Program Overview
The Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law program provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between scientific investigation and the legal system. Accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission, the program prepares students for careers in forensic science and law through a rigorous curriculum that includes coursework in scientific principles, legal aspects, and research. Graduates are equipped with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for success in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Science and Law program is fully accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between scientific investigation and the legal system.
Objectives:
- To develop students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the context of forensic science and law.
- To provide students with a strong foundation in the scientific principles and techniques used in forensic science.
- To familiarize students with the legal aspects of forensic science, including courtroom procedures and expert testimony.
- To prepare students for careers in forensic science and law, or for further academic pursuits in these fields.
Outline:
Year 1
- Fall Semester
- IFSL 100 Undergraduate Seminar I (1 credit)
- FORE 105 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
- CHEM 151 Atomic and Molecular Principles (4 credits)
- CHEM 151L Intro Chemistry Lab I (1 credit)
- MATH 115 Calculus I (4 credits)
- BIOL 111/L Biology I/Lab (4 credits)
- BRDG 101 Writing and Analysis (3 credits)
- BRDG 100 Research & Information Skills (1 credit)
- Spring Semester
- FORE 106 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
- CHEM 152 Quantitative Analysis (4 credits)
- CHEM 152L Quantitative Analysis Lab II (1 credit)
- MATH 116 Calculus II (4 credits)
- BIOL 112/L Biology II/Lab (4 credits)
- BRDG 102 Writing and Literature (3 credits)
- FORE 101 Forensic Science & Criminal Law
Year 2
- Fall Semester
- FORE 205 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
- CHEM 211/L Organic Chemistry I/Lab (4 credits)
- PHYS 201/L Physics for Life Sciences I/Lab (4 credits)
- ENGL 302W Scientific Writing (3 credits)
- EQ xxx Essential Questions Seminar (3 credits)
- MATH 225 Biostatistics I (3 credits)
- Spring Semester
- IFSL 200 Undergraduate Seminar II (1 credit)
- FORE 206 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
- CHEM 212/L Organic Chemistry II/Lab (4 credits)
- PHYS 202/L Physics for Life Sciences II/Lab (4 credits)
- BIOL 212/R Cellular & Molecular Biology & Recitation (4 credits)
- FORE 201 Phil Ethics of Law (2 credits)
- Forensic Science and Law Undergraduate Seminar II (1 credit)
- FORE 320 Professional Development II (0/1 credit)
Year 3
- Fall Semester
- CHEM 340 Instrumental Analysis (3 credits)
- CHEM 401 Biochemistry I (3 credits)
- CHEM 301 Physical Chemistry for Life Sciences (4 credits)
- MATH 335 Biostatistics II (3 credits)
- FORE 410 Forensic Investigation I (2 credits)
- FORE 301W Wrongful Convictions (2 credits)
- FORE 300 Professional Development I (0/1 credit)
- Spring Semester
- CHEM 371W/R Forensic Chemistry Laboratory & Recitation (3 credits)
- CHEM 402 Biochemistry II (3 credits)
- CHEM 305/305R Advanced Skills Lab (1 credit)
- BIOL 479 Forensic Molecular Biology (3 credits)
- FORE 411 Forensic Investigation II (2 credits)
- BRDG 105 Intro to Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)
- FORE 320 Professional Development II (0/1 credit)
Year 4
- FORE 402 Torts (1 credit)
- BIOL 568 Human Genetics (3 credits)
- BRDG Cultural Fluency & Responsiveness (3 credits)
- SPRG 108 Service Learning in Science (0/1 credit)
- FORE 400W Professional Development III (1 credit)
- FORE 480 Independent Research Forensics (1 credit)
- CHEM 691 Seminar (0 credits)
- Spring Semester
- FORE 510 Ethics in Forensic Science & Professional Responsibilities (1 credit)
- FORE 522 Quality Assurance & Lab Administration Management (2 credits)
- BRDG Social & Historical Reasoning (3 credits)
- GEN General Elective or THEO/PHIL (3 credits)
- FORE 420W Professional Development IV (1 credit)
- FORE 480 Independent Research Forensics (1 credit)
- BIOL 490 Seminar (1 credit)
- BIOL Elective (300+, BS trk) (3 credits)
Year 5
- FORE 540 Constitutional Criminal Procedure (1 credit)
- FORE 541 Latent Print Analysis (1 credit)
- IFSL 565 Forensic Pathology (1 credit)
- FORE 500 Internship (optional) (0 credits)
- Spring Semester
- FORE 511 Forensic Drug Analysis (2 credits)
- FORE 513 Firearms & Toolmarks (2 credits)
- FORE 525 Forensic Toxicology (2 credits)
- FORE 535 Evidence/Case Management (1 credit)
- FORE 545 Explosives & Arson Investigations (2 credits)
- FORE 555 Expert Qualification (1 credit)
- FORE 630 Chemistry/Toxicology/Arson Application Lab (1 credit)
- FORE 640 Research Defense (1 credit)
- IFSL 600 Graduate Professional Seminar (1 credit)
Assessment:
Students in the Forensic Science and Law program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Papers
- Presentations
- Projects
- Lab reports
- Portfolios
Teaching:
The Forensic Science and Law program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Labs
- Fieldwork
- Research projects The program also offers a number of opportunities for students to engage in research, including:
- Independent research projects
- Research assistantships
- Thesis and dissertation writing
Careers:
Graduates of the Forensic Science and Law program are prepared for a wide range of careers in the field, including:
- Forensic scientists
- Crime scene investigators
- Forensic toxicologists
- Digital forensic analysts
- Law enforcement officers
- Legal professionals
- Scientists and researchers The program also prepares students for further academic pursuits, such as doctoral studies in forensic science or law.
Duquesne University
Overview:
Duquesne University is a Catholic university with a Spiritan tradition, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It boasts a national reputation for academic excellence and has been recognized as a "first-tier university," "top 100 undergraduate school," and "Most Popular." The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across ten schools of study.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Duquesne University is situated in the heart of Pittsburgh, a city known for its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant atmosphere. Students have access to Fortune 500 companies, non-profit organizations, startups, and three major league sports teams, all within a short distance from campus.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
Duquesne University is renowned for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to innovation.Real-World Experience:
The university's location in Pittsburgh provides students with numerous opportunities for real-world experience through fieldwork, clinicals, research projects, and internships.Strong Alumni Network:
Duquesne University has a strong alumni network that provides support and connections for students and graduates.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of student organizations, clubs, and events.Academic Programs:
Undergraduate Majors:
Duquesne University offers over 85 undergraduate majors leading to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.Graduate Programs:
The university offers over 110 graduate and certificate programs designed to enhance professional skills and knowledge.Other:
- Duquesne University is an R2 institution, which means it is a high-research activity university.
- The university is ranked #3 in the Northeast for R2 institutions producing the most high-earning female alumni under 40 in the U.S.
- Duquesne University is committed to providing students with a strong foundation in ethics and service.
- The university has a strong focus on experiential learning and preparing students for successful careers.
