Master of Forensic Sciences
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Master of Forensic Sciences Program
Whether you are seeking a career specifically in the forensic sciences or hoping to advance your skills in law enforcement, lab work, law, investigation, or another profession, you’ll learn valuable and applicable skills in this leading-edge field with a Master of Forensic Sciences. The program is grounded in the study of basic human anatomy, components of death investigation, analysis of disease and trauma, and identification of unknown dead persons. You’ll learn how to professionally interact with forensic pathologists and investigators, and how to apply scientific methods to the resolution of legal problems.
The master’s in forensic science program provides two areas of specialization. The specialization in Criminalistics includes courses in trace evidence, advanced forensic toxicology, advanced forensic serology and DNA, forensic anthropology and archeology, and more. The specialization in Investigation focuses on advanced forensic investigative techniques for the field, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the concepts underlying the forensic sciences.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Course Details
Course Listing
Core Requirements
- 8 courses; 36 quarter units
Forensic terminology, anatomy, and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the understanding of the underlying pathology of sudden, unexpected deaths encountered in forensics, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), methods personal identification and different types of injuries with their characteristic features and mechanisms of death.
Prerequisite: FSC 630
The scientific techniques used in Medicolegal investigations of regional injuries and death, firearm injuries transportation injuries, physical injuries, trauma and disease, child abuse, sexual assaults, diagnosis of rape, pregnancy, abortion and delivery. Infanticide, asphyxial and drug deaths. Forensic medical evidence and records for the court.
The study of the application of the methods and techniques of skeletal remains identification and physical anthropology to medicolegal problems. This course presents the protocol of forensic anthropology when analyzing human remains. Assessment of human or non-human; time since death and cause of death.
This principles and techniques of film and digital photography as applied to crime scenes, forensic evidence, identification, and court presentation. Emphasis is on single lens reflex film or digital camera operation with various types of lighting. Legal aspects of forensic photography and courtroom presentations.
A comprehensive study of the techniques and procedures used for approaching and protecting the crime scene, survey and documentation, detailed search of the scene, initial evidence collection and packaging, processing the scene for latent prints and maintaining the chain-of-custody. The legal and scientific principles of crime scene searches and seizures.
Introduction to basic principles and techniques of fingerprints as applied to crime scenes, forensic evidence, identification, and court presentation. Methods of recognition, proper collection of known and latent fingerprints, processing, classification and comparison. Courtroom presentations will be discussed.
This course will provide broad perspective on theory, technique and practice of digital evidence investigation. Different types of digital related crime, including fraud, stalking, identity theft, and internet related crimes. Chain of custody and current legal issues on digital evidence.
This course is an examination of the foundation for understanding Constitutional laws. The course will cover various sections of the Constitution and how law enforcement officials may obtain evidence and conduct a search and seizure.
*Students will be required to obtain their own photographic equipment, which must meet the requirements of the course. All digital cameras to be used must meet the same standards as film based forensic cameras, which includes: interchangeable lenses, manual settings for shutter and aperture, and the ability to use an external, off camera electronic flash attachment.
**This is a two-month, one-meeting-per week course with a significant research component. Grading is by H, S, or U. Students who do not complete the Research Project within the two month period are eligible, at the discretion of the instructor, to receive a grade of “IP” with a maximum of a one time six-month extension. Students who do not complete the project at the end of the extension period will need to retake FSC 662. No grade of “I” (Incomplete) can be given for this course.
Program Electives
- 1 courses; 4.5 quarter units
Students can take courses with the preapproval of the Faculty Advisor who should be consulted prior to scheduling of any elective. The following is recommended:
A project-based course where students work under close faculty guidance and supervision on particular topics of interest. Grading is by H, S, or U only.
Specializations
This Specialization in Criminalistics requires that students have an undergraduate degree in physical science (chemistry, biology or chemistry/biology, laboratory science) or approval of the Academic Program Director. The program culminates in a supervised master’s research project directed by full-time faculty and a committee of associate and core adjunct faculty selected by the students from their program.
Program Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Apply the technical procedures and methods of collection, preservation, chain of custody, analysis, comparison and report preparation of the biological, trace and toxicological evidentiary evidence.
Degree Requirements:
Program Requirements
- 4 courses; 18 quarter units
FSC 632 Trace Evidence 4.50
FSC 633 Advanced Forensic Toxicology 4.50
FSC 634 Forensic Serology and DNA 4.50
FSC 636 Advanced Forensic DNA Analysis 4.50
Prerequisite: FSC 634
This Specialization in Investigation is designed to provide graduate education in the most current and advanced forensic investigative techniques available in the field, with a wide understanding of the concepts underlying the forensic sciences. This program is suitable for those students who are interested in pursuing a career in forensic crime and death investigations. The program also allows individuals who are currently working in forensic investigation areas to develop and upgrade their individual educational skills. The program also includes forensic-related writing and research. The program culminates in a supervised master’s research project directed by full-time faculty and a committee of associate and core adjunct faculty selected by students from their program.
Program Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Apply the technical procedures and methods of collection, preservation, chain of custody, analysis, comparison and report preparation of the biological, trace and toxicological evidentiary evidence.
- Evaluate the legal and psychological issues involved in competency to stand trial, diminished capacity, and insanity defenses.
- Apply profiling knowledge and crime scene analysis methods to crime scene variables.
- Analyze the legal, ethical, and constitutional tensions between the interests of society, and the rights of individuals in connection with various criminal procedures and contexts.
- Utilize theories, techniques and practices to all criminal and civil investigation.
Degree Requirements:
Program Requirements
- 4 courses; 18 quarter units
FSC 620 Advanced Criminalistics 4.50
FSC 643 Forensic Psychology 4.50
FSC 622 Law and Criminal Procedure 4.50
FSC 631 Major Case Investigation 4.50
Degree and Course Requirements
To receive an MFS, students must complete at least 54 quarter units of graduate coursework. A total of 13.5 quarter units of graduate credit may be granted for equivalent graduate work completed at another institution, as it applies to this degree and provided the units were not used in earning another advanced degree. Students should refer to the section on graduate admission requirements for specific information regarding application and evaluation.
Students must have an undergraduate degree in a laboratory science in order to enroll in the MFS with a specialization in criminalistics. The MFS with a specialization in investigation does not have a specific major requirement for the undergraduate degree.
For students in the BS in Criminal Justice Administration/MFS transition program, the University will waive the forensic sciences course(s) taken as part of the bachelor’s degree (see BS in Criminal Justice transition program), but these students must still meet the residency requirements for the MFS.
Students should consult the academic director to determine at what point in the sequence they may enter the program.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Explain basic human anatomy, component of death investigation and techniques used for analysis of diseases and trauma, identification of unknown dead bodies; and to professionally interact with the forensic pathologist and medico-legal death investigators.
- Apply the technical procedures and methods of collection, preservation, chain of custody, analysis, comparison and report preparation of the biological, trace and toxicological evidentiary evidence.
- Analyze the basic principles and the role of crime scene investigators in forensic and legal procedures.
- Apply the basic principles of forensic photography, and explain the legal issues related to forensic photography and courtroom or trial presentation.
- Evaluate the legal and psychological issues involved in competency to stand trial, diminished capacity, and insanity defenses.
- Understand friction ridge skin differential development and how it applies to the classification of fingerprints and the methodology used in forensic individualization.
- Utilize theories, techniques and practices to all criminal and civil investigation.
- Use investigative techniques in the processing and interpretation of evidence of computer and multimedia forensics.
- Analyze the legal, ethical, and constitutional tensions between the interests of society, and the rights of individuals in connection with various criminal procedures and contexts.
- Integrate scientific research methodology to explore issues in forensic science.
NU’s Public Safety Promise
National University, a Veteran-founded nonprofit, is proud to support public safety professionals who protect and serve our communities every day. To show appreciation, we commit to providing affordable, accessible education to all public safety professionals to advance their careers and help them reach educational goals through our Public Safety Promise Scholarship*.
To learn more about NU’s Public Safety Promise contact an enrollment advisor to discuss degree programs and scholarship options or visit https://nu-edu-develop2.go-vip.net/our-university/the-university/partnerships/publicsafety/ .
*Nursing, radiation therapy, and doctoral programs are excluded from the tuition discount.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Earning a Master’s in Forensic Science can be worth it if it aligns with your interests and career goals. Holding an advanced degree in this field can open up a variety of job opportunities in crime labs, medical examiner’s offices, and law enforcement agencies.
In the master’s program in Forensic Sciences at NU, you’ll study human anatomy, components of death investigation, analysis of disease and trauma, and identification of unknown dead persons. You will also be able to choose from two specializations: Criminalistics and Investigation.
Yes, you can become a forensic scientist with a master’s degree, but you may only need a bachelor’s degree to get started in an entry level position. Master’s degrees are generally required for more advanced positions and managerial roles. With a master’s degree in forensic science, you may be qualified for job positions such as forensic lab manager, DNA analyst, detective, crime scene investigator, or forensic accountant.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for forensic science technicians in 2022 was $63,740. It is important to note this is a median figure and that forensic science professionals with a master’s degree and more experience may earn $100,000 or more per year.
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.