Forensic Science

Experience Hands-On Laboratories and Real Crime Scene Simulations

Our forensic science degree program will prepare you for work in most sections of the forensic laboratory. You'll be immersed in the world of drugs, arson, toxicology, death investigations and DNA evidence.

Additionally, forensic science majors at Point Park University have the unique opportunity to investigate mock crime scenes in our crime scene investigation house — located right on campus.

You'll also have the opportunity to participate in real-world internships. For example, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office is just a short walk away.

If you like applying chemistry, physics, biology and math to problems related to legal situations, then our forensic science degree program may be right for you.

Pictured is Assistant Professor Edward Strimlan, M.D., conducting a mock crime scene investigation with forensic science students in Schenley Park. | Photo by Andy Weier — Assistant Professor Edward Strimlan, M.D., conducts a mock crime scene investigation with forensic science students in Schenley Park.

Courses & Topics

Coursework is not for the faint of heart and includes an exploration of accidental deaths and suicide, crime scene photography, forensic autopsy photography, gunshot wounds, stab wounds, time of death and hands-on labs with collecting of trace evidence like hair, fiber, glass and then processing evidence found at the scene.

Development of the Death Investigation System
Forensic Photography
Accident/Suicide Death Investigation
Natural Death Investigation and the Ethics of Forensic Science
Forensic Real Crime Scene Investigation/Crime House
Criminalistics
Anatomy and Physiology
Criminal Evidence

Minor in Forensic Science

Broaden your science and law enforcement skillsets by minoring in Forensic Science at Point Park, a program especially beneficial for students majoring in criminal justice, legal studies, forensic psychology, intelligence and national security or biological sciences. Point Park's 18-credit minor includes the following courses:

Introduction to Criminal Justice
Development of the Death Investigation System
Forensic Evidence I and II
Accident/Suicide Death Investigation
Ethics in Forensic Science

Career Options

With a forensic science degree, you will have the option to pursue various career opportunities in areas such as:

Pathology/Medical Examination
Ballistics
Entomology
Physical/Forensic Anthropology
Investigations
Odontology
Toxicology
Criminalistics

Faculty bring industry experience and expertise to the classroom

Learn from faculty who have worked directly in the forensic science field and are willing to share their expertise and experience with students.

Meet the faculty

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

Edward Strimlan, M.D.

Former chief forensic investigator for Allegheny County’s Office of the Medical Examiner
Conducted more than 2,000 death scene investigations
Shares hundreds of real stories with his students

News & Features

Get Career-Ready with: Hannah Lanham '24, Forensic Science Major

Friday, October 7, 2022 "At Point Park, my professors have hands-on experience in their field of study. They provide real-world examples to help us make meaningful connections to key concepts. I was drawn to Point Park for the internship opportunities offered, as well as the high percentage of students who get a job directly after graduation."

Ocean City Police Officers Share Summer Opportunities with Criminal Justice and Forensic Science Students

Friday, November 5, 2021 Students in several criminal justice and forensic science classes learned about summer internship and job opportunities available at the Ocean City Police Department as Officers Justin Koser and Yovanny Ramirez visited Point Park University's campus to discuss seasonal openings for police officers, public safety aids and 911 communication operators.

Raniah Al Bayati '20

Wednesday, November 20, 2019 Meet Raniah Al Bayati, a forensic science major, minoring in biology and chemistry, and an Alpha Chi Honor Society member and future dentist.