Department of Natural Sciences
Explore The Forensic Science Program
(Department of Natural Sciences (asurams.edu))
Our Mission
The Bachelor of Science degree program in Forensic Science at Albany State University aims to provide students with an understanding of the scientific knowledge, and practice of forensic science, and prepare students for work in forensic science laboratories, crime scene investigation, and related areas.
We aim to continually improve the program's quality and technological innovation and promote integrity. Career advancement. And understanding forensic science practices are cornerstone of our mission
The program is committed to advancing the educational needs of students and working professionals. The program is aligned with and works towards the overall university mission. The Forensic Science program provides the relevant educational needs based on labor market trends in forensic science and science in general for the citizens in Georgia, the United States of America, and beyond.
Learning Goals
- The Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Forensic Science aims to prepare students to be high-quality forensic professionals. It does this by providing them with the education and experiences needed for professional careers in forensic sciences.
- To offer a nationally recognized Forensic Science degree program combining state-of-the-art educational technology with innovative pedagogy.
- To conduct research with students and professionals in other universities and other institutions to advance knowledge and provide students with skills in using instruments and scientific techniques useful in forensic science.
Objectives
The Forensic Science program at ASU objectives that are related to its mission and goals are:
- Graduates will understand and be able to perform classification of physical evidence at a crime scene
- To familiarize students with skills in the packing, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence
- For students to understand and be able to write skilled crime scene reconstruction reports.
- Be able to read and interpret papers in the primary literature
- Be able to work collaboratively with others
- Be able to present scientific information in visual, oral, and written formats
- Be aware of major scientific and ethical issues in Forensic Science
- To produce graduates in Forensic Science who may go directly into employment in the many laboratories and organizations in the field of Forensic Science, such as the FBI, GBI, other state crime laboratories, and local and other federal organizations.
- To produce graduates who have the capabilities needed to enter Ph. D and MS programs in other institutions
- The ASU forensic science program will become a source of knowledge for nearby criminalistics laboratories and law enforcement agencies
Class 2024 Feedback
At Albany State University, our Forensic Science Program is rooted in the core values of our university. We are committed to educating the next generation of forensic scientists, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to analyze crime scenes, reconstruct events, and provide expert testimony in court.
With over 90% student satisfaction, our program offers a unique learning experience. State-of-the-art labs and experienced faculty provide hands-on opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making skills.
Our students gain real-world experience through internships, research projects, and field trips to agencies like the ATF, Valdosta Crime Lab, and medical examiner offices. These opportunities foster strong professional networks and prepare our graduates for successful careers in forensic science.
Testimonials
Some Testimonies
The overall experience was very educational and it really gave an insight on a medical
examiner, Forensic Technician, and even Investigators almost day to day work life.
This trip further solidifies that I am on a good path for my career goals and I do
believe that for students in Forensics and other sciences and that wants to get into
death investigations, autopsies, pathology, etc should experience this at least once.”
- Deauvion Hawkins, Forensic Science B.S./post-grad degree
Being that this was my first time going to the Medical Examiner’s office and seeing a live autopsy, I thought the trip went well. I was nervous about how I would react to the smell and process of an autopsy, but I didn’t have any problems. I enjoyed how interactive the field trip was and how friendly the team was. While being a pathologist is not the field of forensics that I would pursue, I recognize and respect those who do. This trip has motivated me to keep moving forward and working towards my dreams.” Kareena Karim-Manning, Forensic Science major
My favorite part of the field trip was seeing the autopsies being performed and also knowing the stories of each of the body’s. I was also able to get some information regarding shadowing there for the summer of 2025. The staff were professional and nice, they showed us around and allowed us to ask all of the questions we needed to. - Audreanna Brown, Forensic Science major
Student Survey
Post-Graduation Survey
Class 2023 Feedback
Testimonials
A native of Kingston, Jamaica, and a Spring 2023 Forensic science graduate, poised
to make her mark in the field with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). Raised
in a culturally rich environment, Jada developed a profound respect for justice, inspiring
her pursuit of forensic science. With a passion for unraveling mysteries and a solid
academic background, Jada excelled in her studies, specializing in crime scene investigation.
Her internship with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation showcased her dedication and
attention to detail. Ms. Internship led to her full time employment with the GBI.
As Jada embarks on her career, she looks forward to contributing her analytical skills
to solve complex cases and uphold the principles of justice. Jada Smith.
For my final semester as a forensics student at Albany State University, I was able
to do my internship with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. I worked in one of their
15 regional offices in Americus, Georgia. The office consists of a Special Agent in
Charge, an Assistant Special Agent in Charge, a Crime Scene Specialist, and several
Special Agents. The agents perform various investigative functions such as interviews
and search warrants, while the crime scene specialist, also a Special Agent, performs
crime scene examinations and evidence processing. This internship is a great way to
see how the GBI works daily. Overall, this internship has been an incredible experience.
Michelle Taylor.
“I Interned at the Dougherty County Coroner's office, under tutelage of the county
Coroner- Mr. Michael Fowler. During my internship, I worked in the office and, most
times, at the crime scene; I have worked over 5 cases: 3 of these cases being homicides
and 2 being natural deaths. I aided Mr. Fowler in establishing the Time of Death,
Victim Identity, and Various stages of death for reporting and documentation purposes.
The internship prepared me for my future in crime scene investigation. Kayla N Hoey.
I am currently an intern for the Dougherty County Coroner’s Office where I get to
learn about the process of what happens after a person has passed away, get first-hand
experience in the field, and gain insight into the many other options I have for careers
within my field of study. At the Coroner’s Office, a normal day consists of filling
out Coroner’s Reports based on medical records, and other forms of documentation so
that the deceased has been placed in the system for the coroner to review and sign
off on for further processing of the case. I also get the opportunity to go to scenes
after a crime has occurred alongside first responders, coroners, crime scene investigators,
and other personnel in the field. Khalia Johnson.
Enrollment and Graduation Rate
The exit examination is required for graduation from the program, the pass score for the exit exam was 70%.
Class 2021 Feedback
Aniyah Green
Aniyah Greene is a Fall 2021 graduate from Philadelphia, PA. While studying Forensic
Science, she was involved in multiple on campus organizations. For example, Ms. Greene
served as the Vice President for the Forensic Science club. She also served as a general
member for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. According
to Ms. Greene; “she credits the Forensic Science program for allowing her to gain
connections with many prestigious individuals within the field, as well as amazing
internship opportunities, and excellent hands-on learning.” Ms. Greene hopes to attend
a medical school to achieve her dreams of becoming a Medical Examiner
Evan Suber
According to Evan Suber- a member of Forensic Science Club and DDE International Honor
Society of the Forensic Science, “The Forensic Science Program here at Albany State
University is a good program that prepares you for the real world forensic science
activities with hands-on laboratory practice of different techniques in crime scene,
DNA analysis, drug chemistry and toxicology. For me, I really enjoyed the opportunities
to interact with various forensic experts in the field, networking and DNA analysis
labs.” She will be attending graduate school in spring of 2022.
Enrollment and Graduation Rate
EXIT EXAMINATIONS
A total of 18 students took the exit examination during the year (spring and fall 2021), the average score was 75.9%, and the highest and lowest scores were 91% and 69%. The pass score for the exit exam was 70%.