MS in Forensic Science

Admissions Requirements

In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, applicants must meet the following program requirements:

  • Baccalaureate Field BS in physical, biological, or pharmaceutical sciences (chemistry or biochemistry recommended). Minimum of one semester analytical chemistry and one semester physical chemistry. Instrumental analysis, biochemistry, and additional physical chemistry desirable.
  • Grade Point Average At least 3.00/4.00 overall. Applications are strengthened by 3.25/4.00 overall GPA and 3.00/4.00 GPA in core science and mathematics courses.
  • Tests Required GRE General Test; applications are strengthened by scores corresponding to 65th percentile or higher in verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing.
  • Minimum English Competency Test Score
    • TOEFL 100, with subscores of Reading 20, Listening 20, Speaking 21, and Writing 21 (iBT Test); 60, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Writing 21 (revised Paper-Delivered Test), OR
    • IELTS 6.5, with subscores of 6.0 for all four subcategories, OR,
    • PTE-Academic 59, with subscores of Reading 59, Listening 49, Speaking 59 and Writing 59.
  • Letters of Recommendation Three required.
  • Personal Statement Required.

Degree Requirements

In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, students must meet the following program requirements:

  • Minimum Semester Hours Required 38.
  • Course Work
Required Courses
Forensic Science: Survey and Foundations
Forensic Analysis of Biological Evidence
Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence Analysis
Physical Pattern Evidence Analysis
Forensic Drug Analysis and Toxicology
Expert Witness Testimony and Courtroom Demeanor
Forensic Science Seminar (minimum of two hours)
Electives
Select 9–12 hours in the student’s area of interest. a
a

May include 2–4 hours of internship (BPS 592), or up to 12 hours of residency (BPS 590) for those interested and who are accepted by the host agencies. 

  • Thesis, Project, or Course-Work-Only Options Thesis required. No other options are available.
    • Thesis: Thesis students must earn at least 6 hours in BPS 598.