University of Montana Catalog 2023-2024

Forensic Studies Certificate

The Certificate in Forensic Studies is designed so that students may complete the requirements either as resident students at UM-Missoula or completely online through UM-Missoula's online facility.

To earn a certificate in Forensic Studies the student must complete a minimum of 18 credits, including 6 credits in core forensic science courses.

Post-secondary Certificate - Forensic Studies

Summary

Core Courses6
Science Electives6
Communication Elective3
Ethics Elective3
Total Hours18

 

Degree Specific Credits: 18

Required Cumulative GPA: 2.0

Note: The Certificate in Forensic Studies is primarily designed as a step toward a baccalaureate degree for those interested in a career in the forensic sciences or a related field. It is also designed as an avenue for law enforcement agents, forensic scientists, or other professionals in the justice system to satisfy mandatory continuing education requirements for continued employment or promotion.

Core Courses

Complete all of the following courses:
CJUS 125NFundamentals of Forensic Science3
CJUS 488Forensic Science the Crime Lab and Beyond3
Total Hours6

Minimum Required Grade: C-


Science Electives

Complete six credits in courses with a suffix of "N" (courses that have been designated as University of Montana- Missoula General Education Group XI, Natural Sciences) in any department. Any Criminology courses offered through the Sociology department also count towards meeting this requirement. Courses numbered under 100 may not be counted toward meeting this requirement. Please speak with your advisor about which courses may meet this requirement.6
Total Hours6

Minimum Required Grade: C-


Communication Elective

Complete one 3-credit course related to written, oral, or pictorial communication, including selected courses in Art, Curriculum & Instruction, Communication Studies, Computer Science, Forestry, Journalism, Linguistics, Media Arts or any intermediate or advanced writing course. Courses numbered under 100 may not be counted toward meeting this requirement. WRIT 101 will not be accepted as fulfilling this requirement. Please speak with your advisor about which courses may meet this requirement.3
Total Hours3

Minimum Required Grade: C-

Ethics Elective

Complete one 3-credit course that has been designated as a University of Montana - Missoula General Education Group VIII (Ethics and Human Values) course in any department.3
Total Hours3

Minimum Required Grade: C-