Virginia Commonwealth University B.S. in Forensic Science Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Virginia Commonwealth University B.S. in Forensic Science Student Handbook Department of Forensic Science Harris Hall South, 2nd floor 1020 W. Main St (804) ; (804) fax

2 Table of Contents Undergraduate Director s Welcome 3 Chair s Welcome 4 Mission Statement & Objectives 5 General Information about Forensic Science 6 Forensic Science Overview 8 Curriculum 9 Sample Schedules Forensic Biology Track 12 Forensic Chemistry Track 13 Course Sequencing 14 University College 15 Honor System 16 Process for Complaints 17 Academic Technology Information 18 Study Abroad 19 Advising 20 Departmental Awards 23 Internships and Independent Studies 25 Additional Career Opportunities 29 Internet Resources in Forensic Science 30 Future Employment and Background Investigations 31 Organizations 32 Forensic Science Student Club American Academy of Forensic Sciences Important Phone Numbers 33 VCU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action university providing access to education and employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, veteran s status, political affiliation or disability. 2

3 July 2011 Dear Student, Forensic Science is an field that calls for individuals with a love for the sciences and a drive to serve their community. I chose this field because I saw it as the ideal means of applying my scientific knowledge and educational background to a lifelong career that I could feel good about. Forensic Science is unique in that it, as an applied science, lies squarely at the intersections of Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Mathematics. As such, you will be exposed to a thorough education of all of these subject areas, and will be expected to utilize the knowledge that you have earned from these courses and apply it to your chosen Forensic Science field. Forensic Science is not a major for those looking for an easy ride through their college career but if you are looking for an intense, but thoroughly rewarding journey, the Forensic Science major can prepare you not only for a career as a Forensic Scientist, but also further graduate education in the sciences or professional studies. VCU s Bachelor s of Forensic Science program is accredited by the Forensic Science Educational Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), and is one of only 18 accredited Forensic Science undergraduate programs in the nation. As a Forensic Science major, you will be assigned an academic advisor from the faculty in the Department of Forensic Science. Each faculty member has been or is a practicing Forensic Scientist, and they have invaluable knowledge and contacts in the Forensic Science field that can help you launch your career. I wish you the best of luck in your education here at VCU. If I can assist you in any way, please feel free to stop by my office during the posted office hours in Oliver North, Room 2007, or me at sseashols@vcu.edu for an appointment. Sincerely, Sarah J. Seashols Undergraduate Program Director Department of Forensic Science Harris Hall South, Room 2007 (804) sseashols@vcu.edu 3

4 Greetings Undergraduate Forensic Science Student! Welcome to Virginia Commonwealth University and to the Department of Forensic Science! You are now part of an exciting undergraduate program and a Department that strives to deliver to you cutting edge and relevant material. We are very proud of this program - among our many attributes, we have dynamic and invested faculty and are FEPAC accredited. So, with all of the opportunities available for you to explore your interests, your responsibility is to choose amongst the options and to set goals that will put you on a successful path toward the career of your dreams! This handbook is designed to answer many questions you may have about the B.S. in Forensic Science Program and the Department. It is also one resource to learn of the various opportunities and services within the Department and University. Additionally, the VCU Bulletin is the official source for the University's academic regulations and degree requirements. You can find a copy of the Bulletin on the VCU website. Between the bulletin and this handbook, you will have all of the procedures and requirements to know how to successfully complete your degree. In your first year at VCU, you will be assigned to an advisor through University College (UC). You should be receiving an with information about this advisor in the first couple weeks of the fall semester. You will also be assigned to a faculty member in the Department. You are strongly encouraged to consult with your advisor at least once a semester to discuss your educational and career goals and to assist you with course planning and registration. Once you have completed 90 credits, you will be required to meet with your advisor each semester in order to be sure you are tracking toward graduation and to discuss those post-graduation plans. I encourage you to also get involved around campus! The Forensic Science Student Club is very active in campus activities and also delivers a strong program every semester with special speakers and opportunities. You can find them on Facebook and through the Department website. And, while you re at it, friend the Department as well! Please let us know if you have additional questions! I wish you success in your pursuits here at VCU and in the Department of Forensic Science! Best regards, Michelle Peace, Ph.D. Interim Chair 4

5 Undergraduate Program Mission Statement & Objectives Mission Statement The mission of the Program is to provide students with a solid, well-rounded education preparing them for effective professional careers in public and private forensic laboratories, basic research laboratories, and clinical laboratories. Supporting goals and objectives Students will be prepared to pursue advanced degrees in the physical sciences, biological sciences, forensic science, law, allied health and medicine. Students will have a breadth of knowledge provided by a liberal arts approach to the discipline and by hands-on experience in the laboratory. They will learn principles of evidence collection and preservation, forensic chemistry, forensic molecular biology, microscopy, criminalistic examinations, ethics, QA/QC, and professional practices. Students will also learn the importance of the scientific analysis of physical evidence and its place in the justice system. 5

6 General Information about Forensic Science What is Forensic Science? Forensic science is the application of the physical sciences aiding criminal investigations. What is a Forensic Scientist? A forensic scientist is a scientist who analyzes physical evidence as it relates to criminal investigation. What are the career opportunities? The main path for students interested in a career in forensic science is laboratory analysis. For those students who are more interested in crime scene investigation, the other path may be criminal investigation. The forensic scientist is an lab analyst, educated and trained in a specific forensic science discipline. The forensic scientist applies his/her expertise to analyze objectively the physical evidence collected at a crime scene that pertains to his/her area of expertise and issues an opinion as to the results of the scientific studies. The forensic scientist works mainly in the crime laboratory and testifies in court but will rarely go to the crime scene. The main role of an investigator is to recognize, document, collect and preserve physical evidence at a crime scene. Students interested in careers in crime scene investigation rather than a career path which includes laboratory analysis are encouraged to explore the new concentration in the Criminal Justice major at academics/default.asp?id=99 What are the careers in forensic analysis? Positions in a forensic laboratory include microscopy/trace evidence examiner, forensic molecular biology (DNA), firearms/toolmark examiner, questioned document examiner, fingerprint analyst, forensic drug chemist, and toxicologist. Specialty areas outside the crime laboratory are anthropologist, entomologist, pathologist, psychologist and may require professional degrees beyond the undergraduate degree. What skills do I need to be a forensic laboratory scientist? The specific skills required are dependent upon the field of expertise selected. In general, forensic scientists need to have experience in the physical sciences such as biology (molecular or genetics, botany and ecology), analytical chemical methodology and principles, and techniques in microscopy. And forensic scientists need above average communication skills, which include the writing of laboratory reports, courtroom testimony and public speaking. What are the careers in forensic investigation? Job titles include crime scene investigator (CSI), evidence technician, crime scene technician, forensic investigator and criminalistics officer, medio-legal investigator which are all essentially the same thing. What skills do I need to be a CSI? The CSI needs expertise in photography, sketching, and physical evidence processing. Collection and basic knowledge of fingerprint processing, trace evidence, biological fluids, firearms, and various types of chemical evidence and analysis of bloodstain patterns are essential. The investigator needs to be proficient in note taking and basic steps of crime scene security. He/she also needs to have above average verbal and written communication skills to work with other investigators, examiners, and pathologists, to write a clear and comprehensive detailed report, and to testify clearly and concisely in court. 6

7 General Info about Forensic Science (continued) How do I match my career interest with a track in the Forensic Science major? The student interested in a career as a forensic scientist must evaluate his/her strengths and interests. If you enjoy the principles of DNA or biological systems, the Forensic Biology track is the one to choose. The student who enjoys working with chemicals and analytical instrumentation should select the Forensic Chemistry track. The Forensic Science Biology Track will acquaint students with forensic principles in fields such as genetics, statistics, botany, entomology, DNA, and a variety of physiological stains. The Forensic Chemistry track will acquaint students with forensic analysis in areas such as drugs, hairs, fibers, paint, glass and other trace evidence. Either track will prepare students to be well-rounded and equipped to be a forensic scientist in the laboratory. Is a science degree required to pursue an investigative career path? While a science degree is not required for an investigative path, it may be beneficial. The B.S. in Forensic Science provides a foundation in the basic physical sciences and the scientific method. Prospective employers might view this background as one that leads to developing theory and new procedures to be used for crime scene investigation. Do I need a graduate degree in order to find work as a forensic scientist? No, a graduate degree is not a requirement to work in a forensic laboratory or as an investigator, although it may be beneficial. In addition, every forensic laboratory has entry-level positions available. Laboratory directors are looking for people with solid foundations in science to fill these positions. 7

8 Forensic Science Overview This handbook reflects curriculum requirements for students (first-time freshmen, change of majors, and transfer students) who entered the Forensic Science major for the first time in the fall of The forensic science program requires a credits with 45 general education requirements, core program credits and 30 (forensic chemistry) or 33 (forensic biology) track-specific credits. In addition, students in the forensic science program must receive a minimum grade of C in specified courses in order to be able to continue in the program and must complete the general education requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in the College of Humanities and Sciences. Students who entered the Forensic Science major prior to fall 2011 and who have been continuously enrolled in the major are eligible to use the undergraduate bulletin and handbook under which they were admitted, or alternatively, a more recent bulletin. The disciplines typically included within the forensic biology track are serology and DNA analysis. Forensic Science students who are academically strong in the biological sciences and are interested in careers in serology and/or DNA analysis should consider pursuing the forensic biology track. Students completing this track will be well-prepared for laboratory work in forensic serology and/or biology research laboratories in either the private or public sector. In addition, forensic biology students will be wellequipped to pursue crime scene careers or graduate and/or professional studies either within a forensic science curriculum or in Ph.D. programs. Some of the disciplines typically included within forensic chemistry are analytical chemistry, drug analysis, toxicology, and/or trace evidence analysis. Forensic Science students who are academically strong in the chemical & physical sciences and interested in these types of careers are encouraged to pursue the forensic chemistry track. Students completing this track will be well-prepared for laboratory work in any analytical laboratory as well as forensic chemistry and/or toxicology laboratories in either private or public analytical laboratories. In addition, forensic chemistry students will be well-equipped to pursue crime scene careers or graduate and/or professional studies either within a forensic science curriculum or in Ph.D. programs. Students completing the Forensic Science B.S. degree (either the biology or chemistry track) are automatically eligible for a minor in Chemistry. All required 300-level chemistry courses must be taken at VCU in order to be eligible for the Chemistry minor. A cumulative 2.0 grade-point average in the minor is required (transfer and VCU). Students in the forensic biology track wishing to add a minor in Biology need only add BIOL 317, Ecology, to their coursework. Related Major: Students interested in careers in Forensic Crime Scene Investigation rather than a career path which includes laboratory analysis are encouraged to explore the Crime Scene Investigation concentration in the Criminal Justice major. Information about the B.S. in Criminal Justice can be found at 8

9 Curriculum for a B.S. in Forensic Science The curriculum includes Forensic Science core courses, a Forensic Science track, additional required courses and general education requirements for the College of Humanities and Sciences. Forensic Science core (53-55 credits) FRSC 300 FRSC 309 FRSC 365 FRSC 375 FRSC 490 BIOL 152 BIOZ 152 CHEM 101 CHEZ 101 CHEM 102 CHEZ 102 CHEM 301 CHEZ 301 CHEM 302 CHEZ 302 CRJS 181 PHYS 201 & 202 OR PHYS 207 & 208 Survey of Forensic Science (3 credits)* Scientific Crime Scene Investigation (3 credits)* Forensic Microscopy (4 credits)* Forensic Evidence, Law & Criminal Procedure (3 credits)* Professional Practices in Forensic Science (3 credits)* Introduction to Biological Sciences II (3 credits)* Introduction to Biological Sciences Laboratory II (1 credit)* General Chemistry I (3 credits)*+ General Chemistry Laboratory I (1 credit)* General Chemistry II (3 credits)* General Chemistry Laboratory II (1 credit)* Organic Chemistry I (3 credits)+ Organic Chemistry Laboratory I (2 credits) Organic Chemistry II (3 credits)+ Organic Chemistry II Laboratory (2 credits) Justice System Survey (3 credits) General Physics I (4 credits)* & General Physics II (4 credits) University Physics I (5 credits)* & University Physics II (5 credits) Advanced Credits (min 7 credit hours) in BIOL/Z, CHEM/Z, CRJS, FRSC/Z, MATH, or PHYS 2XX-3XX-4XX-5XX Additional Required Courses (10 credits required of all students): PHIL 201 Critical Thinking About Moral Problems (3 credits) MATH 200 Calculus with Analytic Geometry (4 credits) STAT 210 Basic Practice of Statistics (3 credits) *A grade of C or better is required to remain in the program. +A grade of C or better is required to advance to the second course in the sequence. 9

10 Curriculum (continued) Concentrations Students will choose one of the two concentrations within the Forensic Science major by the beginning of their junior year. Students need to complete and turn in a concentration notification on the University s change of major form available at Forms should be turned in to the Student Services Center in Hibbs 211. Forensic Biology Concentration (26 credits) BIOL 151 Introduction to Biological Science I (3 credits)* BIOZ 151 Introduction to Biological Science Lab I (1 credit)* BIOL 218 Cell Biology (3 credits)+ BIOZ 476 Biology Capstone Laboratory (2 credits) BIOL 310 Genetics (3 credits) CHEM 403 Biochemistry (3 credits) FRSC 385 Forensic Serology (3 credits)* FRSC/BIOL 438 Forensic Molecular Biology (3 credits)* FRSZ/BIOZ 438 Forensic Molecular Biology Laboratory (2 credits)* 3xx-5xx Elective 3 credits of FRSC/Z, BIOL/Z, MATH, CHEM/Z, or PHYS/Z 3oo-500 level courses Forensic Chemistry Concentration (23 credits) MATH 201 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (4 credits) CHEM 303 Physical Chemistry (3 credits)+ CHEZ 303 Physical Chemistry Laboratory (2 credits) CHEM 309 Quantitative Analysis (3 credits)+ CHEZ 309 Quantitative Analysis Laboratory (1 credit) CHEM 409 Instrumental Analysis (3 credits) CHEZ 409 Instrumental Analysis Laboratory (2 credits) FRSC 400 Forensic Chemistry (3 credits)* FRSZ 400 Forensic Chemistry Laboratory (2 credits)* *A grade of C or better is required to remain in the program. +A grade of C or better is required to advance to any course which requires this as a prerequisite. 10

11 Curriculum (continued) General Education Requirements for the College of Humanities and Sciences Students must complete the general education requirements of the College. Students will select courses from the approved lists found in the VCU Undergraduate and Professional Programs Bulletin at and the schedule of courses in the areas listed below. The courses listed in the Bulletin have variable credit; however, no fewer than 41 credits are required to meet the General Education requirements. Box 1 UNIV 111/112 Focused Inquiry I and II (6 credits) UNIV 200 (3 credits) Box 2: Mathematics requirements are met in the major Box 3: Human, Social, and Political Behavior (3-4 credits) Box 4: Science and Technology (3-4 credits) FRSC 201 does not fulfill this requirement Box 5: Diverse and Global Communities (3 credits) Box 6: Literature and Civilization (3 credits) PHIL 201 is required for FRSC majors Box 7: General Education Electives (choose 2 additional courses from boxes 3, 4, 5, or 6; must be from two different boxes) Box 8 Experiencing the Fine Arts (1-3 credits) HUMS 202 Choices in a Consumer Society (1 credit) Box 9: Foreign Language (0-8 credits). Students who qualify through the elementary level (102) of a foreign language by previous high school background or through the placement test satisfy this requirement. 11

12 Sample Schedule Forensic Biology Track Freshman year CHEM 101 and CHEZ 101 General Chemistry I and Laboratory CHEM 102 and CHEZ 102 General Chemistry II and Laboratory CRJS 181 Justice System Survey MATH 200 Calculus with Analytical Geometry STAT 210 Basic Practice of Statistics UNIV 111 and 112 Focused Inquiry I and II General education requirements Sophomore year BIOL 151 and BIOZ 151 Introduction to Biological Science I and Laboratory I BIOL 152 and BIOZ 152 Introduction to Biological Science II and Laboratory II UNIV 200 Writing and Rhetoric Workshop CHEM 301 and CHEZ 301 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory CHEM 302 and CHEZ 302 Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory FRSC 300 Survey of Forensic Science General education requirements Junior year BIOL 218 Cell Biology BIOL 310 Genetics BIOZ 476 Biology Capstone Laboratory PHYS 201 General Physics or PHYS 207 University Physics I PHYS 202 General Physics or PHYS 208 University Physics II FRSC 309 Scientific Crime Scene Investigation FRSC 365 Forensic Microscopy FRSC 375 Forensic Evidence, Law and Criminal Procedures General education requirements Senior year CHEM/BIOC 403 Biochemistry FRSC 385 Forensic Serology FRSC/BIOL 438 Forensic Molecular Biology FRSZ/BIOZ 438 Forensic Molecular Biology Laboratory FRSC 490 Professional Practices in Forensic Science Advanced Electives in FRSC, BIOL, CHEM, PHYS, MATH, or CRJS General education requirements 12

13 Sample Schedule Forensic Chemistry Track Freshman year BIOL 152 and BIOZ 152 Introduction to Biological Science II and Laboratory CHEM 101 and CHEZ 101 General Chemistry I and Laboratory CHEM 102 and CHEZ 102 General Chemistry II and Laboratory CRJS 181 Justice System Survey MATH Calculus with Analytical Geometry UNIV 111 and 112 Focused Inquiry I and II General education requirements Sophomore year CHEM 301 and CHEZ 301 Organic Chemistry I and Laboratory CHEM 302 and CHEZ 302 Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory UNIV 200 Writing and Rhetoric Workshop II PHYS 201 General Physics or PHYS 207 University Physics I PHYS 202 General Physics or PHYS 208 University Physics II STAT 210 Basic Practice of Statistics General education requirements Junior year CHEM 303 and CHEZ 303 Physical Chemistry and Laboratory I CHEM 309 and CHEZ 309 Quantitative Analysis and Laboratory FRSC 309 Scientific Crime Scene Investigation FRSC 350 Survey of Forensic Science FRSC 375 Forensic Evidence, Law and Criminal Procedures FRSC 365 Forensic Microscopy General education requirements Senior year CHEM 409 and CHEZ 409 Instrumental Analysis and Laboratory FRSC 400 and FRSZ 400 Forensic Chemistry and Laboratory FRSC 490 Professional Practices in Forensic Science Advanced Electives in FRSC, BIOL, CHEM, PHYS, MATH, or CRJS General education requirements 13

14 Course Sequencing Sequencing your science courses is very important. Some courses are offered only once each year and others are offered more often. The purpose of this spreadsheet is to assist you in planning. Courses are not guaranteed to be offered the semester indicated; however, the information on this spreadsheet is based upon previous scheduling patterns Historical Scheduling Pattern Fall Spring Summer FRSC 300 X X FRSC 309 X X X FRSC 310 X FRSC 320 X FRSC 365 X X FRSC 375 X X X FRSC 385 X X FRSC 400 X FRSZ 400 X FRSC 445 X FRSC 490 X X X FRSC/BIOL 438 X X FRSZ/BIOZ 438 X X BIOL X X X BIOZ X X X BIOL 218 X X X BIOZ 300 (BIOZ 476) X X BIOL 310 X X X CHEM X X X CHEZ X X X CHEM X X X CHEZ X X X CHEM 303 X X CHEZ 303 X X CHEM 309 X X CHEZ 309 X X CHEM 403 X X X CHEM 409 X CHEZ 409 X X MATH 200 X X X MATH 201 X X X PHYS 201 X X X PHYS 202 X X X PHYS 207 X X X PHYS 208 X X 14

15 University College Located on the first floor of Hibbs Hall, 900 Park Avenue, University College provides a common experience for first year and transfer students and serves as VCU s front door to the university. The College is a central location for academic support services and the core curriculum. For more information, visit University College offers the following programs and services: First year student advising Pre-health and pre-law academic advising Orientation and new student programs Tutoring and study groups through the Campus Learning Center Discovery Program for students unsure of their major Introduction to the University, Turning Point, and Focus on Choice classes Learning Communities The Writing Center When to visit University College If you are thinking about going to Law School or Medical School... If you are having problems in one of your science or math courses... If you are unsure you are in the correct major and want to explore... If you are struggling to get started with a writing assignment... If you are a freshman and you need to talk with your academic advisor... If you want to be part of a study group... 15

16 VCU s Honor System Virginia Commonwealth University recognizes that honesty, truth, and integrity are values central to its mission as an institution of higher education. Therefore, it must act to maintain these values, even to the point of separating from the University those who violate them. The VCU HONOR SYSTEM describes the responsibilities of students, faculty, and administration in upholding academic integrity, while at the same time respecting the rights of individuals to the due process offered by administrative hearings and appeals. Any persons enrolled in any course or program offered by VCU, and all persons supervising the learning of any student are responsible for acting in accordance with the provisions of this policy. A complete text is included at An integral part of the VCU HONOR SYSTEM is the Honor Pledge: "On my honor, I have neither given nor received aid on this assignment, and I pledge that I am in compliance with the VCU Honor System." At the option of the instructor, work assigned for classes, internships, and all other types of instruction offered at the University may be accomplished in either of two ways: (1) as "Pledged" work, for which the student will sign a pledge statement indicating that the work was completed independently, without giving or receiving assistance from another; or (2) as "Unpledged" work, which may be completed in collaboration with others as directed by the instructor and for which no pledge statement is required. All work is considered to be pledged unless the instructor specifies otherwise. The VCU HONOR SYSTEM gives definitions and illustrative examples of five acts which are violations of the policy: Cheating, Plagiarism, Facilitating, Stealing, and Lying. There are six penalties which may be imposed upon students who are found guilty of violations: Honor Probation, Assignment of Grades, Suspension, Expulsion, Revocation, and Other Relevant Sanctions. 16

17 Process for Complaints There are official university policies to address numerous complaint scenarios. VCU policies include University Rules and Procedures; Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity; Rights of Students Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA); VCU Honor System; Grade Review Procedure; Student Conduct; University Guidelines on the Prohibition of Sexual Harassment; Student Sexual Misconduct; Policy Statement on Hazing; Guidelines for Demonstrations on the Campuses; Alcohol and Drugs; AIDS; Computer and Network Resources; and Student . These policies are included in the VCU Insider Resource Guide, located at In most situations, you are encouraged to talk directly with the professor to see if there has been a misunderstanding, and if the situation is not resolved to your satisfaction, you are encouraged to meet with the Department Chairperson or the Undergraduate Director. Should the complaint fail to be resolved at the Department level, you would be referred to the Associate Dean or the Dean of the College. Formal procedures are available to students throughout the process. For instance, if you continue to feel a grade was unfairly assigned even after talking with the instructor, you may initiate a formal grade appeal process by submitting a written appeal to the chair/director of the department/program in which the course was taught (see the VCU Insider Guide for full process description). The chair/director attempts to mediate the situation within a time limit and if that fails, the complaint is forwarded to the Dean of the school in which the course was taught. The Dean forms a Grade Review Committee, which examines materials in open or closed hearings by agreement of the appealing student and the faculty member. The Dean communicates the decision of the committee in writing and the reasons for it. The evidence, proceedings, and decision are confidential. The Forensic Science Interim Chair, Dr. Michelle Peace, and the Forensic Science Undergraduate Director, Ms. Sarah Seashols, are available to advise students who have a complaint. Contact information for Dr. Peace and Ms. Seashols are on the last page of this handbook. 17

18 Academic Technology Information Accounts are based on your eid. To manage your VCU eid, go to: index.cgi Anti-Virus Software is available at no charge to registered students, faculty and staff. For more information and to download the program, go to: Blackboard Accounts use the same eid and password as accounts. Once a student has a VCU account, he or she can access the Blackboard system. VCU Cards are obtained from VCUCard office, located in the Technology Administration Building at 701 West Broad Street. VCU Cards (with funds added) are needed to access pay-for-print services. Funds can be added at Value Transfer stations or online. See for further information. Computer Labs are available throughout the MCV and Monroe Park Campus. For the nearest computer lab, go to the following URL for the latest locations and information: kb/2028.html Wireless Network Access is available to all VCU students, faculty and staff with an eid. Go to the following URL for further information and a map of hotspots: 18

19 Study Abroad VCU s Office of International Education, located at 817 W. Franklin Street, Room 122, offers many opportunities for VCU students to study for a semester or a year at universities (both in this country and abroad) through either the National Student Exchange Program or the International Student Exchange Program. Of special interest to students in Chemistry, Biology and Forensic Science is the Semester and Year in the Sciences at the University of the West of England, located in Bristol, England. This is a full year or fall semester placement option for juniors and seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA. An interview process by the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee is required for the Forensic Science Study Abroad Program. For further information, access the following website: A Different Point of View Bethany Guckert, Study Abroad Student For years VCU accepted students from the University of the West of England (UWE) to study and work to further their educations, but until last year VCU had yet to send students there. I was one of the first such students to study abroad at UWE. Located in the heart of Bristol, England, UWE has an exceptional faculty, modern and technologically advanced laboratories, and a strong tie to the community and forensic services. The differences in teaching style, laboratory technique, and environment made an invaluable addition to my education at VCU. In a field as interdisciplinary as Forensic Science, studying abroad showed me how my major is used in other cultures and through a different point of view. Bristol is a large city with enough of a night life to keep you busy. Theaters, nightclubs, restaurants, museums, and art exhibitions litter the streets and make Bristol a focus of culture and entertainment. The Center, our description of downtown, lies on the water and houses everything from foreign film festivals to a weekly Market. Everywhere you walk you find historical buildings and ancient cathedrals. UWE takes pride in being a strong influence on the city, from its extensive use of historical sites for its students to the four main campuses. As a location Bristol is fantastic, it takes eleven minutes to get to Bath by train, London is only a two hour bus ride, and flights from Bristol Airport go to most major cities in the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. The forensics program at UWE is devoted to laboratory time. As a rule most students have sixty percent laboratory time in state-of-the-art crime lab rooms or the more contained microbiology labs and forty percent lecture time in their second year. Since the UK goes by a three year graduation program with an onthe-job apprenticeship thrown in, most students leave University with as much hands-on experience as they do theory. While studying at UWE, I took Scientific Investigation of Crime, and the course included labs that explored everything from blood splatter patterns to drug chemical analysis. At the end of the course, our final lab was to take apart a crime scene and assess the key evidence. After studying Forensic Science at UWE I have a better respect of just how quickly the field is growing. In the five months I spent in Bristol I was shown and preformed techniques in the lab that weren t even imagined ten years ago. It is the importance of keeping up with the evolution of our field that makes studying at UWE such a desirable opportunity. The experience of studying in a city as beautiful as Bristol, with a kind and creative faculty, and a lab made for getting your hands dirty made my time at UWE unforgettable! 19

20 Advising Student Responsibilities: Keep in touch with your advisor during the semester. Meet with your advisor at least once a semester. Keep your appointments and be on time. Be prepared and bring your up-to-date graduation worksheet. Expect to discuss your progress. Ask questions and share ideas and concerns. Know your degree requirements. Follow through on actions identified during the advising session. Consult with your advisor when you are having academic difficulties. Respond to any letters, , or phone messages you receive from your advisor in a timely manner. Accept final responsibility for all decisions. Advisor Responsibilities: Keep all information regarding students personal records confidential. Maintain accessible office hours and keep appointments. Listen and show respect. Provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere during advising sessions. Be aware of campus resources and support services. Help students set appropriate and achievable academic and career goals. Keep students informed of university policies and programs. Follow through with any actions identified during the advising session. Make accurate referrals. Promptly respond to students letters, s, and phone messages. Maintain accurate records of all contracts and necessary documents. (Guidelines adapted and used, courtesy of the University of Texas at El Paso). Advising Tips Know your advisor s name and contact information. Stop by and introduce yourself. If you are unsure who your advisor is, please fos@vcu.edu or call (804) Note that as a Freshman, you will be advised by advisors in the University College. You will first meet with your Forensic Science advisor in the Fall of your Sophomore year. Ensure that the Department of Forensic Science is able to reach you by phone, mailing address, and e- mail. Newsletters and important program information are sent to your official VCU address only. fos@vcu.edu with any contact information (phone, mailing address) changes. 20

21 Advising Tips (continued) Plan to see your advisor at least once each semester. Advanced registration is in October for the spring semester and in March for the fall semester. To register, add, drop or withdraw from classes, to view your personal information, schedule, academic history, or bill, go to the VCU web page, sign in at the myvcu, and access Banner Self-Service through the Single Sign-on links. Services involving records and registration, student accounting and general university information can be obtained at the Student Services Center, in the first floor of Harris Hall. Also, a drop box for payments is located adjacent to the counter. Students may make the following transactions at the counter: register for classes; add/drop or withdraw from class; verify student account balances; obtain unofficial transcripts; request official transcripts, grades, changes of major; obtain certifications of enrollment for loans and deferments; obtain copies of bills; obtain receipts of payments; request refunds for overpayments; request changes to demographic information; request general university information. Many of the above services can now be conducted online, including registration, add/ drop/withdraw, unofficial transcripts, grades, bills & payments & refunds, and information changes through Banner Self-Service. Know registration definitions and deadlines. To drop a course means it no longer shows up on your schedule and you are not financially liable for the class. Exact dates for add/drop periods are listed on the Schedule of Classes website each semester and on the university calendar. Usually fall and spring semesters, students may drop a course during the first four days of the first week of classes. To withdraw from a course means that a mark of W appears on your academic history (transcript) for that course. During the fall and spring semesters, charges for the course are assessed and adjusted according to the refund policy, available in your undergraduate bulletin and on the web. After the first four weeks of classes, no refund is available. Students are allowed to withdraw from a course before the end of the first 10 weeks of classes for fall and spring semesters. If you are receiving financial aid, always consult with a financial aid counselor before withdrawing from a course. Remember summer deadlines for add/drop and withdrawal are different; consult the summer schedules of classes. Let your advisor know if you are having trouble in a class. You and your advisor can brainstorm ways for you to do some problem solving. Let your advisor know if something happens and you are no longer attending classes. VCU s Academic Regulations Appeals Committee (ARAC) considers appeals for exceptions to undergraduate program regulations listed in the Undergraduate and Professional Programs Bulletin. Students who wish to petition for a waiver of a regulation in the bulletin may do so through ARAC. Examples of petitions are retroactive withdrawals or a waiver of the continuance policy following a 1st academic suspension. The ARAC form for appeals can be found at: 20_cover_sheet.pdf 21

22 Advising Tips (continued) Consider internships, independent studies, and cooperative education as ways to gain real life work experience in your field of interest. When you attain junior status, please declare your concentration within the Forensic Science major. This can be accomplished by completing the concentration question on the University s Change of Major form and submitting it to Hibbs Hall, Room 211. Forms are available at Once you have earned 60 credit hours towards your degree, you are required to fill out a Course Evaluation Survey, in which you ll detail the courses that you plan on taking in the next 3 semesters. This is required to ensure that you continue to stay on-track to graduate. If you fail to complete the survey, you will have a hold placed on your account, preventing you from registering for classes. Once you have earned 90 credit hours towards your degree, you will be required to meet with your advisor each semester before you can register for classes. This is required to ensure that you continue to stay on-track to graduate. If you fail to meet with your advisor, you will have a hold placed on your account, preventing you from registering for classes. Make sure you have a copy of your VCU Undergraduate Bulletin, available at The undergraduate bulletin is your college catalog, and your contract with the University. It contains the university calendar, a campus map, student rights information, important academic rules and regulations, information about academic majors, and programs and services. During the first two weeks of the semester in which you intend to graduate, complete the Graduation Checkout on e-services, and make an appointment with your advisor to complete your graduation application. 22

23 Departmental Awards The faculty and staff of the Department of Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University know how hard our undergraduate students work and how important it is for us to acknowledge achievements. Nominations are accepted from faculty and program advisors. The faculty awards committee makes its determinations early each spring semester. Outstanding Graduating Senior in Forensic Science Award Criteria: Forensic Science senior, graduating in August, December, or May Earned 45 credits at VCU Overall VCU grade-point average of 3.5 (or higher at the discretion of the committee) A submitted & approved graduation application Outstanding achievement or service in academics, career, university, or community Award: The College presents the recipient with a plaque from the Department of Forensic Science at the College s spring award ceremony. Black History in the Making Award Criteria: Junior or senior in Forensic Science 45 earned VCU credits Overall VCU grade-point average of 2.5 (or higher at the discretion of the Committee) Outstanding achievement or service in academics, career, university, or community Award: The Department of Forensic Science presents a plaque and a $ award to the recipient during the African American Studies February Award Ceremony. The recipient is also recognized at the Department s diploma ceremony. Forensic Science Academic Achievement Awards Criteria: Forensic Science seniors, graduating in August, December, or May Earned 45 credits at VCU Overall VCU grade-point average of 3.75 cumulative grade-point average (or higher at the discretion of the committee) A submitted/approved graduation application Award: Certificates are presented at the Department s Diploma Ceremony. 23

24 Program Awards (continued) The Forensic Science Leadership and Service Awards Criteria: Forensic Science seniors, graduating in August, December, or May Show extraordinary leadership and/or service to the Department, university or community A submitted & approved graduation application Award: Certificates are presented at the Department s Diploma Ceremony. Undergraduate Travel Award Criteria: Full-time student enrolled in the undergraduate forensic science program Successfully completed 54 semester hours A submitted letter of intent explaining why the applicant should receive the award Submission of applicant s resume or CV If presenting, an abstract of the project Award: $300 to be used for preparation, presentation, travel, registration, or any other cost associated with attendance at the meeting 24

25 Opportunities for Exploring A Career in Forensic Science VCU Forensic Science Internship, FRSC 493 We strive to provide eligible undergraduate Forensic Science majors with practical, real world work experience through internships. This internship enables students to earn three academic credits while gaining valuable forensic science laboratory experience. The work experience supplements classroom learning, introduces new skills, and provides insight for future career planning. Students are responsible for arranging their own internships. Forensic Science faculty are a good source for suggesting internship opportunities. Once an internship opportunity is determined, prior approval must be obtained from the Internship Coordinator, Mr. Hazelrigg (ejhazelrigg@vu.edu) Qualifications: To qualify for an internship, an undergraduate student must: 1. Be a senior (84 undergraduate credits prior to the internship semester). 2. Be enrolled in VCU and in the forensic science undergraduate program for at least one semester prior to the internship semester and throughout the internship. 3. Have completed 27 credit hours of the forensic science core curriculum, including FRSC 350, prior to the internship semester. 4. Have a cumulative GPA of at least Submit a completed internship application form by April 19 (for a summer or fall internship) or October 15 (for a spring internship). If either date falls on a weekend, the following Monday is acceptable. 6. Have two signed letters of recommendation. One letter must be from a Forensic Science fulltime faculty member; the second recommendation letter may be from another faculty member or another non-family individual. The letters must be submitted by the dates listed above. These letters should speak to the applicant's ability, attitude, and readiness for working. 7. Submit a one-page summary of your career aspirations, describing current and future goals. It must be typed and submitted with your application. Academic Credit Requirements: Interns earn academic credit through completion of the following requirements: 1. Enroll in FRSC 493 Forensic Science Internship. 2. Work 125 hours in the selected internship agency over one 15-week semester period or equivalent summer semester. 3. Attend three required meetings with the Internship Coordinator. The first meeting will include signing the internship contract and assignment of deadlines and must be completed prior to the beginning of the internship. The second meeting is for discussion of the mid-term Progress Report which must be submitted by the stated deadline. The third meeting is for the final evaluation. 25

26 FRSC 493: Forensic Science Internship (continued) 4. Maintain a Service Log of the hours worked. The log will have in columns from left to right a record of: dates, times at site, activities during each time period, and total time (total time must total at least 125 hours). The Log must be signed and dated by both the intern supervisor and intern and submitted to the Internship Coordinator at the end of the semester. 5. Complete and submit a one-two page written Progress Report by the deadline stated in the contract and schedule and attend a meeting with the Internship Coordinator to discuss the internship experience. This report should include the following information: narrative detailing the internship duties, including the positive and negative aspects of the internship. 6. Be evaluated by the internship supervisor at the end of the semester. Students provide the Department s evaluation form to the appropriate supervisor. 7. Write and submit a Reflective Paper by the stated deadline. The paper should be typed and five -seven pages in length. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar will be considered. This paper is to contain an assessment of your internship experience and your involvement with the organization. This could include topics such as: the main contribution you made to the organization as an intern, something you learned or observed and its link to a course(s) you have taken, a significant event of your internship (explain), the most positive and negative aspects of the internship, the most important thing you learned as an intern, additional learning needs you identified as a result of the internship, or how the internship helped you in pursuing your career goals (explain) Grading This is a pass or fail course. Students who complete required internship hours within the semester, complete all written work by the stated deadlines, attend required meetings on time and receive a satisfactory evaluation from his/her internship supervisor will receive a grade of "pass". Further Information Please contact the Internship Coordinator, Mr. Eric Hazelrigg, for further information. Mr. Hazelrigg can be contacted at: ejhazelrigg@vu.edu. 26

27 VCU Forensic Science Independent Study, FRSC 492 The Independent Study enables students to earn one to three academic credits per semester, for a maximum of six credits accepted for graduation, while gaining valuable hands-on forensic science-related research experience. The Independent Study supplements classroom learning, introduces new skills, and provides insight for future career planning. Students are responsible for arranging their own independent studies. Forensic Science faculty are a good source for suggesting opportunities. Once an independent study opportunity is determined, prior approval must be obtained from the Independent Study Coordinator, Mr. Hazelrigg (ejhazelrigg@vcu.edu). Qualifications To qualify for an independent study, an undergraduate student must be a junior or a senior Forensic Science major with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. Academic Credit Requirements Students earn academic credit through completing the following requirements: 1. Identify a supervising faculty member with whom he/she will conduct the independent study and agree on the general project and number of credits during the semester prior to performing the work. Enroll in FRSC 492 only AFTER meeting with the supervising faculty member and coming to an agreement. 2. Minimum hours of supervised activity are three hours per week per credit hour. The grading is lettergrade based. 3. Complete the Independent Study Request Form and a two to three page proposal. The proposal should detail the work in which the student will be engaged, including an introduction providing background information and the goals and/or objectives of the work; a description of the work to be performed; and a timetable for the conduct and completion of the work, including the submission of a final report. 4. The supervising faculty member will review the proposal and, upon accepting it, the student will forward the form and proposal to the Independent Study Coordinator for final authorization. He will inform the student and faculty member of the acceptance or rejection of the proposal. 5. All request forms must be submitted to the Coordinator by the end of the second week of the semester (or first week of the summer session). Students registered for Independent Studies who fail to meet this deadline will be dropped from the class the following Monday. 6. A final scholarly report must be submitted to receive a passing grade. The format and contents of the report are left primarily to the discretion of the supervising faculty member. The report should include in some form the following: an introduction providing background information and the goals and/or objectives of the work; a methods section; data with numbered tables, photos or figures, 27