College of Science Dean's Office
BS in Forensic Science
The College of Science offers two undergraduate degrees in forensic science: Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry. To declare a major in forensic science, students must have an overall GPA of at least 2.5 and a math/science GPA of at least 2.5. Both degrees are very rigorous and contain at least 86 semester hours in science and mathematics. Many forensic scientists work in crime laboratories. For example, a forensic biologist usually specializes in DNA analysis or continues to medical school to pursue a career as a medical examiner; a forensic chemist analyzes non-biological trace evidence found at crime scenes in order to identify unknown materials and match samples to known substances.
In order to find employment in the forensic science field, you need a master’s degree. At the present time, UTEP does not offer a graduate degree in forensic science; however, a master’s degree in Biology with an emphasis on DNA analysis or a masters in chemistry with an emphasis on gas chromatography and spectrophotometry will prepare you for work in a forensic lab. A GPA of at least 3.0 is required for graduate school.
Pre-Health Professions Undergraduate Certificate
The Pre-Health Professions Undergraduate Certificate is designed so that students who have already graduated can return to The University of Texas at El Paso and take courses required for medical, dental, veterinary, PA, and Pharmacy schools. Students majoring in non-STEM disciplines could also complete the course work required for medical, dental, veterinary, and PA schools. A minimum GPA score of 3.5 is required for acceptance into this certificate program.
Fast Track to Graduate Programs
The College of Science offers fast-track to graduate school programs in bioinformatics,biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. This allows students to take graduate courses that count toward both an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree. Details are located at the web site http://www.science.utep.edu
The University of Texas at El Paso
College of Science
Chemistry and Computer Science Building
500 W University
El Paso, Texas 79902
Phone: 915.747.8027
Email: science@utep.edu