The certificate in Forensic Science trains students in the techniques and methods necessary for analyzing physical evidence found at crime scenes. This training, which ranges from problem-solving techniques to the use of technological equipment and software, prepares students to evaluate evidence and communicate scientific results in a medico-legal context. UWM also offers certificates in Forensic Toxicology and Death Investigation for students who are more interested in one of those specializations within the broader field of forensic science.

Successful students in forensic science have a strong interest in chemistry and biology and wish to apply that type of knowledge to criminal investigation. The certificate complements a number of different majors such as microbiology, biochemistry, anthropology, criminal justice, biomedical sciences, biological sciences, and chemistry. It can make students more marketable for jobs in death investigation, crime labs, pathology, and coroner's offices.

Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary program combining courses from criminal justice, biology, chemistry, anthropology, and clinical lab sciences. In addition to their scientific training, forensic scientists must also have strong communication skills in order to explain and justify their results in written reports and oral presentations to police, attorneys, judges and juries.

All three of the forensics certificates - forensic science, forensic toxicology, and death investigation - are jointly offered by the College of Letters & Science, the College of Health Professions and Sciences, and the College of Community Engagement and Professions.

Download our fact sheet to the right to learn more about this certificate.