2010-2011 University Catalog
Forensic Science, MS
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Banner Code: SC-MS-FRSC
his program of study is offered by the College of Science .
The interdisciplinary MS program in Forensic Science is designed to train students in the technical and legal aspects of the field, and it is especially relevant for the many area professionals holding positions in government and private laboratories specializing in the analytical investigation of criminal and terrorist activities. Graduates will be qualified to work in high-technology forensics laboratories that analyze and interpret a wide variety of evidence and data in support of investigations and prosecutions. The demand for graduates with these skills is especially strong in the Northern VA region, where several new FBI and police forensics labs are being built or expanded.
The degree requires 21 credits of core courses covering crime scene analysis and fundamental forensic concepts, and an additional 6-9 credits of forensic science electives. Students also complete either a 3 credit research project or a 6 credit MS thesis for a total of 33 program credits. A unique element of the program is the “Forensics Capstone Course,” which is taken by all students in the program. In this class, students will combine their skills as members of interdisciplinary investigation teams as they analyze “real world” crime scenes.
The curriculum outlined below has been designed to meet the standards of the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) of the American Academy of Forensic Science. Students enrolled in this professional MS program are charged at a differential (premium) tuition rate, and therefore they may not enroll concurrently in any other graduate degree program or certificate program offered by COS, with the exception of the graduate certificate program in Forensics. However students enrolled in academic programs outside COS may enroll in this certificate program concurrently.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Forensic Science MS program should hold a BA or BS degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Applicants should submit the a completed GMU graduate application, official score reports for the GRE-GEN exam, three letters of recommendation, two copies of official transcripts from each institution of higher learning attended, a current resume, a Virginia Domicile Classification form, and an official report of TOEFL (foreign nationals only). |