Bachelor of Arts (B.S.) in Forensic Science
With a guaranteed $20,000 scholarship, our forensic science major lets you turn your passion for solving crimes into a career that makes an impact.
Forensic Science is a dynamic major that prepares you to apply advanced scientific methods and technology to investigate crimes, analyze evidence and contribute meaningfully to the pursuit of justice.
Forensic Science Degree at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Co-Op/ Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost
School
Accreditation
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The Forensic Science Major
As a forensic science major, you’ll connect the dots between criminology and science, preparing you for a career in crime scene investigations, DNA analysis, evidence technician, laboratory technician, law enforcement and toxicology.
What You'll Study
The Criminal Justice System
Criminology
Mental Health
Cybercrime
Rural Crime
Chemistry
Skills You'll Learn
Forensic Science Courses You'll Take
The Criminal justice system
CRM 1100
This course provides an overview of the US Criminal justice system, with a focus on this case processing of adults. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the historical development of the criminal justice system, how police, courts and the correctional system operate.
Society and law
CRM 3000
The larger goal of this course is to gain an understanding of the significant relationship which law plays in our everyday lives and its role in society. Throughout the course, we will address several questions: How, when, and why do laws arise? How do legal systems reflect the values of the society?
forensic criminal investigation
CRM 3700
Students examine the methods, strategies, objectives and processes employed by criminal justice practitioners through mock investigations and trials. Students will also consider the ethical obligations that those who are vested with the public trust undertake as criminal investigators.
See All Courses & Options Available to Forensic Science Majors
Forensic Science Major Requirements
To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=20&poid=3413&returnto=532.Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Wondering If You Should Major in Forensic Science or Criminology and Criminal Justice? Learn More about the Differences Below.
Forensic Science | Criminology and Criminal Justice |
|---|---|
Degree Overview A degree in forensic science trains you to uncover the truth through physical evidence and lab analysis through the application of biology, chemistry and physical sciences to analyze evidence for criminal investigations. | Degree Overview A degree in criminology and criminal justice prepares you to understand, prevent and respond to crime through law, policy and human behavior. Courses focus on understanding crime, law, justice systems and society’s response to criminal behavior. |
Courses You May Take:
| Courses You May Take:
|
Career Path Careers for forensic scientists are science-driven and lab-focused. Professionals in forensic science have a mind for scientific reason and microscopic level attention to detail. | Career Path Criminology and criminal justice professionals will have careers that are people-centered and generally tend to focus more on policy creation and/or the enforcement of law. |
Why Choose the Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Science?
Merrimack’s Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Science provides students with a robust curriculum, strong academics, hands-on training and career-focused support.
INTERDISCIPLINARY, CAREER-FOCUSED CURRICULUM
The Forensic Science major is a combined major—merging criminology, criminal justice and natural sciences (especially chemistry and biology). That means you’re not just learning the science behind forensic techniques but also how the legal and investigative systems use that science.
STRONG SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Students receive a strong academic and practical background in chemistry, forensic criminal investigation, crime scene analysis and other lab based classes.
EXTENSIVE HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
The Forensic Science major emphasizes hands-on learning, with most students participating in co-ops at local police departments, state crime labs and legal offices. These opportunities allow you to get experience in the field before you graduate with your degree.
Career Outlook: Where Can a Forensic Science Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
95% of the undergraduate class of 2024 in the School of Education and Social Policy were employed full time, part time, participating in a service program, U.S. Armed Forces or enrolled in a program of continuing education at graduation.
Experiential Learning
100% of the class of 2023 participated in an experiential learning opportunity while enrolled in their undergraduate bachelor’s program.
Graduate School
Northeastern University, Ottawa University, Vanderbilt University and Merrimack are just some of the graduate programs SESP graduates are attending.
Jobs with a Forensic Science Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be prepared to work in the fields of social work, criminal investigations, law enforcement, probation or loss prevention. Potential career paths for forensic science majors upon graduation include:
- Forensic Scientist
- Probation Officer
- Forensic-science technician
- Forensic Psychologist
- Private Investigator
- Security specialist
Beyond the Classroom
Student Life
You’ll have endless opportunities to find your fit, get involved and pursue what makes you happy—all while making lifelong friends (and memories!).
Explore your passions alongside others with similar interests, whether that means a cappella singing or outdoor adventuring.
- 80+ student organizations
- Division I Athletics, club and intramural sports
- Beloved traditions like Homecoming, Block Party and Spring Concert
- Fraternities and sororities
Internships & Co-Ops
Our students gain valuable work experience and connections with leading companies through guaranteed internships and the Warriors at Work co-op program. Recent placements include:
- Interning with Homeland Security Investigations, shadowing special agents
- Interning at Delta Tech-Ops, working in components engineering
- Working as a tax intern at Baker Tilly
Research with Faculty
With access to cutting-edge tools, undergraduate students can collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to presentations and publications.
- Explore the complexities of the human mind in a state-of-the-art psychology lab.
- Understand how inflammation affects immune cell aging in our Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility.
- Build fully functional battle bots for competitions.
Study Abroad
Global Merrimack provides transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Our 30+ study abroad programs include semesters abroad, faculty-led trips and international internships.
- Explore and study in the Dominican Republic or Iceland.
- Immerse yourself in cities like Dublin, Madrid or Rome.
- Experience a semester at sea or intern in vibrant cities like London or Paris.
Service Learning
Community and service are at the heart of our Augustinian mission.
Over 1,000 students work together to engage in hands-on service learning projects each year, supporting our communities and those in need.
- Participate in our campus-wide Mack Gives Back volunteer days.
- Spend your winter, spring, or summer break on an immersive SEND trip in the U.S. or abroad, helping those in need.
- Tutor students in nearby school districts.
See for Yourself
Programs Related to the Forensic Science Major
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!
Upcoming Events
Info Session & Campus Tour
Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2026)
- Most Innovative Schools (#8)
- Regional Universities North (#38)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#20)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#16)
- Best Value Schools (#52)
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