The Eberly College of Arts and Sciences offers a forensic and investigative science (FIS) minor, with courses offered both online and on campus. The minor provides students with a broad-based understanding of the fundamentals of forensic science. The minor recognizes the growing national interest in forensic science by introducing students to the technical and legal aspects of the field.
The minor adds perspective and edge that can open the door to many careers. Students have the opportunity to experience basic issues and applications within the context of forensic science.
The convenience of online classes makes it easy for the working professional or students attending divisional campuses; traditional classes cater to students on the main campus.
The forensic and investigative science minor courses can benefit students in a variety of academic disciplines, including criminal justice, political science, psychology, sociology, and history.
The minor requires 5 courses for a total of 15 credit hours.
Course Requirements:
| A student must earn a C- or better in each course counted toward the minor. | ||
| Core Courses: | 9 | |
| FIS 201 | Introduction to Forensic Identification | |
| FIS 202 | Crime Scene Investigation Overview | |
| FIS 485 | Professional Ethics in Forensic Science | |
| Upper-Division Electives: | 6 | |
| Select two courses: | ||
| * FIS 305 | Biological Evidence | |
| FIS 306 | Expert Testimony Perspectives | |
| FIS 311 | Fingerprint Science |
|
| FIS 320 | Science and Culture of Illicit Drugs | |
| FIS 330 | Principles of Forensic Photography | |
| FIS 380 | Social Relations of Forensic and Law Professionals | |
| * FIS 404 | Law and Evidence | |
| * FIS 407 | Gravesite Forensics | |
| * FIS 480 | Forensic Quality Assurance | |
| Total Hours | 15 | |
*Major required courses; FIS majors are given priority registration. Courses open to minors if seats are available after that time.
The Forensic and Investigative Science minor is affiliated with the Eberly College
of Arts and Sciences’ commitment to fostering and assessing students’ written,
verbal, visual, and mediated communication skills across their disciplinary coursework.
Students completing the FIS minor complete a minimum of four
SpeakWrite Certified Courses
TM
within the minor.
The FIS minor currently enrolls approximately 300 students representing over 30 majors, 25 states, and 4 countries!
To learn more about the minor and the requirements, visit the
FIS Minor undergraduate catalog page.
For additional information contact FIS Minor Coordinator, Robin Bowen at Robin.Bowen@mail.wvu.edu.