Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Forensic Science

North Oshawa

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Forensic Science program at Ontario Tech University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of forensic science principles, techniques, and methodologies. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, this program prepares students for careers in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, government institutions, and private sector firms. The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Forensic Science program at Ontario Tech University offers students a comprehensive education that combines scientific theory, practical skills, ethical awareness, and technological proficiency in the field of forensic science. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on laboratory experiences, and focus on professional development, the program prepares students for successful careers in forensic science and provides a solid foundation for further studies or specialization in the field.

Curriculum:

  1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates elements of biology, chemistry, physics, criminalistics, and criminal justice. Students explore a wide range of forensic science topics, including crime scene investigation, forensic biology, forensic chemistry, forensic toxicology, forensic anthropology, forensic DNA analysis, and forensic psychology.

  2. Foundational Science Courses: Students take a series of foundational science courses covering topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. These courses provide students with a solid grounding in scientific principles and methodologies essential for forensic science practice.

  3. Specialized Forensic Science Courses: The curriculum includes specialized courses focusing on various aspects of forensic science, such as crime scene processing, evidence collection and preservation, laboratory analysis techniques, interpretation of forensic data, and expert testimony in court. Students learn how to apply scientific methods to analyze physical evidence and solve criminal cases.

  4. Hands-on Laboratory Experience: The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience to complement classroom instruction. Students have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and forensic techniques, conducting experiments, analyzing evidence samples, and interpreting forensic data under the guidance of experienced faculty members.

  5. Crime Scene Investigation Training: Students receive training in crime scene investigation techniques, including evidence documentation, photography, fingerprinting, bloodstain pattern analysis, and impression evidence collection. They learn how to process crime scenes systematically, preserve evidence integrity, and adhere to legal and ethical standards in forensic practice.

  6. Forensic Research and Capstone Projects: Students have the opportunity to engage in forensic research projects and capstone experiences that allow them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world forensic challenges. They may conduct independent research, participate in collaborative projects, or work on case studies under the supervision of faculty mentors.

  7. Ethical and Legal Considerations: The program addresses ethical and legal issues relevant to forensic science practice, including principles of professional conduct, chain of custody protocols, expert witness testimony, and adherence to forensic standards and accreditation requirements. Students develop an understanding of their role as ethical practitioners within the criminal justice system.

  8. Technology Integration: Ontario Tech University integrates technological applications and digital tools into the Forensic Science program to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for careers in the digital age. Students may learn about forensic software applications, data analysis techniques, digital imaging technologies, and emerging trends in forensic science technology.

  9. Professional Skills Development: In addition to scientific knowledge and technical skills, the program emphasizes the development of professional skills essential for success in the forensic science field. Students learn effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills, preparing them for roles in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and other forensic settings.

  10. Preparation for Career Pathways: Upon graduation, students are prepared for various career pathways in forensic science, including forensic laboratory technician, crime scene investigator, forensic biologist, forensic chemist, forensic toxicologist, DNA analyst, forensic anthropologist, digital forensics examiner, and forensic consultant. Graduates may also pursue advanced studies at the graduate level in forensic science, criminalistics, or related disciplines.

Pollster Education

Location

North Oshawa

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

CAD 30655

Application Fees : CAD $100

Undergraduate Programs:

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Ontario Tech University are required to have completed a secondary school diploma or equivalent. The minimum academic requirement is a score of 65% or higher in the final year of secondary school or its equivalent.

English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is essential for international students to succeed in their studies at Ontario Tech University. The university accepts the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as one of the recognized English proficiency tests. The minimum required IELTS score for undergraduate programs is 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0. TOEFL iBT overall score of 83 required with no band less than 19, PTE overall score of 58 is required and DET score of 110 is required.

Additional Requirements: In addition to the academic and English language requirements, some undergraduate programs may have specific prerequisites or additional admission requirements. These requirements may include prerequisite courses, portfolios, interviews, or supplementary application materials. It is important for international students to review the program-specific admission requirements for the program they wish to apply to.

Scholarships available to international students at Ontario Tech University, Canada.

International Excellence Scholarships: Ontario Tech University offers International Excellence Scholarships to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs. These scholarships are merit-based and recognize academic achievement. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for subsequent years based on maintaining a specified GPA.

Ontario Tech Graduate Scholarships: International students applying for graduate programs at Ontario Tech University are eligible for Ontario Tech Graduate Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria determined by individual graduate programs. The scholarship amount varies, and students are automatically considered for these scholarships upon application to their respective programs.

External Scholarships and Awards: Ontario Tech University encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by government organizations, non-profit organizations, and other sources. The university provides information and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships. Students can also consult their home country's scholarship programs that support studying abroad.

Donor-Funded Scholarships: Ontario Tech University has a number of donor-funded scholarships available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and organizations. The eligibility criteria, application process, and scholarship amounts vary depending on the specific scholarships.

Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships: International graduate students may have the opportunity to work as research assistants or teaching assistants, which not only provide valuable research and teaching experience but also offer financial support. These assistantships may come with a stipend or tuition fee waiver.

Government Funding Programs: International students at Ontario Tech University may be eligible for government funding programs offered by their home country. These programs provide financial assistance for students studying abroad. Students are encouraged to research and explore the various government-sponsored scholarships and grants available in their respective countries.

It's important to note that the availability and criteria for scholarships may vary from year to year.  Applying for scholarships typically requires submitting a separate application, meeting specific eligibility criteria, and adhering to application deadlines. International students are advised to plan their scholarship applications well in advance and carefully review the requirements and instructions provided by the university.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Forensic Science program at Ontario Tech University are equipped with a diverse skill set and specialized knowledge that prepare them for a wide range of career opportunities in the field of forensic science and related areas. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Forensic Science program from Ontario Tech University have diverse career opportunities available to them in the field of forensic science, criminal justice, law enforcement, research, consulting, and academia. With their specialized training, analytical skills, and ethical awareness, graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the investigation and resolution of criminal cases, the advancement of forensic science knowledge, and the promotion of justice and public safety.

  1. Forensic Laboratory Technician: Graduates may work as forensic laboratory technicians in government forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, private forensic consulting firms, or research institutions. They conduct analysis and examination of physical evidence collected from crime scenes, including DNA, fingerprints, trace evidence, and controlled substances, using various scientific techniques and instrumentation.

  2. Crime Scene Investigator: Graduates can pursue careers as crime scene investigators or forensic technicians with law enforcement agencies, forensic units, or private investigation firms. They are responsible for processing crime scenes, collecting and documenting evidence, photographing the scene, and collaborating with forensic experts to gather information crucial for criminal investigations.

  3. Forensic Biologist: Graduates may specialize as forensic biologists, focusing on the analysis of biological evidence such as blood, saliva, hair, and bodily fluids found at crime scenes. They use techniques such as DNA profiling, serology, and forensic entomology to identify individuals, determine relationships, and provide valuable evidence for criminal investigations and court proceedings.

  4. Forensic Chemist: Graduates can work as forensic chemists, specializing in the analysis of chemical evidence such as drugs, explosives, toxins, and arson residues. They use analytical techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry to identify and quantify substances, determine their origin or composition, and provide expert testimony in legal cases.

  5. Forensic Toxicologist: Graduates may pursue careers as forensic toxicologists, specializing in the analysis of toxic substances in biological samples such as blood, urine, and tissues. They identify drugs, alcohol, poisons, and other substances present in post-mortem or forensic toxicology samples, interpret results, and provide expert opinions on their relevance to criminal investigations or legal cases.

  6. DNA Analyst: Graduates with expertise in molecular biology and genetics may work as DNA analysts, specializing in the extraction, amplification, and analysis of DNA evidence from biological samples. They use polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing techniques to compare DNA profiles, identify suspects, and link individuals to crime scenes or victims.

  7. Digital Forensics Examiner: Graduates interested in digital forensics may pursue careers as digital forensics examiners, specializing in the recovery, analysis, and preservation of electronic evidence from computers, mobile devices, and digital media. They use forensic software tools and techniques to investigate cybercrimes, data breaches, intellectual property theft, and other digital offenses.

  8. Forensic Anthropologist: Graduates with training in anthropology may work as forensic anthropologists, specializing in the analysis of human skeletal remains to assist in the identification of deceased individuals, determine the cause and manner of death, and provide evidence for criminal investigations or mass disaster responses.

  9. Forensic Consultant: Graduates may work as forensic consultants or independent contractors, providing expert advice, analysis, and testimony on forensic science matters to legal professionals, law enforcement agencies, government bodies, or private clients. They may specialize in specific areas such as bloodstain pattern analysis, firearm and toolmark examination, forensic odontology, or forensic psychology.

  10. Researcher or Educator: Graduates interested in academia or research may pursue careers as forensic science researchers, educators, or academic professionals. They may work in universities, research institutes, or government agencies, conducting scientific research, developing new forensic methodologies, teaching courses, and training future generations of forensic scientists.


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