Forensic Science, Biology Concentration
Certificate of Achievement Biological Science · Victor Valley College · 2026-2027 Catalog
State Control Number: 44585
Program Code: BIOL.FSBC.CA
Program Length: 24 months
Approved for Federal Financial Aid: Pending
The Forensic Science, Biology Concentration Certificate of Achievement prepares students to apply the principles and methods of biology and chemistry to legal investigations and the criminal justice system. The program develops technical competency in areas such as biological evidence analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis, time-of-death estimation, DNA and serology, trace evidence, and forensic pathology.
Students gain hands-on experience through coursework that bridges laboratory science and real-world forensic application, including collaboration with local law enforcement agencies. This certificate is well-suited for students entering the field directly or preparing for transfer to a four-year program in forensic science, biology, or a related discipline.
Career pathways for graduates include criminalist, forensic laboratory technician, forensic biology analyst, crime scene investigator, and forensic consultant. Advanced positions in forensic science, research, and law typically require a bachelor's or graduate degree in the natural or physical sciences.
Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| Complete all of the following with a C or better | ||
| Group 1 | ||
| BIOL 145 | Forensic Pathology | 3.0 |
| BIOL 146 | Principles of Forensic Biology | 4.0 |
| BIOL 221 | General Microbiology | 5.0 |
| BIOL 231 | Human Physiology | 5.0 |
| BIOL 295BH | Biological Research II - Experimental Design | 4.0 |
| Group 2 | ||
| Complete 4.0 units from the following courses | 4.0 | |
| BIOL 118 | Principles of Heredity | |
| BIOL 295CH | Biological Research III - Research Design & Analysis | |
| ANTH 107 | Introduction to Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology | |
| CJ 67 | Crime Scene Investigation | |
| Total Units | 25 | |
Program Map
Suggested Plan of Study
Career, salary, and labor market data information. (https://research.com/advice/forensic-science-degree-careers-skills-education-salary-job-outlook#:~:text=The%20forensic%20science%20degree%20salary,goals%20for%20growth%20and%20stability.)