The Master of Science degree in Forensic Science is a Purdue University degree offered in the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program.
Forensic science is the application of scientific methods and processes to matters that involve crime or the public. The Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program combines the best of biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, along with criminal justice and law.
The M.S. in Forensic Science requires 30 credit hours of study beyond the baccalaureate level. The non-thesis option can be completed in one year if you enroll full-time. It is designed for students seeking careers as professional forensic scientists who desire employment in the criminal justice field or a related area.
Understanding the requirements
Non-thesis option
Students must apply in one of the following concentrations: forensic chemistry or forensic biology. Here are the required courses:
- Core courses (16 credits)
- FIS 50500 - Current Issues in Forensic Science (3 credits)
- FIS 50600 - Advanced Forensic Microscopy (3 credits)
- FIS 51500 - Legal Issues in Forensic Science (3 credits)
- FIS 59700 - Lab Project Design (3 credit)
- FIS 50800 - Forensic Science Laboratory Management (2 credits)
- LAW D774 - Law and Forensic Science (2 credits)
- Additional required courses for forensic biology concentration (14 credits)
- FIS 52100 - Forensic Biology (3 credits)
- FIS 52101 - Forensic Biology Lab (2 credits)
- FIS 53000 - Population Genetics (3 credits)
- BIO 50700 – Molecular Biology
- Biology elective
- Additional required courses for forensic chemistry concentration (14 credits)
- FIS 51100 - Forensic Chemistry I (3 credits)
- FIS 51101 - Forensic Chemistry I Lab (1 credit)
- FIS 51200 - Forensic Chemistry II (3 credits)
- FIS 51201 - Forensic Chemistry II Lab (1 credit)
- CHEM 696 - Special Topics in Chemistry
- Chemistry elective
To learn more about our faculty and their areas of research, visit the research page.
When you are ready to apply, check out our admissions requirements.