Career Guide
Forensic Science
Forensic Science is the application of science to law, and includes many disciplines and career paths. Forensic scientists work in crime laboratories, government agencies, hospitals, universities, and private organizations. Professionals in this field test weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to an investigation. They may testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. They may also serve as specialists in such areas as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, biochemistry or criminal psychology and can receive certification in areas like forensic odontology. Another related area is Crime Scene Investigation. These professionals typically gather evidence/data and begin the processing of a crime scene.
Degree Requirements
Forensic Scientists often have degrees in chemistry, biology, or forensic science. A Bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions; a Master’s degree or Ph.D. may be required for some. Crime Scene Investigators typically have a bachelor’s degree in a natural science with a concentration in law enforcement/crime scene processing, or a criminal justice degree with a minor in natural science. Specialized forensic science careers include: forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, forensic entomology, forensic psychiatry, forensic odontology, forensic engineering, forensic psychology, forensic archeology, and toxicology.
MCC Prerequisite Courses
SUNY Brockport
Follow SUNY Brockport's guide for the A.S. in Biology to B.S. in Forensic Science. This outlines courses to take at MCC as well as courses you will take at SUNY Brockport.
Typical prerequisites for other Forensic Science programs:
- BIO 155 Introduction to Cell & Molecular Biology
- BIO 156 Introduction to Organismal Biology & Ecology
- CHE 151 General College Chemistry I
- CHE 152 General College Chemistry II
- CHE 251 Organic Chemistry I
- CHE 252 Organic Chemistry II
- CRJ 101 Intro to Criminal Justice
- MTH 175 Precalculus
In addition to general education coursework, the courses below may also transfer for the Forensic Science major:
- CRJ 201 Principles of Investigation
- MTH 160 Statistics I
- MTH 210 Calculus I
- PHY 145 & 146 College Physics I & II or PHY 161 & 261 University Physics I & II
Transfer college prerequisite requirements vary. Research each institution for specific information and to verify course transferability. All courses listed above may not be required to be completed at MCC prior to transfer.
Institutions
Forensic Science Major
- SUNY Brockport
- Roberts Wesleyan University
- Syracuse University – Integrated Learning Major (ILM) that may be pursued in conjunction with a variety of other majors including Anthropology, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Linguistics, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, and Sociology. See individual majors of interest for determining transferable coursework from MCC.
Forensic Science Technology Major
Forensic Chemistry Major
Crime Scene Investigation Major
Other Important Information
Note: While every effort is made to ensure that the information in this guide is accurate, students are advised to contact transfer institutions for specific course requirements and the most up-to-date information.
Updated 09/23/2025