Forensic Science (M.S.)

Why Earn a Master’s Degree in Forensic Science?

The Master of Science in Forensic Science (MSFS) program is the only program accredited by the Forensic Science Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) in the state of Maryland. The program has an application-focused curriculum that provides students an educational background and development of forensic science laboratory skills. Students can choose either the DNA track with a focus on genetic analysis or the Forensic Analytical Chemistry track with a focus on drug analysis, trace analysis, and toxicology. All students must complete a forensic research project or thesis. 

The core curriculum includes courses in forensic chemistry, forensic biology, crime scene processing, ethics, legal issues, expert testimony, and research project preparation and completion. Elective courses provide a comprehensive and in-depth study of the major areas of forensic science, including forensic death analysis, next generation sequencing, firearms and toolmarks analysis, advanced microscopy, and laboratory management. Students may choose an internship with a professional forensic science laboratory. 

The Forensic Analytical Chemistry track courses emphasize advanced scientific and laboratory training where students apply their knowledge of forensic analytical chemistry and instrumental analysis. The DNA track courses emphasize forensic biology and DNA technologies to gain superior skills in genetic sequencing and body fluid analysis. All laboratory work is done by the student in a hands-on environment.

Graduates are prepared for positions as working forensic scientists in business, industry and government as seen by this report on Student Achievement: Graduate Employment and Ph.D./Medical School Acceptance (PDF).

Women Advancing Forensics

Watch this video of forensic science graduate student Haley Fallang interviewed at the International Symposium on Human Identification.

Admission and Degree Requirements 

View admission requirements and deadlines to apply to the forensic science master’s program. View degree requirements and course descriptions in the Graduate Catalog.

You can learn more about the program in the Forensic Science Masters Research Manual (DOCX) and the Forensic Science Masters Handbook (PDF) and get general information about graduate studies at Towson University. 

Mission Statement and Learning Outcomes

View mission statement and learning outcomes in the Graduate Catalog. 

 

Why Towson University?

Program Advantages

• small classes with exceptional student-faculty interaction
• hands-on laboratory and internship experiences
• 92% job placement rate
• accommodates working professionals and full-time students with a variety of later afternoon and evening classes

Fully Accredited

Towson University has one of the few forensic science master’s programs in the country which is fully accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). This accreditation ensures high quality academics, an emphasis on hands-on learning, and practical, job-focused training.

Qualifications for Careers and Internships in Forensic Science

Because forensic science is part of the criminal justice system, personal honesty, integrity, and scientific objectivity are paramount. Those seeking careers in this field should be aware that background checks similar to those required for law enforcement officers are likely to be a condition of employment. The following may be conducted and/or reviewed before an employment or internship offer is made and may remain as ongoing conditions of employment (this list is not all inclusive): Drug Tests, History of Drug Use, Criminal History, Personal Associations, Driving Record, Past Work Performance, Credit History, Medical or Physical Examination.
Reference: NIJ Report NCJ 203099