Innovation Week Spotlight: UCO’s Forensic Science Institute

As OKCID’s 3rd Annual Innovation Week approaches, we are excited to spotlight the University of Central Oklahoma’s W. Roger Webb Forensics Science Institute (UCO FSI). They have been part of every Innovation Week since its inception, offering students a unique opportunity to connect with a field they may not have otherwise considered. 

UCO FSI offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines a forensic science major with another major of the student’s choosing including programs like biology, chemistry, digital evidence, and criminal justice.

Dr. Rhonda Williams, Ph.D., Associate Professor at UCO FSI, highlights that while forensics has historically been deemed a male-dominant field, the program consistently sees 70-75% female students each semester.  

"A lot of people are told that they’re not good at science, especially girls... [UCO] exposes them to what science can be because it’s not just one thing." By providing supportive and inclusive educational opportunities, FSI aims to broaden participation in forensic science and demonstrate its diverse applications.  

Real-world expertise and Hands-On Learning  

UCO FSI allows for dual majors, with forensic science as a core focus, but students are not limited to combining it with criminal justice. They have the flexibility to explore a wide range of fields, including forensic art and beyond.

With endless possibilities, the program empowers students to tailor their education to their unique interests, making UCO’s offerings truly distinctive. 

UCO FSI is focused on advancing forensic practices through research and innovation. "Our goal is that these [research] projects we’re doing will help innovate the laboratories... show them what techniques are doing well right now and [help] reduce backlogs," says Williams.  

This approach ensures that students receive a broad education, preparing them for various roles in the forensic field. The program includes both theoretical coursework and practical training, utilizing the latest facilities. 

What UCO FSI Brings to Innovation Week  

For Innovation Week, UCO FSI will offer students the opportunity to participate in fingerprinting activities, where they can dust and lift their own prints. This hands-on exercise allows students to experience a basic forensic technique firsthand.  

Alongside these activities, Science Museum Oklahoma will provide demonstrations of science basics. The combination of student-led experiments and professional demonstrations offers a practical way of giving students exposure to real-world applications and encouraging interest in STEM fields. 

Click here if you would like to learn more about the UCO’s Forensic Science Institute.