Forensic Science (M.S.)

Bringing together in-depth study and real-world experience, Towson University’s master’s in forensic science gives you the knowledge and skills to land top jobs in forensic science.

Why Earn a Master’s Degree in Forensic Science?

Designated by the Council of Graduate Schools, the master’s in forensic science combines chemistry, biology and mathematics to give you advanced scientific and laboratory training. Classes emphasize a molecular biology-based approach with a focus on DNA analysis, providing a comprehensive and in-depth study of the major areas of forensic science, including crime scene investigation and physical evidence analysis.

You’ll learn to apply your knowledge of analytical chemistry, molecular biology, population genetics, forensic biology and DNA technologies to the laboratory, gaining superior skills in instrumental methods, microscopy and materials analysis. You’ll also study quality assurance and the ethical and legal issues related to the profession.

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 rare 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 and 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

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Contact Information

Program Director

Mark Profili

Location

Science Complex
Room 4301 E

Hours

By Appointment

Phone

410-704-2668

mprofili@towson.edu