Forensic Science Track in Entomology
The Department of Entomology now offers students the option of a Forensic Science Track in Entomology, approved by Texas A&M University President Dr. Robert Gates on November 17, 2004. This is the only official Forensic Science track offered at Texas A&M University. In fact, the Department of Entomology offers the only courses with “forensic” in the title, teaching both The Science of Forensic Entomology (ENTO 431) and Applied Forensic Entomology (ENTO 432) each spring to students from a variety of majors. These courses integrate other fields associated with forensic science to enhance the students experience with this content area.
Forensic science is a growing area of interest for students seeking to gain entry into a career that delves into the collection, preservation, and use of evidence to solve civil and criminal cases. There are internships, employment, and post-graduate studies available to students with an education specialty in forensic studies/science. The forensic science track in entomology provides the versatility to provide the education and training over a broad area of the sciences, as well as provide the interaction with professionals in the area.
The Science of Forensic Entomology and Applied Forensic Entomology have received quite a bit of media attention. In an interview with Channel 11 News this past spring, Dr. Jim Olson, Texas A&M University Entomologist and ENTO 431/432 professor, indicated that he tells his students that, “We have to remain unbiased. Actually, we gather the evidence and tell the story and many times it can exonerate as much as it can convict.” So, as students uncover clues surrounding the “bodies of evidence” revealed in these two courses, they learn not to pre-judge, and let the data tell the story of when and how the subject died, just as a true crime scene investigator must do.
If you are interested in pursuing this track, please contact a member of the Academic Advising Team to discuss the academic options available to you.
Related Links:
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences
- Austin Police Department Student Internship Application [PDF]
- European Forensic Entomology
- Forensic Entomology Pages, International
- Forensic Science Society
- International Society of Environmental Forensics
- North American Forensic Entomology Association
- Site with links to other forensic Web sites