Program Overview
Forensic Science, MS
The Master of Science program in forensic science is designed for individuals who wish to enhance their lab skills and research proficiency in the field of forensic science. This program provides students with an excellent foundation in the forensic sciences, applying innovative research to make an impact in the science community.
Program Description
In this program, students acquire extensive, hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge in various forensic disciplines. They engage in faculty-led research projects that cover a wide variety of forensic science topics, developing practical skills and contributing to state-of-the-art research. The curriculum cultivates a strong scientific mindset, focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for careers in forensic science.
At a Glance
- College/school: New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location: West Valley
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
Accelerated Program Options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree.
Degree Requirements
- 32 credit hours and a thesis, or
- 32 credit hours including the required applied project course (FOR 593)
- Required Core (8 credit hours)
- FOR 505 Advanced Forensic Biology (3)
- FOR 506 Advanced Forensic Biology Laboratory (1)
- FOR 507 Advanced Forensic Chemistry (3)
- FOR 508 Advanced Forensic Chemistry Laboratory (1)
- Other Requirements (4 credit hours)
- FOR 591 Seminar (1)
- FOR 500 Research Methods (3)
- Research (6 credit hours)
- FOR 592 Research (6)
- Electives (8 credit hours)
- Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
- FOR 593 Applied Project (6)
- FOR 599 Thesis (6)
Admission Requirements
- General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
- Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, anthropology, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
- Applicants are required to submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
Tuition Information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application Deadlines
- Fall: Rolling deadline
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MS program in forensic science are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. They may pursue employment in the field immediately after graduation; the skills and knowledge gained through the program also provide a strong foundation for those interested in further academic research or teaching positions. Graduates may pursue roles in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, legal firms, and private forensic consulting firms. They are well-suited for employment in positions such as:
- Crime scene lab analyst
- Crime scene technician
- DNA analyst
- Fingerprint technician
- Forensic chemist
- Forensic science technician
- Forensic scientist
- Toxicology-based position
Additional Information
The program emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and professional standards in forensic science, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. Students are well-positioned to contribute to advancements in forensic science and make meaningful contributions to the field. The 24-Month STEM OPT Extension is an additional benefit from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services that allows international students in F-1 status who receive a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in an approved STEM field to apply for a 24-month extension of their standard 12-month Post-OPT period, twice in a lifetime. This allows international students the opportunity to gain additional off-campus work experience in their field of study after completion of course studies and Post-OPT. The OPT extension does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.