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Program at a Glance

Type
Online Master’s
College
Sciences

Costs
$327.32
Per Credit Hour

16
Week
Terms
Term Calendar
32-34
Credit
Hours
Credit Hour Clock

Costs
$1,151.72
Per Credit Hour

16
Weeks
Terms
Term Calendar
32-34
Credit
Hours
Credit Hour Clock
Most Innovative University 2022


Play a vital role in forensic investigations to help solve crimes and serve justice.

Harness the full potential of forensic science to make an impact in crime resolution. This expanding field is full of opportunities for passionate students who want to make a difference.

UCF Online’s Master of Science in Forensic Science was developed as a diverse, innovative program that is responsive to our deepening understanding of how science and technology can be leveraged to resolve crimes. With three different concentrations — forensic professional, forensic analysis, and forensic biochemistry — you’re able to focus on the area you’re most passionate about. You’ll emerge prepared to harness the power of modern forensic topics and technologies to lead forensic investigations.

This online program is designed for both practicing professionals and full-time students. Led by internationally recognized experts in the field, your master’s in forensic science will prepare you to advance within this highly interdisciplinary science. With both thesis and nonthesis options, you can earn your degree in forensic science in as little as two years. Get started today.

Chemist looks at a flask

Highlights

STEM icon
STEM-designated master’s program

Alternative Forensic Programs

The Forensic Science, MS program is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in forensic chemistry, forensic biology, forensic biochemistry applications and holding an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, forensic science, statistics or physics. Explore one of our degrees or certificates for alternative forensic specializations.

Application Deadlines

Fall

March 1


Ready to
get started?

Application
Deadlines

Fall

March 1

Ready to
get started?

Course Requirements

In order to earn your Master of Science in Forensic Science, you’ll need to complete 32-34 credit hours and decide if you’re going to pursue the thesis or non-thesis track.

Number of Core Classes

You can choose from three different tracks; each track offers its own unique curriculum. Each track requires nine core credits. The remaining 23 – 25 credits are comprised of electives or thesis hours depending on the track you pursue. Details per track include:

Forensic Professional Track – 9 credit hours of core courses, 24 credit hours of elective courses and an additional one credit hour capstone experience which requires independent research and a report.

Forensic Analysis Track – 9 credit hours of core courses, 15 credit hours of elective courses and an additional eight credit hours of thesis research.

Forensic Biochemistry Track – 9 credit hours of core courses, 15 credit hours of elective courses and an additional eight credit hours of thesis research.

Courses You’ll Take Include

Learn about the history and current topics in Forensic Science.

Gain a deeper understanding of the modern analytical methods and protocols for the forensic analysis of ignitable liquids. Ignitable liquid production as relates to ASTM classification, sampling methods, databases and modern methods of data analysis.

Forensic Analysis of Biological Materials

Dive into a laboratory course for forensic molecular biologists covering the procedures for recovering and typing DNA from evidentiary materials.


Skills You’ll Gain

  • Deeper understanding of analytical methods and protocols for the forensic analysis.
  • Implement quality assurance for forensic scientists.
  • Conduct yourself as a technically and scientifically trained expert witnesses at trial.
Explore the full course list within the program brochure.


Career Opportunities

This program will help you develop the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your field. The skills gained from this program combined with your professional experience will enable you to grow within your field.

$78,900
The national median salary for Forensic Scientist with master’s degrees
0.8%
Job Growth for Forensic Scientist between 2020 and 2030
129,850
Forensic Science jobs requiring a master’s degree nationwide in 2020

Source: Emsi Burning Glass – economicmodeling.com

Job Titles

  • Forensic Biochemist
  • Forensic Chemist
  • Forensic Physicist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Forensic Statistician

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Why UCF Online?

With over 25 years of digital learning experience, UCF Online’s programs are designed with working professionals in mind to provide you with a quality education that fits your schedule.


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Online Support for Success

You’ve made the decision to continue your education and we’re here to help. From the moment you express interest in a UCF Online program, you’re assigned an enrollment coach to help you navigate everything from completing an application to understanding tuition and the financial aid resources available to you. Once you’re admitted, you’ll be transitioned to a personal success coach who will support you with maintaining school-life balance from the first day of classes through graduation. You’ve committed to furthering your education and we’re committed to guiding you along the way.

Connect with a coach now

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