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Lasell University

Forensic Science

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The Forensic Science degree program prepares students for careers in crime scene investigations, crime laboratories, trace evidence examination, and commercial laboratories. Students learn the application of science to law.

Lasell offers the only FEPAC accredited Forensic Science bachelor's degree program in Massachusetts and is one of only two programs in New England. FEPAC accreditation is a prestigious distinction held by only 31 institutions nationwide. While the program remains fully FEPAC accredited, as of September 6, 2024 it is currently on probation. Under the leadership of Program Chair Beth Saucier Goodspeed, a seasoned professional with 24 years of experience, the program continues to thrive and anticipates regaining full FEPAC accreditation.

Students take a wide range of courses in both the traditional sciences and criminal justice. Applied coursework is focused on conducting criminal investigations, quality assurance, collection and preservation of evidence, and analysis of evidence.

Program Features

  • Coursework involves the use of case studies, field experiences, and mock crime scene scenarios as a means of using our connected learning philosophy to reinforce theory and concepts learned in the classroom.

  • The program offers unique internship experiences at a variety of sites, a research-based Capstone course, and courses that exemplify Lasell’s unique Connected Learning environment, facilitated by faculty with noted industry and academic experience. 

  • Lasell's Forensic Science major has earned FEPAC accreditation, one of only 31 bachelor's programs with this accreditation.

What You'll Learn

From your first day, you’ll take courses in your major and advance towards graduation with a yearly plan. Not sure what classes to take? We’ll help you create the perfect plan. 

Courses and Sample 4-Year Plan

This example four-year plan is provided as a broad framework that you can follow in order to complete your degree within four years. Be sure to always consult your academic advisor before registering for classes.

MATH203
Precalculus

This course prepares students for the study of calculus, physics and other courses requiring precalculus skills. Included is solving systems of equations, the analysis and graphing of linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational functions, the unit circle, and triangle (right and non-right) trigonometry. Prerequisite: MATH 106 with a grade of C or better or demonstrated competency through placement testing. Restrictions: not open to students who have completed 205, 206, or any 300 level mathematics course successfully.

In this course, students gain understanding of and confidence in strategies for effective writing by composing and reading in a variety of genres. The course emphasizes writing as a process and focuses on the rhetorical choices writers make. Students engage critically with sources by examining how genre, context, purpose, credibility, and bias work together to create meaning and impact audiences. Students who choose to take Writing I Workshop are provided with time during class to work on their writing while the instructor and a writing tutor are present to provide assistance. Students must earn a “C” or higher in order to pass this course

The First Year Seminar (FYS) is part of the Core Curriculum and a requirement for all incoming first year students and transfer students with fewer than 15 credits. The First Year Seminar is a theme-based inquiry course that engages students in a specific area of interest while providing support for a smooth transition into the Lasell University community and the Connected Learning philosophy. Through studying an academic topic, students develop and apply core intellectual skills and receive an introduction to the core knowledge perspectives. At the same time, students connect to the experiences and people that make up the Lasell University Community. Course outcomes are accomplished through engaging activities including reading, writing, class discussions, presentations, team projects, field trips, and exploration of campus resources. Civic engagement and service-learning activities are often part of this course as is participation in the Connected Learning Symposium. Through the seminar, students develop close ties with faculty and peer mentors who serve as advocates for first year students' academic success. Past course titles have included: The Immigrant Experience, Fashion & Film of the 20th Century, The Social History of Rock & Roll, Exploring Cultures & Languages, The Spark of Creativity, Women and Sports, and Latin America: Food And Traditions. This requirement may be fulfilled by taking either FYS103 or HON101 (for students enrolled in the Honors Program).

The course begins with a study of measurement and matter. An introduction to atomic theory follows. Mass relationships in chemical reactions are introduced, followed by the study of chemical reactions in aqueous solutions. The gas laws are then covered, followed by an introduction to thermodynamics. Concepts of chemical bonding are studied along with periodic relationships among the elements. Quantum theory is used to explain the electronic structure of atoms. Laboratory experiments complement the material covered in lecture. The laboratory experiments are designed to introduce methods, materials, and equipment of chemistry as well as to illustrate important chemical principles. Prerequisite: MATH203 or higher. Corequisite: CHEM203L and CHEM203R.

This course is an overview of the history, philosophy, ethics, and legal issues related to the criminal justice system. The course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, focusing on critical decisions with an emphasis on contemporary issues, controversies, and trends.

This second half of this two-semester sequence explores areas of solution chemistry, acid/base chemistry, chemical kinetics and physical chemistry, nuclear, and organic chemistry. Physical properties of solutions are explained including vapor pressure lowering, boiling point elevation, freezing point depression and osmotic pressure. The effects of chemical kinetics on reactions are covered. Chemical equilibrium, acid and base equilibrium, and solubility equilibrium are introduced. Laboratory experiments complement the material covered in lecture. The laboratory experiments are designed to introduce methods, materials, and equipment of chemistry as well as to illustrate important chemical principles. Prerequisite: MATH106 with a grade of C or better & CHEM203. Corequisite: CHEM204L and CHEM204R.

This course is a continuation of Writing I and focuses on research and public writing. Theme-based courses provide students with lenses to explore issues of interest and develop their reading, research, and writing skills. Students work with a topic of their choice, broadly based on the course theme. Assignments build upon each other, lead up to a researched position paper, and culminate in a public piece. Students who choose to take Writing II Workshop are provided with time during class to work on their writing while the instructor and a writing tutor are present to provide assistance. Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in order to pass this course. Prerequisite: WRT 101

Equity & Intersectionality(KP)

KP (Knowledge Perspective) Course

MATH205
Calculus I

This course is an introduction to limits, continuity, and methods of differentiation. Application to problems in business management and physical science is emphasized. Prerequisite: MATH 203 with a grade of C or better or demonstrated competency through placement testing. Restrictions: not open to students who have completed MATH 206, or any 300 level mathematics courses.

This is the first semester of a one-year course that surveys the field of physics at a non-calcu­lus level. Topics include motion in one and two dimensions, force, uniform circular motion, work and energy, and statics of rigid bodies. The laws of thermodynamics are introduced. Laboratory experiments are conducted to complement the material covered in lecture. Prerequisite: MATH 203 or equivalent with a grade of C or better. Corequisite: PHYS111L, PHYS111R.

This course is focused on the structure and chemistry of organic compounds. Topics include thermodynamics, resonance, reaction mechanisms of organic functional groups and stereochemistry. The course meets for three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week. Prerequisite: C- or better in CHEM204. Corequisite CHEM303L

This Knowledge Perspective course will provide students with the opportunity to interpret and analyze the complex interrelationships and inequities in human societies in a global historical context. Emphasizing the interrelatedness and mutuality of influence between East and West, we examine questions of exclusiveness, intolerance, and cooperation. Prerequisite: ENG101 with a C or better

This course provides an introduction to the modern methods used in the detection, investigation, and solution of crimes. Practical analysis of evidence such as: fingerprints and other impressions, ballistics, glass, hair, handwriting and document examination, and drug analysis are studied. Prerequisite: CJ 101 or LS 101.

This is a continuation of PHYS111. Topics include waves motion, electric potential, electric current, resistance, capacitance, and magnetism. Geometrical and wave optics are introduced. Atomic and quantum theory are also included. Laboratory experiments are conducted to com­plement the material covered in lecture. Prerequisite: PHYS 111 with a C or better. Corequisite: PHYS112L, PHYS112R.

The second half of a two-semester sequence. Topics include synthetic applications of organic reactions, delocalization and aromaticity. Principles and application of instrumental methods for organic structure determination will be studied in the laboratory. Prerequisite: C- or better in CHEM303. Corequisite CHEM304L

In this project-based course, students explore a social or intellectual problem using at least two knowledge perspectives. Faculty and students follow a collaborative process of exploration, discussion, and problem solving that integrates knowledge perspectives and core intellectual skills.

FSCI309
Forensic Science II

This lecture and laboratory will introduce various methodologies and applications used in forensic science. Topics include organic and inorganic chemical analyses of physical evidence, principles of serology and DNA analysis, an introduction to quality assurance and quality control concepts, principles and techniques for forensic toxicology, fire debris and explosive examinations. Techniques for the analysis of inks, dyes, polymers and colors will be introduced. Prerequisites: CJ205, CHEM304. Corequisite: FSCI309L.

This is an introductory course in descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics include: data analysis, and graphical methods of describing data, measures of central tendency and variability, probability, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression analysis. Prerequisites: MATH 106 with a grade of C or better or demonstrated competency through placement testing and ENG 102.

This course will address the interaction between the lives we lead and the application of traditional (and some nontraditional) ethical theories and principles to important decision points in our lives. Students will take on real-life ethical problems and dilemmas for each class; each student will be responsible for presenting a number of issues, as well as for guiding the discussion of those issues in class. The problems we address will largely span a lifetime of experiences and concerns. Students will also write several papers that evaluate formal arguments, using standard tools of critical thinking and philosophy. The course is discussion based, so a willingness to read carefully, to think critically, and to engage in classroom presentations and discussions is essential. Prerequisite: Junior standing, MDSC203 & ENG102.

This lecture and laboratory introduces the microbial world and the laboratory techniques required for its study. Topics include the basic characteristics of fungi, algae, bacteria, and viruses. Topics and applications that relate to humans are emphasized. Prerequisite: BIO101. Corequisite: BIO211L

Choose an Elective or Minor course

In this course, contemporary criminological theories are analyzed and evaluated with an emphasis on the social construction of crime, criminal offending, and victimization. Theories of crime are distinguished from theories of criminality. Assessments of theoretical advances, including theory integration and general theories of crime are examined. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: CJ 101, LS 101, PSYC 101, or SOC 101

This course examines the fundamentals of criminal investigation including scientific aids, interviews, interrogations, collection and preservation of evidence, methods of surveillance, follow-up and case preparation. Prerequisite: CJ 101 or LS 101.

This lecture and laboratory will present the basic principles of molecular biology. Topics include nucleic acid-protein interactions, the Central Dogma, gene regulation, and genetic evolution. The laboratory experiments are designed to introduce the methodology and research used in molecular biology, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, Western Blot, and gel electrophoresis. Prerequisite: BIO101 Corequisite: BIO209L

This lecture and laboratory introduces the evaluation of biological evidence using forensic DNA methodologies to aid criminal investigations. Topics include the isolation of DNA from cells, techniques for DNA quantitation, electrophoretic separation, data analysis, statistical analysis, and report writing. Pre-requisites: BIO209 and BIO211. Corequisite: FSCI413L.

CJ316
Criminal Procedure

Criminal procedure refers to the process whereby the criminal law is enforced. Major topics to be covered in this course include: the exclusionary rule, search and seizure, identification, interrogation, trial rights, sentencing, and due process. Special emphasis is placed upon how the rules of procedure affect the components of the criminal justice system. Prerequisite: CJ 101 or LS 101.

This lecture and laboratory will focus on principles related to the inheritance of traits regulated by genes. The chemical and physical nature of chromosomes and genes and gene expression and regulation will be covered. Systems in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms exemplifying Mendelian and modern molecular genetic principles will be discussed. Prerequisite: BIO101. Corequisite: BIO310L

This lecture and laboratory introduces students to the field of forensic microscopy and the various types of microscopes in forensic analysis such as compound, comparison, and polarizing light microscopes. Trace evidence, including hair, soil, glass, paint, and gunshot residue will be analyzed. Additional topics include the preparation of case files to develop an understanding of evidence control, experimental protocols, reporting results, and drawing conclusions. Pre-requisites: BIO101, FSCI205, and CHEM 204. Corequisite: FSCI411L.

Choose an Elective or Minor course

Choose an Elective or Minor course

This course provides specialized topics in forensic science in order to address current disciplinary trends including evidence identification and processing, quality assurance, courtroom testimony, ethics, and professional practice. Using a problem-based learning model, students will engage in collaborative work, facilitated by faculty, to review cases based on current issues. Prerequisite: Senior standing in Forensic Science Program.

This course provides students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge that they have acquired in the program and to demonstrate their level of skill. The senior capstone projects are applied research projects that include requirements of research literature, study of cases/or forensic science, a written report and an oral presentation of the project. The focus of this course is to provide students with realistic case experiences while being mentored by a faculty member. Prerequisite: Senior standing in Applied Forensic Science Program.

This is an off-campus experience in an appropriate Forensics Science work-setting that offers students an opportunity to apply concepts, theories, and practices learned in the classroom in a supervised setting. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 150 hours of field experience in addition to course assignments. Prerequisite: Permission of Program Chair, Junior standing, FSCI309

This course is an in-depth study of biochemical substances and their reaction in the body with major emphasis placed on metabolism at the cellular level and examined in the tissues of the various organs where these reactions occur. Correlation of biochemical processes underlying pathologic conditions are made whenever practical. Prerequisite: CHEM 204

This example four-year plan is provided as a broad framework that you can follow in order to complete your degree within four years. 

Forensic Science Student Outcomes

  • 75% of students who started the Forensic Science program in Fall 2022 cohort were retained into their Sophomore year.
  • 100% of students who started the Forensic Science program in the 2020 cohort graduated within 4 years. 

Forensic Science Learning Outcomes

  • Interact professionally and educate clients, peers, colleagues and law enforcement personnel.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive level of knowledge in the area of forensic biology, forensic chemistry, crime scene investigations, and forensic DNA analysis.
  • Demonstrate the use of instrumentation commonly encountered in forensic analysis and techniques used in processing crime scenes, including documentation, and collection, and preservation of physical evidence.
  • Use independent decision making and critical thinking to determine the best procedures for the analysis of diverse physical evidence items.

For a complete list of courses and learning outcomes, view the Academic Catalog >>

Career Outlook

Students are prepared for careers in crime scene investigations, crime laboratories, trace evidence examination, and commercial laboratories or graduate studies in areas such as forensic science, chemistry, biology, molecular biology, and other science-based areas.

Since 2020, our students have interned with:

  • Franklin County Coroner's Office - Forensic Science Center
  • Woonsocket Police Department - Criminal Investigations Division
  • Waterbury Police Department - Forensics Division
  • Watertown Fire Marchall - Arson Investigations
  • Clinical Science Laboratories - Toxicology Department
  • Lasell University - Laboratory Support 
  • Office of the Chief Medical Examiner - Legal Department
  • Batavia Biosciences - Vaccine Development 
    Blueprint Medicinals - Vaccine Development
  • University of Toronto - Forensic Genetics Department
  • Yale School of Medicine - Psychology Department
  • Brigham & Women's Channing Lab - Genetics Research
  • Massachusetts's State Police Crime Laboratory - Quality Assurance

Our alumni work or have worked for:

  • Clinical Sciences Laboratory - Toxicology Technician 
  • American Red Cross - Quality Control Chemist 
  • Hudson Public Schools - Laboratory Technician 
  • Dermatologist Assistant - Massachusetts's Dermatology Associates
  • Massachusetts's State Police Crime Lab - Toxicologist 
  • Massachusetts's State Police Crime Lab - Laboratory Technician
  • BODE Technologies - Forensic DNA Analyst
  • Smithers Cannabis Testing - Associate Chemist
  • UMass Memorial Medical Center - Laboratory Technician 
  • Lahey Hospital - Laboratory Technician
  • Newton-Wellsley Hospital - Laboratory Technician 
  • Essex Police Department - State Trooper
  • Sample Management Technician - Boston Analytical
  • Global Security Operations - Akamai Technologies 
  • Office of the Chief Medical Examiner - Medical Examiner Assistant

Graduate schools attended by Forensic Science graduates:

  • University of Central Florida 
  • Lasell University 
  • Indiana University 
  • Boston University 

Mission Statement
The mission of the Forensic Science Program is to immerse students in a FEPAC accreditation-based curriculum that provides a comprehensive understanding of forensic science (forensic biology, forensic chemistry, crime scene investigations, and forensic DNA analysis) to address the multi-disciplinary nature of the field of forensic science.

The program offers unique internship experiences at a variety of sites, a research-based Capstone course, and courses that exemplify Lasell’s unique Connected Learning environment, facilitated by faculty with noted industry and academic experience.

Graduates of the program are well positioned to pursue graduate studies (forensic science, chemistry, biology, molecular biology and other science-based professions) or professional employment. The goal of the program is to produce well-educated and highly skilled professionals for the dynamic and diverse field of forensic science through engagement in experiential learning and scholarly work.

Those interested in applying to the forensic science program should note: Applicants who are interested in forensic science careers should be aware that background checks similar to those required for law enforcement officers are likely to be a condition of employment.


Beyond the Classroom
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