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.
The Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law program provides a comprehensive
understanding of the interplay between scientific investigation and the legal system.
131 (BS Biochemistry) (26 MS Forensic Science and Law) 157 Total Credits
Hear From An Alum
"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 CrawfordForensic Science and Law, '18Request Info
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
2024
30
25
83%
2023
32
26
81%
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
Number of enrolled students
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
Percentage of students who were unreachable or didn't respond
Total %
2024
145
56% (6 months post-grad)
8%
0%
64%
2023
152
84%
4%
12%
88%
2022
159
84%
8%
8%
92%
2021
147
93%
7%
0%
100%
2020
143
81%
13%
6%
94%
2019
146
89%
6%
5%
95%
Research Opportunities
As a student in Forensic Science and Law, you'll have the opportunity to dive into
a multitude of forensic science disciplines and techniques tailored to your interests.
As a student in Forensic Science and Law, you'll have the opportunity to explore a
wide range of forensic science disciplines and techniques tailored to your interests.
Our faculty members specialize in diverse research areas, including DNA analysis and
interpretation, sexual assault and violence cases, as well as fire and explosives
investigations. Engaging in research is not just encouraged—it's a requirement for
majors, with the department providing financial support for your projects.Explore the research conducted by our Forensic Science and Law students at our previous
graduate research symposiums.
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
CHEM 211 Organic Chemistry I (3 credits)
CHEM 211L Organic Chem Lab I (1 credit)
PHYS 201 Physics Life Science I (3 credits)
PHYS 201L Physics Lab I (1 credit)
BIOL 212 Cell and Molecular Biology (4 credits)
BIOL 212R Cell and Molec Bio Rec (0 credits)
ENGL 302W Scientific Writing (3 credits)
EQ xxx Essential Questions Seminar (3 credits)
FORE 205 FIRST Colloquium (0 credits)
Spring Semester
CHEM 212 Organic Chemistry II (3 credits)
CHEM 212L Organic Chem Lab II (1 credit)
PHYS 202 Physics Life Sciences II (3 credits)
PHYS 202L Physics Lab II (1 credit)
MATH 225 Biostatistics I (3 credits)
FORE 201 Phil Ethics of Law (2 credits)
IFSL 200 FSL UG Seminar II (1 credit)
FORE 206 FIRST Colloquium (0 credits)
Fall Semester
CHEM 340 Instrumental Analysis (3 credits)
CHEM 401 Biochemistry I (3 credits)
CHEM 301 Phys Chem Life Sci (4 credits)
MATH 335 Biostatistics II (3 credits)
FORE 410 Forensic Invest I (2 credits)
FORE 301W Wrongful Convictions (2 credits)
FORE 300 Professional Dev I (0/1 credits)
Spring Semester
CHEM 371W/R Forensic Chem Lab (3 credits)
CHEM 402 Biochemistry II (3 credits)
CHEM 305 W/R Advanced Lab Skills (1 credits)
FORE 479 Forensics Molec Biology (3 credits)
FORE 411 Forensic Invest II (2 credits)
BRDG 105 Intro to Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)
FORE 320 Professional Dev II (0/1 credits)
Fall Semester
CHEM 514W/R Adv Forensic Chem Lab (3 credits)
FORE 530W DNA Methods/Pop Gen (4 credits)
FORE 401 American Legal History (1 credit)
FORE 402 Torts (1 credit)
BIOL 577 Forensic Human Genetics (3 credits)
FORE 540 Constitutional Crim Proc (1 credit)
Bridges course - Cultural Fluency/Theology (3 credits)
SPRG 108 Service Learning in Science (0 credits)
FORE 400W Professional Dev III (1 credit)
FORE 480 Independ Research Forensics (1 credit)
CHEM 691 Seminar 0 (or SP)
Spring Semester
FORE 585 Crim Case Review & Evidence Admis (1 credit)
FORE 510Ethics in Forensic Sci/Prof Resp (1 credit)
FORE 522 QA & Lab Admin Management (2 credits)
FORE 420W Professional Dev IV (1 credit)
FORE 480 Independ Research Forensics (1 credit)
FORE 535 Evidence/Case Management (1 credit)
Bridges course - Social & Hist Reasoning/Phil (3 credits)
General Elective (3 credits)
Fall Semester
FORE 501 Trace Evid/Environmental (3 credits)
FORE 521 For DNA Anly/Interpretation/Statistics (3 credits)
FORE 513 Firearm Examination and Identif (2 credits)
FORE 525 Forensics Toxicology (3 credits)
FORE 545 Explosives & Ars Investigations (2 credits)
FORE 555 Expert Qualification (1 credit)
FORE 630 Chem/Tox/Ars App Lab (1 credit)
FORE 640 Research Defense (1 credit)
FORE 660 Forensic Science & Law Comp (0 credits)
IFSL565 Forensic Pathology (1 credit)
Learning Outcomes
Professional and ethical concepts: The student will exhibit an understanding of professional, ethical and bias concepts
throughout their college education.
Science and the Law: The student will display an understanding of the intersect between forensic science
and law and demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between law enforcement,
attorneys (Prosecution and Defense), other stakeholders, and crime laboratory scientists.
Comprehensive science and math foundations: The student will master foundational knowledge of comprehensive science and math coursework
in order to advance to the 3rd year and above.
Apply scientific principles and knowledge: The student will be able to apply scientific principles to forensic science and law
problems in a research and laboratory setting.
Adapt to Advances and Changes: The student will achieve an appreciation of the advancements and changes in the forensic
sciences, particularly with regards to accreditation standards and innovative technologies,
and be able to adapt to those changes.
Forensic Community Involvement and Contribution to the Profession: The student will have skills and a level of knowledge that will allow him/her to be
a significant contributor to furthering the science of forensics through active engagement
in cutting edge research and presentation of their findings at local, state, regional
and national forensic and/or scientific meetings.