Who Should Pursue a Master in Forensics Degree?
The degree may suit your future career goals if you are either already working in the following fields or seeking a career in them:
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Crime laboratories
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High school science teacher
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Pharmaceutical industry
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Hospital and clinical chemistry laboratories
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Criminal defense and prosecution attorneys
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Police departments
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Medical examiners offices
Master in Forensic Science Degree
Forensic science has evolved rapidly over the past few decades. From an applied science used to analyze fingerprints, blood type, and material analysis; it has developed into a cutting edge discipline. It now employs sophisticated computer and laboratory methods to obtain conclusive results on evidential materials; these methodologies demand precision. Furthermore, as expert testimony is now more closely scrutinized, the need for graduate training in forensic science has grown. You now need a master's degree in forensic science to assume leadership positions in crime laboratories. The information provided below is typical of many programs, but there may be differences at each school.
Admission Requirements
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A bachelor's degree in a science subject from an accredited institution
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A minimum cumulative GPA
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GRE scores
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TOEFL (for international applicants)
Curriculum Requirements
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Completion of 32 credits
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Maintenance of a cumulative GPA
Required Core Courses
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Forensic Toxicology
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Principles of Forensic Science
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Biological Evidence and Serology
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Applied Statistics for Data Analysis
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Forensic Lab
Required Courses
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Special Topics in Forensic Science
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Literature Survey (Forensic Science)
Elective Courses
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Forensic Medicine I, II
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Natural Medicinal Products
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Metabolic Biochemistry
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General Toxicology
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Forensic Entomology
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Forensic Genetics
Learning Objectives
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Prepare students for future employment in forensic science laboratory careers
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Promote critical thinking skills
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Maintain the ethical standards of forensic science
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Present curriculum based on real world examples
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Present research results at forensic science society seminars
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Publish thesis research in peer reviewed forensic science journals
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Focus on innovative Master of Science (M.S.) thesis research
Areas of Concentration
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M.S. in Forensic Drug Chemistry, Forensic DNA & Serology, and Forensic Science
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M.S. in Forensic Toxicology
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M.S. in Biomedical Forensic Sciences
M.S. in Biomedical Forensic Sciences
The degree is for aspiring forensic scientists, and may qualify them to apply for the following positions:
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Crime Scene Responders
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Death Investigators
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Chemists
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DNA Analysts
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Forensic Scientists
Career Options
Forensic Science Technicians
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that forensic science technicians need at least a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or natural sciences. An applicant with a master's degree in forensic science may, therefore, be more employable. The BLS reported them earning a median yearly salary of $52,840 in 2012, and their positions are expected to grow at the rate of 6%, which is faster than the average for all other positions from 2012 to 2022. Pursuing a master's degree in forensic science may be a career enhancing career move. Professionals in forensic science help law enforcement officers nab the right culprit and keep innocent suspects out of prison. They make our streets safe and play a critical role in our society.