Dr. Lori Wilson, director of EKU’s forensic science program, is the latest guest on the YesCollege.com podcast, which strives to spotlight exemplary academic programs and “demystify” higher education for its listeners.
On the April 2 installment of the 30-minute weekly program, hosted by YesCollege founder Scott Hawksworth, Wilson defines the forensic science field, discusses career possibilities, talks about why accreditation is critical, discusses common pitfalls for students, and more.
The entire podcast may be heard at https://yescollege.com/episode/025-wilson/.
At EKU, students can earn a bachelor of science degree in forensic science and pursue a concentration in forensic chemistry or forensic biology. The forensic chemistry option prepares students for careers in public and private sector crime laboratories, while the forensic biology concentration is best suited for students interested in DNA testing and biology work.
The University’s forensic science degree program was established in 1974, making it one of the longest-standing programs in the U.S. In 2003, the EKU forensic chemistry program gained accreditation from the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) of the American Academy of Forensic Science. Today it is one of only 18 undergraduate programs nationwide to hold the FEPAC accreditation.
In 2010, the EKU Department of Chemistry launched the University’s first 3+2 graduate program, which combines all baccalaureate degrees, including the B.S. forensic science degree with the M.S. chemistry degree. The move to EKU’s new Science Building in 2011 has also boosted the program, allowing for improved classroom and laboratory spaces.
“We have made it our mission to continually review and advance our program, guaranteeing that it stays in line with current trends and methodologies of the industry,” Wilson said. “We employ a mix of academic and forensic practitioners, which prepares students for successful employment. Our internship initiative, sourcing industrial placements for students within science-related organizations, is designed to maximize their ‘recruiting’ potential to prospective companies. In addition, we offer a capstone experience where senior students apply skills garnered throughout the program. Students process a ‘mock’ crime scene, from evidence collection to expert witness testimony. Our newly renovated crime scene house provides the perfect location to stage real- to-life scenes that brings together the student’s knowledge in an imaginative, exciting and challenging way.”