Forensic Biology is the application of concepts and procedures used in the biological sciences, typically in a medico-legal context. Forensic biologists analyze cellular and tissue samples, as well as physiological fluids that are relevant to a legal investigation. These techniques can also definitively identify paternity/kinship relationships and are used to determine the manner, mechanism, cause and time of death.
A CHC degree in forensic biology includes an appropriate track of courses that will permit placement of graduates into reputable graduate programs in forensic science, molecular biology, and biotechnology. Majors with this degree also can and often apply to pre-professional schools in the allied health sciences and related health care professions.
Recent students have gone on to earn graduate degrees at several of the nation’s top universities including entry into competitive research programs as well as forensic science-specific graduate programs most recently at Arcadia University and George Mason University.
In addition, Chestnut Hill College sponsors a very successful annual Bio-medical Seminar Series, inviting prominent speakers in cutting-edge fields of basic and medical research. The series, which is close to celebrating 30 years of distinguished speakers, provides a forum to review and discuss recent advances in bio-medical research and fosters meaningful interactions with our neighboring major basic and medical research institutions. Eric Vey M.D., a forensic pathologist overseeing high-profile forensic cases in Western Pennsylvania, was an invited guest speaker in this excellent professional series.
