Alumnus Brad Baugh Speaks Out!
Brad Baugh - graduate of the UF Forensic Science Distance Learning Programs - answered questions for students interested in forensic science studies at Oregon State University on Friday. Forensic Science seems to be such a hot topic these days any information sessions like this easily generate a lot of interest on college campuses. It will be interesting to hear the kinds of questions that were raised while Brad was visiting the campus. I, for one, am interested to know if more people are beginning to better understand that forensic science education requires a strong background in hard sciences. Many of my liberal arts students still ask me how to gain access to a criminalist position without really knowing the necessary prerequisites. Unfortunately, many are too advanced in their undergraduate careers to take on much of the coursework necessary to begin a masters degree in forensic science as well.
Brad - hope it went well! Keep us posted…
October 16th, 2007 at 3:38 pm
Hi,
I think I am learning I should not travel. I caught the good old common cold while in Oregon, so I am just now able to respond without contaminating my computer with a real virus.
I had a very pleasant discussion with faculty and students at Oregon State University. They have a pathway in forenics in their chemistry undergraduate program. They are very much hands on in their chemistry courses and I hope they will look at offering some seminars for the west coast.
There were several questions and among them was the old question of background between the “on Scene” investigator and the lab professional. I explained that I felt that their chemistry background would serve them well in the U of F program if they were looking at future work in the labs. Also, that the U of F offered some non-lab courses that might be of interest to those looking at the field work.
None of the questions were a surprise. In fact most are the ones we have shared amongst ourselves over the years. Where do I find jobs? What kind of background do I need? Why are their certifications and graduate degrees? Is e-learning easy or hard? Is the quality of the courses as good as on campus?
As I explained to the faculty and students I have no connection with the U of F other than being a graduate of the program and that I am a firm believer in its global approach and its over-all quality. I also feel the strong correspondance we have with current and past students can only help with job searches and finding answers to lab questions, etc. is one big plus for our forensic program.
The participants were given the website address and told to contact the staff or a faculty member if they had further questions.
This was a rather fast trip and contact with OSU, but I hope something develops as I think they would be an asset to our global approach.
I am talking to a group of nurses at Washington State University in the near future and forensic nursing is real hot at this time …
Oh, I did explain what the “Gator Nation” is ….
November 2nd, 2007 at 3:43 pm
I’ve always been fond of forensics and forensic research.. very fascinating!
December 13th, 2007 at 6:48 pm
I will visit Oregon and Florida, so I had some nice prereading here.
Also nice to read the comments on the divers articles.
GL