Top HBCU Forensic Science Programs: Shaping Future Leaders in Criminal Justice

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been committed to educating African American students, and with increased funding, their programs, including those in criminal justice and forensic science, are gaining prominence. These institutions offer unique educational experiences, specialized classes, and a focus on justice reform, preparing students for impactful careers.

The Rise of Forensic Science Programs at HBCUs

There is a tremendous need for individuals with specialized training in forensic science. As technology advances, more focus has been given to forensic science, making the role played by forensic scientists critical to our justice system in providing accurate scientific information to investigators and the courts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that job growth in Forensic Science is predicted to be near 20 percent over the next six years. Forensic Science is one of the high-need subject areas in STEM fields at the national level.

Featured Programs and Initiatives

Central State University: An Interdisciplinary Approach

Central State University’s Interdisciplinary Forensic Studies minor gained national attention when Dr. Erin Lynch, host of WeHBSeeU TV on the QEM Network, visited the campus to interview undergraduate researchers and faculty members. Lynch and her documentary film crew filmed students and professors for an episode of Forensic Files, highlighting how HBCUs are preparing the next generation of forensic scientists and researchers.

Students at Central State demonstrate forensic methods through a mock crime scene, illustrating the step-by-step processes used in forensic investigations, from documentation to evidence collection and analysis. They walked the film crew through procedures such as scene security, photography, sketching, fingerprinting, and the handling of physical and biological evidence. Faculty members explained how these hands-on exercises mirror professional forensic protocols and reinforce classroom instruction.

According to senior Aniyah Cavitt, a sociology and psychology double major with a forensic studies minor, participating in the documentary was an opportunity to share the program’s growing impact. After graduation, Cavitt plans to apply for forensic positions at all three Bureau of Criminal Investigation offices in Ohio.

Chemistry professors Dr. Suzanne Seleem and Dr. Leanne Petry emphasized how the program connects scientific principles with real-world justice applications. Seleem noted that many students are motivated by lived experiences in their communities and a desire to pursue justice.

The forensic studies minor was launched during the 2023-24 academic year with support from a nearly $400,000 National Science Foundation HBCU Undergraduate Program grant. Dr. Genevieve Ritchie-Ewing, associate professor of sociology and anthropology at Central State and one of the program’s founders, explained that the grant enabled the university to enhance coursework by acquiring professional-grade tools and materials used in crime scene analysis, forensic science, and forensic anthropology.

The campus visit and documentary filming were discussed on the Central State University Podcast, hosted by Dr. Cyril Ibe, CSU Land-Grant interim communications coordinator, who interviewed Lynch, faculty members, and program leaders. Lynch praised CSU students for their preparation and professionalism.

Senior Jonathan Foster, a sociology and criminal justice double major with a forensic studies minor, said the national exposure provided by the documentary could inspire future students. He emphasized that the program’s emphasis on hands-on learning sets it apart.

University President Dr. Morakinyo Kuti highlighted Central State’s commitment to expanding research capacity across disciplines, noting that investments in academic programs, infrastructure, and experiential learning opportunities are central to preparing students for graduate study and the workforce.

Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO)

Located in the Department of Natural Sciences, the Forensic Science program is designed to effectively train students to prepare them for advanced degrees and to join the workforce in areas related to Forensic Science, including DNA analysis, drug chemistry, and firearms. The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree requires the completion of 121 credit hours of core and Forensic Science coursework. The program has been developed in order to provide students with the types of skills and information that are necessary for success in Forensic Science. SUNO also offers a number of specialized courses specifically related to forensic science.

Albany State University

The Department of Criminal Justice at Albany State University offers a 30 semester hours Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice delivered both face-to-face and fully online with concentrations in Law Enforcement, Corrections, Forensic Science and Public Administration. The M.S. degree program is designed to prepare students for professional careers within the criminal justice system and related fields. The educational mission of the M.S. in Forensic Science degree program at ASU will advance the University, division and college missions by preparing qualified majors to pursue professional careers in the forensic sciences. The Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Science is the only four-year Forensic Science degree program in Georgia and is housed in the Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science. Our Forensic Science program is accredited by the American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFC) accreditation body-Forensic Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods to crime scene investigation and criminal prosecution. The program is interdisciplinary and is based on the natural sciences; chemistry, physics and biology. The Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science degree has been developed in order to provide students with the types of skills and information that are necessary for success in forensic science. The program includes sequences in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology.

Other Notable HBCU Programs

Bowie State University (Bowie, MD): Offers an online degree and an off-site degree option at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland. Two active organizations on campus provide students with additional opportunities to engage with their criminal justice career aspirations: The Criminal Justice Club and Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society.
Morris College (Sumter, SC): Offers students majoring or minoring in Criminal Justice a comprehensive coursework program as well as hands-on application of theory and principles through a state-of-the-art criminal forensics laboratory, field experiences, as well as formal internships with various law enforcement agencies. Students can also minor in Criminal Forensics Studies at this HBCU.
North Carolina Central University (Durham, NC): NCCU's Department of Criminal justice offers Criminal Justice B.S. and M.S. degrees. NCCU's School of Law offers students courses in criminal defense, law, procedure, and prosecution.
Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View, TX): Students can earn a B.S. in Criminal Justice. The College of Juvenile Justice undergraduate program leads to a B.S. in Criminal Justice with five concentrations and graduate degrees (M.S. and Ph.D.) in Juvenile Justice.
Shaw University (Raleigh, NC): Shaw students can earn a B.A. in Sociology with a concentration in criminal justice.
Alabama State University: Offers a program in Forensic Biology.
Howard University: Offers a BS in Forensic Science.

Why Choose an HBCU for Criminal Justice or Forensic Science?

Specialized Classes: Criminal justice programs at HBCUs often include specialized classes that explore issues in Black and other historically underrepresented communities. For example, the criminal justice major at Bowie State University requires a course on race, class, gender, and criminal justice. Additionally, HBCUs often offer courses focused on community relations with police.
Various Justice Reform Approaches: HBCUs are often at the front lines of criminal justice and policing reforms. For example, Dillard University’s criminal justice program emphasizes understanding the policing and criminal justice systems as they relate to the Black community. In 2020, Lincoln University of Missouri became the first HBCU to open a police academy.
Affordability: Since HBCUs have traditionally served students with limited access to education and resources, they generally prioritize charging lower-than-average tuition and offer more scholarship opportunities.

Career Opportunities

HBCUs with criminal justice majors can prepare you for many jobs, such as emergency management director, forensic science technician, and police officer. Forensic science graduates can find rewarding forensic science bachelor degree jobs.

Standard Criminal Justice Courses

Standard criminal justice courses include criminal investigations, corrections, and juvenile justice. You usually learn about the judicial system, criminal law, and policing. Many programs also include introductory courses in criminology and psychology.

Read also: Top HBCU Bands

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