About the Program

At Utah Valley University (UVU), our FEPAC accredited Forensic Science Program offers students a unique and comprehensive education in the interdisciplinary field of forensic science. With hands-on experience, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, UVU prepares students to excel in various areas of forensic science, including crime scene investigation, forensic DNA analysis, toxicology, medicolegal death investigations and much more.
Our program emphasizes a strong foundation in science, criminal justice, and ethics, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the critical skills needed for success in this ever-evolving field. Students benefit from real-world applications through laboratory work, internships, and collaborative opportunities with law enforcement agencies and forensic professionals.
The Forensic Science Program at UVU stands out for its commitment to producing well-rounded, industry-ready professionals who are equipped to analyze evidence, solve complex problems, and contribute to justice. Whether students are aiming for careers in forensic crime laboratories, crime scene investigations, law enforcement or criminal investigations, UVU provides the knowledge, resources, and support they need to succeed.
Join us at UVU and become part of a program dedicated to making a difference in the world of forensic science.

Policeman talking into his radio

Forensic Science, B.S.

125 Credits to Graduate

The Forensic Laboratory emphasis provides students with a comprehensive science-based undergraduate education, which enables students to enter into a forensic science career. Students learn the necessary technical and theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities of modern forensic techniques.

The Forensic Investigation emphasis provides an interdisciplinary program that prepares students for public, state, and federal careers with needed forensic investigation subject matter expertise and analytical skills.

Forensic Investigation Emphasis, B.S. (Crime Scene Investigations)
Forensic Laboratory Emphasis, B.S. (Criminalistics)

Skulls lined on a table

Forensic Science, A.S.

63 Credits to Graduate

The Associate of Science in Forensic Science (ASFS) is designed to provide a preparatory educational path for students who are seeking acceptance into UVU's Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science (BSFS) degree program. The ASFS enables students to complete the general education requirements while meeting the required lower division course work needed for application to the BSFS degree.

Learn More About Forensic Science

The mission of the Forensic Science academic program is to provide an engaged, multidisciplinary, exceptional forensic science education, which includes scientific research, ethical practices, and real-world experiences, upholding truth and justice within the criminal justice system. 


About Us

Program and Salary Facts

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$59K

Average Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2019

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Ranked by Collegechoice, UVU was rated as one of the top rated Forensic Science programs in the nation.

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UVU is the only college of offer a Forensic Science B.S. in the state.

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Our program is voted one of the most affordable Forensic Science degree programs by UniversityHQ.

Facilities

woman holding a camera taking a picture of a forensic area

Crime Facilities

Our program includes a practical crime scene facility, a dedicated forensic laboratory with state of the art equipment, professors who currently work in the field, and more.


In the crime scene facility students are given the opportunity to create, analyze, and solve “crime.” The forensic laboratory trains students in theoretical and practical principles of chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics, and other principles that are commonly conducted within a crime laboratory.

Learn More

Some courses include:

Trace
Analysis

Death Investigations

Fingerprint Examination

Forensic Photography

Firearms Examination

What they're saying...



The Forensic Science Program at UVU has been so hands on creating the best learning experience. I look forward to every week and seeing what new lab or topic we learn about. The professors and program directors have been so supportive and have the best knowledge!

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Chance Felker

One of my favorite things about our program is the variety of courses. We have a wide selection of courses taught by incredible professors, which allows us to explore many disciplines and provides unique opportunities that aren't available elsewhere. I have enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the specific subjects that interest me, as well as new subjects that I may not have explored otherwise.

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Brendan Campbell

Our forensic science program here at UVU is incredible. All my professors are professionals in the forensic field, so I’m truly learning from some of the very best in the country. The classes are all interesting, informative and relevant, and I can honestly say I’ve genuinely enjoyed taking each forensic class! The forensic science program and the professors within it have made me feel genuinely prepared to enter the field.

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Hannah Hartman

Something I've really loved about the UVU Forensics Program is how hands-on the classes are. We get to actually do the things we are learning about in class. The professors have worked in these fields and share real-life examples of how the topics we are learning about can be used. It has helped me learn so much more than could be learned through just a classroom setting. 

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Kaleen Wilkins

Faculty Spotlight

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"We go beyond just teaching forensic science."

We go beyond just teaching forensic science; we immerse students in real-world experiences that prepare them to become leaders in the forensic field.

The UVU Forensic Science program is committed to providing a rigorous, multidisciplinary education that blends scientific concepts, research, and hands-on experience. Our program is full of dedicated and experienced faculty. Each of our professors have been practitioners in the field, offering students valuable insights and mentorship as they develop both the technical and professional skills to excel. Students have access to high-quality forensic facilities, instrumentation, and curriculum that fully prepare them for careers in forensic science. Our faculty’s passion and commitment to exceptional care and student success is evident. UVU forensic science graduates consistently report feeling well-prepared and confident entering the workforce.

Dr. Elizabeth Chesna, Professor

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