The FEPAC-accredited forensic science graduate program at Marshall University is a two-year program leading to a Master of Science in Forensic Science.
Nationally the program is one of a limited number of accredited graduate-level programs, offering a unique opportunity for elite students like you to learn in and near accredited forensic testing and DNA data testing labs.
On-site research and service forensic laboratories at the Marshall University Forensic Science Center provide students with special opportunities to participate in the inner workings of a forensic laboratory.
The five-semester core curriculum with both thesis and non-thesis options with four areas of emphasis:
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Digital Forensics
- DNA Analysis
- Forensic Chemistry
While one area of emphasis is required, students may complete all four during the standard five-semester course study. Our program is ranked number one in student assessment on the Forensic Science Assessment Test and number four in a list of the top 5 schools in Master’s in Forensic Science.
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The FEPAC-accredited Forensic Science Graduate Program teaches the latest in the specialized field of Forensic Science.
Our esteemed program consistently ranks among the top Forensic Science programs in the country.
The two-year program offers both thesis and non-thesis options for completion of the program.
- Crime Scene Technician
- DNA Analyst
- Criminology Professor
- Analytical Chemist
- Forensic Scientist
- Detective
Admission Requirements
Admission Policy
Entrance into the Forensic Science Program is restricted to the fall semester only. Applicant materials should be submitted as early as possible for priority consideration for the fall term. The program observes a rolling admission policy so that individuals may apply at any time. Applicants will be considered for admission while openings remain available for the program. Students who apply early have a better chance of admission than those who apply later in the admission cycle; however, it is not uncommon for applicants to be notified throughout the year.
The complete application process includes:
- Submission of the Marshall University graduate application available online at www.marshall.edu/graduate/admissions/how-to-apply-for-admission.
- Completion of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after January 1 as possible at www.fafsa.gov.
- Submission of official transcript(s) documenting that the applicant has:
- Completed a bachelor’s degree in a forensic or natural science, computer science, computer electronic or electrical engineering, information systems or information technology (or its equivalent coursework in a relevant field) from an accepted, accredited institution of higher learning.
- Achieved an overall Grade Point Average of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale.
- Completed 1 academic year of biology and its associated labs with no grade of less than a C.
- Completed 1 academic year of general chemistry and its associated labs with no grade of less than C.
- Completed 1 academic year of organic chemistry and its associated labs with no grade of less than C.
- Completed 1 academic year of physics and its associated labs with no grade of less than C.
- It should be noted that successful completion of an undergraduate course in biochemistry is recommended, but not required, prior to entry into this program.
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
Applicants should achieve a score of 150 or higher on the verbal and quantitative sections and a score of 3.5 or higher on the analytical writing section. - Formal Letters
- Applicant’s personal statement providing reasons why he or she should be admitted to the Forensic Science program.
- 3 letters of recommendation on formal letterhead from individuals familiar with applicants’ moral character, academic acumen and aptitude, integrity, and work ethic.
Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA and/or GRE requirements may be considered for provisional admission, at the discretion of the program, when the capacity to admit provisional applicants exists. Full admission to the program, once an offer is made, is also contingent on successful completion of a background check, documentation of hepatitis B vaccination/titer or formal declination of vaccination, and receipt of other documentation required for enrollment.