Frequently Asked Questions

Forensic science at BGSU: Be sure to select the correct program when you apply here at BGSU! Many students end up selecting the incorrect major without realizing it.

Who we are not:

• Chemistry with the forensic specialization
• Criminal justice with a forensic investigation specialization

Who we are:  Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science

The trick is to make sure you see our specializations as you will have to pick one to apply!!

• Forensic DNA Analysis
• Forensic Drug Analysis
• Forensic Examination

We are the only “forensic” program affiliated with:

• The Master of Science in Forensic Science
• The Ohio Attorney General’s The Center for the Future of Forensic Science
• The Bureau of Criminal Investigation
• Delta Delta Epsilon
• The labs in Life Sciences (133 & 326)
• The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science to Master of Science in Forensic Science
• FEPAC Accreditation

What’s the difference between the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science Degree with specializations and the other degrees with sub forensic science specializations?

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science (BSFS) Degree is designed to meet the requirements of the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).  The curriculum of the BSFS provides a basic foundation in the scientific and laboratory problem-solving skills necessary for success in a modern forensic laboratory. The program combines rigorous scientific and laboratory training with exposure to the breadth of forensic science disciplines, including forensic science practice, law enforcement, and ethics.  Within the BSFS degree, we offer three  specializations that provide a degree that focusses on specific discipline area within forensic science: e.g. DNA (biology), Drug Analysis (chemistry), Examinations (patterned evidence and trace), with course work required to practice in these areas of forensic science. All faculty in the forensic science program, teaching FSCI coursework, have previous crime laboratory bench experience.   

Are the BGSU Forensic Science programs FEPAC accredited?

The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science (BSFS) is accredited by the Forensic Science Educational Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC).

Do you have to graduate from a FEPAC accredited program to practice as a forensic scientists?

No. We highly recommend students investigate what a FEPAC accredited program offers. You can find more information on the FEPAC website here: https://www.aafs.org/FEPAC

So, who is FEPAC and why should I care?

FEPAC is the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission and is under the umbrella of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Because the BSFS program is accredited we have to follow certain rules and offer certain curriculum to align with the requirements. FEPAC’s mission sums up their function pretty well:  

“The mission of the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) is to maintain and to enhance the quality of forensic science education through a formal evaluation and recognition of college-level academic programs. The primary function of the Commission is to develop and to maintain standards and to administer an accreditation program that recognizes and distinguishes high quality undergraduate and graduate forensic science programs.” https://www.aafs.org/FEPAC

Therefore, although you do not need to go to an accredited program, it is very helpful to make sure you are getting what you need for a career in forensic science.

What are the admissions requirements for the BSFS program?

The admissions requirements for AY 25-26 can be found here.

What if I know I will not be admitted based on the admissions requirements?

We have a pathway to the major! We track all of the students that are interested in forensic science as a major so it is vital that you apply regardless of your interpretation of if you will be admitted or not. Then our office will help you plan out your pathway into the BSFS major.  

I have an additional question- who can I contact?

The best point of contact would be to email bci@bgsu.edu or call the office at 419-372-0224.