B.S. in Forensic Sciences

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $75

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 72 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 105.

Wichita State University (WSU) offers several scholarships to international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the WSU community. 

International Student Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students based on their academic achievements. The amount of the scholarship varies depending on factors such as GPA and standardized test scores.

International Excellence Scholarships: WSU offers competitive scholarships to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record and demonstrate leadership and community involvement. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

Athletic Scholarships: WSU provides athletic scholarships to international student-athletes who excel in sports such as basketball, track and field, and tennis. These scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition, books, and accommodation.

Private Scholarships: WSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, including those from governments, organizations, and foundations. The Office of International Education can assist students in finding relevant scholarships.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments within WSU offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, leadership, or other criteria related to the student's chosen field of study.

Cultural Diversity Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. They are available to students from underrepresented backgrounds who contribute to the cultural diversity of WSU.

Conditional Scholarships: Conditional scholarships may be offered to students who meet academic requirements but require additional English language support. These scholarships often include language training as part of the package.

It's essential for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and scholarship amounts for each scholarship opportunity.

Graduates with a B.S. in Forensic Sciences from Wichita State University are well-prepared to pursue a diverse range of careers in the forensic science field, as well as in related areas of law enforcement, criminal justice, and laboratory sciences. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training equip students with the technical skills and analytical abilities needed to excel in various professional roles.

Forensic Scientist: Many graduates go on to become forensic scientists, working in crime laboratories at the local, state, or federal level. In this role, they analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, and toxicology samples, to assist in criminal investigations. Forensic scientists play a crucial role in solving crimes and ensuring that justice is served by providing accurate and reliable scientific analyses.

Crime Scene Investigator (CSI): Another common career path is that of a crime scene investigator (CSI). CSIs are responsible for collecting and preserving evidence at crime scenes. This role requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of forensic protocols. CSIs often work closely with law enforcement agencies, using their expertise to ensure that evidence is properly documented and analyzed.

Forensic Toxicologist: Graduates may also pursue careers as forensic toxicologists, specializing in the analysis of biological samples to detect the presence of drugs, alcohol, and other toxic substances. Forensic toxicologists often work in laboratories or medical examiners' offices, contributing vital information that can determine causes of death or impairment in legal cases.

Forensic Pathologist Assistant: Those with an interest in medical forensics might consider becoming a forensic pathologist assistant. In this role, graduates assist forensic pathologists in conducting autopsies and examining bodies to determine the cause and manner of death. This career path requires a strong background in anatomy and medical sciences, as well as the ability to work in potentially distressing environments.

Digital Forensics Specialist: With the rise of cybercrime, there is a growing demand for digital forensics specialists. These professionals focus on recovering and analyzing data from computers, mobile devices, and other digital media that can be used as evidence in criminal investigations. Graduates with a strong interest in technology and cybersecurity may find this career path particularly rewarding.

Law Enforcement Officer: The skills and knowledge gained from a B.S. in Forensic Sciences are also highly applicable to careers in law enforcement. Graduates may choose to become police officers, federal agents, or detectives, where their forensic expertise can enhance their investigative capabilities. Positions in agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or Homeland Security are potential career avenues for those interested in national security and criminal investigation.

Forensic Consultant: Some graduates choose to work as forensic consultants, providing expert advice and analysis for legal cases. Forensic consultants may work independently or as part of a consulting firm, offering their expertise to attorneys, insurance companies, or private organizations. This role often involves testifying in court as an expert witness, where the consultant’s scientific knowledge can influence the outcome of legal proceedings.

Academic and Research Careers: Graduates interested in academia may pursue academic and research careers in forensic sciences. With further education, they can become professors or researchers, contributing to the advancement of forensic science through teaching and conducting original research. This career path is ideal for those who are passionate about education and the development of new forensic methodologies.