The Indiana University Board of Trustees approved two new degrees during its December meeting.
In response to needs outlined by community partners, IU Northwest will offer a new Bachelor of Science in forensic science. The interdisciplinary program uses existing resources from the School of Public and Environmental Affairs, as well as the chemistry and biochemistry, biology and anthropology programs.
The degree will prepare students to become forensic analysts, technicians or forensic experts through a rigorous program that includes science- and policy-based courses. It will also address regional and state needs for more forensic scientists.
Trustees also approved a collaborative online education specialist in school psychology degree for IU East, IU Kokomo and IU South Bend. IU Bloomington also offers the degree and is extending its existing on-campus program to online availability in joining the other collaborating campuses. The program aligns with the graduate preparation standards of the National Association of School Psychologists by requiring 65 hours of coursework and a supervised internship that includes a minimum of 1,200 clock hours.
The program reduces barriers for students by offering both synchronous and asynchronous online courses. Indiana has a shortage of qualified school psychologists, and the new degree will boost the number of professionals qualified for those positions.
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education must give the degrees final approval.
