Forensic Science and Law

Discover New Possibilities at the Intersection of Science and Law 

The Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Science and Law program is fully accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission. As a student of the program, you will explore a wide range of forensic science techniques, from crime scene investigation and forensic toxicology to DNA analysis and forensic pathology. Alongside these scientific explorations, you will gain a deep understanding of the legal aspects surrounding forensic science, including courtroom procedures and expert testimony.

Our carefully crafted curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, ensuring you develop the critical skills necessary for success. Engage in cutting-edge research projects, collaborate with faculty experts, and analyze forensic evidence in state-of-the-art laboratories. Through immersive learning experiences, you will hone your expertise in forensic evidence analysis, criminalistics, digital forensics and more.

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Program Information

The Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law program provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between scientific investigation and the legal system.

Program Type

Dual Degree

Degree

Master's

Academic Department

Forensic Science and Law

Duration

5-year

Required Credit Hours

150

Hear From An Alum

A picture of Kallie Crawford

"While at Duquesne, I was involved in a number of student organizations, externships, and conducted research - all of which has allowed me to carve my own career path. My unique experience and opportunities are what distinguish me from my peers and make me a competitive job candidate."

Kallie Crawford Forensic Science and Law, '18
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Prepared For Anything

Graduate Education

Upon earning a Master's degree in Forensic Science and Law, diverse career opportunities in both public and private sectors await you. Our graduates are forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, forensic toxicologists, and digital forensic analysts, contributing their expertise to the justice system through expert analysis and testimony. Moreover, our program acts as a solid foundation for those considering further academic pursuits, opening doors to advanced graduate studies or doctoral research in the captivating fields of forensic science and law.

Taylor and Sarah share their experiences conducting hands-on research alongside their supportive faculty mentors, obtaining internships at some of the country’s best forensic labs and investigative organizations while living on the Bluff with their Duquesne family.

Graduation Rates

Year of Graduation Number of students entering the 3rd year Number of students graduating the 5th year Percentage of students earning the Master of Science Degree
2022 32 25 78%
2021 17 15 88%
2020 21 16 76%
2019 20 18 90%
2018 19 16 84%
2017 25 21 84%

 

Employment Rates

Year of Graduation

Percentage of Students employed between 12-18 months in a forensic science and/or science-related position

Percentage of students continuing their education in law, medicine, or research

Total %

2022 84% 8% 92%
2021 93% 7% 100%
2020 81% 13% 94%
2019 89% 6% 95%
2018 69% 31% 100%
2017 95% 5% 100%

Suggested Course Sequence

Suggested course sequence for the Forensic Science and Law program.

Our curriculum integrates specialized coursework with practical training, paving the path for your success. By combining theoretical foundations with hands-on experiences, we ensure that you are well-prepared to thrive in the ever-evolving world of forensic science.

To assist in achieving your academic goals, we recommend the following course sequence.

Please consult the Academic Integrity Policy for the Forensic Science and Law Program, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate regulations.

Fall Semester
  • IFSL 100 Undergraduate Seminar l (1 credit)
  • FORE 105 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
  • CHEM 151 Atomic and Molecular Principles (4 credits)
  • CHEM 151L Intro Chemistry Lab I (1 credit)
  • MATH 115 Calculus I (4 credits)
  • BIOL 111/L Biology I/Lab (4 credits)
  • BRDG 101 Writing and Analysis (3 credits)
  • BRDG 100 Research & Information Skills (1 credit)

Spring Semester
  • FORE 106 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
  • CHEM 152 Quantitative Analysis (4 credits)
  • CHEM 152L Quantitative Analysis Lab II 1
  • MATH 116 Calculus II (4 credits)
  • BIOL 112/L Biology II/Lab (4 credits)
  • BRDG 102 Writing and Literature (3 credits)
  • FORE 101 Forensic Science & Criminal Law
Fall Semester
  • FORE 205 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
  • CHEM 211/L Organic Chemistry I/Lab (4 credits)
  • PHYS 201/L Physics for Life Sciences I/Lab (4 credits)
  • ENGL 302W Scientific Writing (3 credits)
  • EQ xxx Essential Questions Seminar (3 credits)
  • MATH 225 Biostatistics I (3 credits)

Spring Semester
  • IFSL 200 Undergraduate Seminar ll (1 credit)
  • FORE 206 FIRST Colloquium (1 credit)
  • CHEM 212/L Organic Chemistry II/Lab (4 credits)
  • PHYS 202/L Physics for Life Sciences II/Lab (4 credits
  • BIOL 212/R Cellular & Molecular Biology & Recitation (4 credits)
  • FORE 201 Phil Ethics of Law (2 credits)
  • Forensic Science and Law Undergraduate Seminar Il (1 credit)
  • FORE 320 Professional Development Il (0/1 credit)
Fall Semester
  • CHEM 340 Instrumental Analysis (3 credits)
  • CHEM 401 Biochemistry I (3 credits)
  • CHEM 301 Physical Chemistry for Life Sciences (4 credits)
  • MATH 335 Biostatistics II (3 credits)
  • FORE 410 Forensic Investigation I (2 credits)
  • FORE 301W Wrongful Convictions (2 credits)
  • FORE 300 Professional Development I (0/1 credit)

Spring Semester
  • CHEM 371W/R
  • Forensic Chemistry Laboratory & Recitation (3 credits)
  • CHEM 402 Biochemistry II (3 credits)
  • CHEM 305/305R Advanced Skills Lab (1 credit)
  • BIOL 479 Forensic Molecular Biology (3 credits)
  • FORE 411 Forensic Investigation II (2 credits)
  • BRDG 105 Intro to Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)
  • FORE 320 Professional Development Il (0/1 credit)
Fall Semester
  • CHEM 514W/R Advanced Forensic Chemistry Laboratory & Recitation (3 credits)
  • BIOL 530W DNA Methods/Population Genetics (4 credits)
  • FORE 402 Torts (1 credit)
  • BIOL 568 Human Genetics (3 credits)
  • BRDG Cultural Fluency & Responsiveness (3 credits)
  • SPRG 108 Service Learning in Science (0/1 credit)
  • FORE 400w Professional Development III (1 credit)
  • FORE 480 Independent Research Forensics (1 credit)
  • CHEM 691* Seminar (0 credits)

Spring Semester

  • FORE 510 Ethics in Forensic Science & Professional Responsibilities (1 credit)
  • FORE 522 Quality Assurance & Lab Administration Management (2 credit)
  • BRDG Social & Historical Reasoning (3 credits)
  • GEN General Elective or THEO/PHIL (3 credits)
  • FORE 420W Professional Development IV (1 credit)
  • FORE 480 Independent Research Forensics (1 credit)
  • BIOL 490 Seminar (1 credit)
  • BIOL Elective (300+, BS trk)** (3 credits)
Fall Semester
  • FORE 501 Trace Evidence & Environmental (3 credits)
  • FORE 521 Forensic DNA Analysis/Interpretation/Statistics (3 credits)
  • FORE 540 Constitutional Criminal Procedure (1 credit)
  • FORE 541 Latent Print Analysis (1 credit)
  • FORE 550 Journal Club/Research (1 credit)
  • FORE 610 Trace Evidence Application Lab (1 credit)
  • FORE 620 Serology/DNA Application Lab (1 credit)
  • FORE 650 Adv DNA Tpcs/Non-Human DNA (1 credit)
  • IFSL 565 Forensic Pathology (1 credit)
  • FORE 500 Internship (optional) (0 credits)

Spring Semester
  • FORE 511 Forensic Drug Analysis (2 credits)
  • FORE 513 Firearms & Toolmarks (2 credits)
  • FORE 525 Forensic Toxicology (2 credits)
  • FORE 535 Evidence/Case Management (1 credit)
  • FORE 545 Explosives & Arson Investigations (2 credits)
  • FORE 555 Expert Qualification (1 credit)
  • FORE 630 Chemistry/Toxicology/Arson Application Lab (1 credit)
  • FORE 640 Research Defense (1 credit)
  • IFSL 600 Graduate Professional Seminar (1 credit)

Questions? Contact Us!

Pamela Marshall

Director and Associate Professor

Forensic Science and Law

Pam Marshall