Forensic Science Degree
Enroll in the only four-year bachelor's degree in Forensic Science offered by a public university in North Dakota and Minnesota.
Forensic science offers some of today’s most fascinating careers. You’ll immerse yourself in the forensic science laboratory and learn to apply science to a range of legal issues.
- Program type:
- Major
- Format:
- On Campus
- Est. time to complete:
- 4 years
- Credit hours:
- 120
Why choose UND for your Forensic Science degree?
Why earn your Forensic Science degree at UND?
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Attend annual meetings of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.
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Join the Forensic Science Club to participate in social gatherings, presentations and demonstrations for local high schools.
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Broaden your forensic science horizon and engage with American Academy of Forensic Sciences scientists, practitioners and award winners.
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Let our team of academic advisors help you plan your major. You'll also have access to personalized software to keep you on track to graduate in four years.
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Learn in a state-of-the-art Forensic Science lab, designed to mirror real-world professional crime labs.
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Study at the only four-year bachelor's degree program offered by a public university in Forensic Science in North Dakota and Minnesota.
Career Opportunities with a B.S. in Forensic Science
Courses You'll Take
Alumni Spotlight
Graduates of UND’s Forensic Science program are making their mark, serving in leadership and expert roles across state and national crime labs.
"The faculty in this program strive to see their students thrive in forensic science through encouraging student-lead research projects, touring crime labs, participating in training boot camps, and gaining leadership experience as teaching assistants, just to name a few. While my time in the program was short, I’ve gained lifelong relationships that I will carry with me throughout my career as a DNA analyst. If you are looking at studying forensic science, I would highly recommend attending this program!”
-Malia Wellens, DNA Technologist at Bode Technology, Lorton, Virginia
"What makes the Forensic Science program at UND exceptional is the people. The professors are dedicated to their work and supportive of their students. Dr. Iancu has made a point of networking across the university and beyond to ensure that every student has a chance to succeed in their academics and future career. I am truly grateful for their mentorship."
Yuliet Monatukwa, M.Sc.
"The courses in the Forensic Science Program at UND provided exceptional learning and networking opportunities through hands-on coursework and an incredibly supportive faculty. The professors fostered a collaborative learning environment while covering relevant, real-world scenarios. From crime scene photography to giving expert witness testimony in mock trial scenarios, the Forensic Science Program presented me with unique and in-demand skills that I carry with me beyond graduation."
-Morgan Kram - J.D. Candidate | 2028, University of North Dakota School of Law
“My four years in Dr. Iancu’s program allowed me to explore the field and gain hands-on experience with the never-ending FS electives. The enthusiasm each professor gave in class made me realize how much I wanted to be a part of the forensic science community. This program is perfect for those wanting to learn all they can while setting their future up for success.”
-Piper O’Dell - Forensic Scientist Trainee Missouri State Highway Patrol, Crime Lab Division
Leader in Forensic Science
In high school, the dream of studying forensic science led Nicolette Ras to the program at UND, but the professors and hands-on classes have inspired her to apply for medical school and get a job in the medical examiners office.
Frequently Asked Questions
UND offers the only four-year public B.S. in Forensic Science in North Dakota and Minnesota. Our program is distinguished by its heavy emphasis on hands-on lab work (80% of class time) and close ties with the Crime Lab of North Dakota, North Dakota Attorney General's Office, and North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, ensuring you learn the most current techniques.
Yes, we offer three specialized sub-plans: Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry and Crime Scene Investigation. This allows you to tailor your education to your specific career interests.
Absolutely. The rigorous science curriculum provides an excellent foundation for medical school, especially for those interested in forensic pathology or other medically focused specialties. In addition, the program’s strong coursework in biology, chemistry, and laboratory methods makes it a great option for students considering advanced study in other science fields or pursuing graduate programs in areas such as biomedical sciences, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, or related STEM disciplines.
Our labs are designed to replicate real-world professional crime laboratories. You will work with the same state-of-the-art equipment and sophisticated scientific instruments used by forensic scientists in the field today.
While our program does not currently offer formal internships, students benefit from strong collaborative relationships with the ND State Crime Lab, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. These partnerships allow us to provide valuable experiential learning opportunities, such as facility tours, hands‑on demonstrations, guest presentations, and our annual visit to the ND State Crime Lab, that help students build professional connections and gain real‑world exposure to forensic practice.