There are many different types of forensics degree requirements a person may have to meet as he pursues education in this field. They might include prerequisites for entering a program and courses a person must take to graduate. For example, microbiology and forensic chemistry courses are commonly required for this type of program. Other requirements could include learning activities in which a person must participate outside of a traditional classroom, such as laboratory studies, research projects, and internships. Some programs also require students to prepare a thesis or dissertation.
Among the most common forensics degree requirements are those regarding previous education. Educational prerequisites vary based on the school and program as well as the type of degree a person seeks. In most cases, a person who wants to earn a bachelor's degree in forensic science will only need a high school diploma or General Educational Development® (GED®) certificate to enter the program, and the same requirements usually exist for those seeking associate's degrees. Sometimes, however, master's and doctoral programs require more preparation. For example, many programs require individuals to earn a degree prior to entrance and to take some advanced science courses before applying.
Forensics degree requirements also include those a person must fulfill during his studies. Most programs have mandatory classes a student must take to obtain a degree as well as electives he can choose. Though each program may vary, an individual will likely have to take courses in such subjects as molecular biology, forensic serology, forensic chemistry, the law as it pertains to forensics, anatomy, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). A person might also study courtroom testimony, forensic photography, and crime investigation procedures as part of a forensics program.
Some forensics degree requirements extend beyond classroom learning. For example, many programs include a research component or require a student to complete an internship while others require a student to prepare and defend a thesis. Forensics degree requirements might also include laboratory studies, examinations, and the preparation of a dissertation. Usually, undergraduate degrees are focused mainly on classroom and laboratory learning while graduate-level degrees typically include additional work such as performing research, participating in internships, and preparing a thesis or dissertation.
Laboratory-related forensics degree requirements usually include specific laboratory classes a person must take to earn a degree in this field. Degree programs often require students to learn about laboratory procedures and tests used in forensics as well as ways to analyze and report results. A student may also have to learn about the various tools used in a forensics lab, including microscopes, scanners, cameras, and magnifying tools.
