Forensic Science (HBSc)
UTM hosts Canada’s premier Forensic Science degree program. Dive into the study of physical evidence in a modern legal context, best defined as “science in service to the courts.” The unifying paradigm of Forensic Science is the search for truth and the meaning of evidence in both criminal investigations and through courts of law.
Courses are taught by professionals who bring their own expertise and unique field experience into the classroom. Professor Tracy Rogers, Director of the program, was the lead Forensic Anthropologist at the Pickton pig farm in BC, arguably Canada’s largest crime scene. And as a result, many UTM Forensic Science students have helped her and her team recover materials at the infamous site.
Our courses also provide you the opportunity to learn about all aspects of Forensic Science in the classroom and then apply your knowledge to practical assignments, such as in the Forensic Identification Field School, using state-of-the-art technology and instruments.
"Some of my fondest memories in the forensic program were the opportunities to apply the practical skills we were taught during our courses. The mock crime scenes in Forensic Identification courses and the Forensic Anthropology Field School were unparalleled learning experiences where I not only gained confidence in my crime scene processing skills but was also challenged become a better communicator and collaborator. "
- Andrew Mazurek, HBSc, Forensic Anthropology and Biology
Programs & Requirements
OUAC Program Code: TMK
Approximate Grade Range: Mid to high 70s (based on six Grade 12 "U" or "M" courses, including English (ENG4U) or equivalent)
Find requirements to other common curricula:
- International Baccalaureate
- U.S.-Patterned Education
- British-Patterned Education
- French Baccalaureate
- Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE)
Chart Legend: See bottom of page for prerequisites legend.
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Bio |
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F, Bio, Ch; (rec. C, Ph) |
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F, Bio, Ch; (rec. C, Ph) |
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F, Bio |
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Specialist
MajorExciting Opportunities
Crime Scene House
Investigate simulated crime scenes in a realistic setting. You’ll learn, through hands-on activities, how to preserve, document and process the scene using appropriate equipment and procedures.
Faculty
Many of our instructors and professors are practicing forensic scientists who are able to bring both their expertise and courtroom experiences to the classroom.
Field Schools
Through our two field schools, students experience the pressure of working in an intense environment while utilizing their critical thinking skills, and are also trained in equipment and software programs.
Courses You Would Love
Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation (FSC303H5)
This course is an introduction to forensic photography, crime scene processing, and forensic identification. Students learn about fingerprint identification, evidence, and more.
Forensic Anatomy (FSC316H5)
Learn about the role of the body in crime scene analysis, autopsy procedures such as fingerprinting and forensic imaging of the deceased, and address anatomical anomalies useful for purposes such as identification.
Forensic Toxicology (FSC402H5)
Formulating successful marketing strategies requires an understanding of consumers' cultures, motivations, cognitions, and emotions. Students will learn how to use theoretical perspectives from psychology, economics, anthropology, and other disciplines to generate predictions.
Intro to 3D Crime Scene Mapping And Reconstruction (FSC406H5)
This course introduces students to both standard and innovative methods of documenting, mapping, analyzing, and visualizing/reconstructing a crime scene for investigative purposes.
Discover Your Potential
Nina Harnarine, HBSc, Forensic Biology
Nina is a Forensic Document Examiner with Forensic Examiners Inc., examining and comparing writing, signatures, printing, and initials. In addition, she identifies mechanical impressions and instruments including typewriters, chequewriters, stamps, printers, photocopiers and fax machines.
Read more about Nina Harnarine
Read more Forensic Science alumni profiles
Vivienne Luk, Assistant Professor, Forensic Chemistry
Dr. Luk, came to UTM from the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto, where she worked as a Forensic Toxicologist. As a forensic toxicologist, she analyzed biological samples for the presence of drugs, alcohol and poisons and interpreted toxicological findings for the purposes of medical and legal investigations.
Read more Forensic Science faculty profiles
Forensic science undergraduate puts new roadside drug test device through its paces
For decades police have had a roadside device to test potential drunk drivers, but until recently there have been no such devices for suspected drugged drivers. With the legalization of cannabis, the federal government, in the interest of public safety, approved such a device.
Even More to Explore
Program Plans are quick and accessible overviews of the many academic and co-curricular opportunities available to help you get the most out of your UTM experience.
Created by our Career Centre, the Careers by Major database identifies some potential career fields, how to gain related skills and experience, and useful resources and job samples. But always remember, your program of study doesn't have to determine your career!
On this edition of the View to the U podcast, Tracy Rogers, Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology, discusses her broad program of research that touches on several areas, including identifying skeletal remains, analyzing bone composition, and investigating skeletal health.
| Chart Legend: | Bio = Biology C = Calculus & Vectors Ch = Chemistry F = Advanced Functions Fr = French Ita = Italian M = Mathematics of Data Management Math = One of the Grade 12 U Maths Ph = Physics |
/ = or , = and rec. = recommended approx. = approximate Sp = Specialist program Ma = Major program Mi = Minor program |
