Master of Forensic Sciences (STEM)

The master of forensic science degree (MFS) provides an understanding of the integration of forensic disciplines with the investigation of criminal activity, along with an overview of the analytic methods, procedures, equipment, and data used by forensic specialists.  

Students gain the skills needed to understand and interpret a variety of types of physical evidence, including fingerprints, shoe and tire impressions, firearms, fired bullets, cartridge cases, and toolmarks. In addition, students learn to evaluate and interpret crime scene evidence. These skills are valued by law enforcement agencies, crime labs, coroner's offices, and courts of law. Program graduates also work in the private sector, analyzing physical evidence. 

The MFS also is offered in the fields of forensic chemistry and forensic molecular biology. In addition, the Department of Forensic Sciences offers an MS degree in the field of crime scene investigation.

This is a STEM designated program.

Visit the program website for additional information.

Visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences website for application requirements.

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Office of Graduate Studies
The George Washington University
801 22nd Street NW, Phillips Hall 107
Washington DC 20052

For additional information about the admissions process visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

Contact for questions:

askccas@gwu.edu
202-994-6210 (phone)
Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs.

37 credits, including 16 credits in required courses and 21 credits in elective courses. In addition, students must successfully complete a master's comprehensive examination.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Required
FORS 6001	Research and Professional Responsibility
FORS 6004	Fundamentals of Forensic Science I
FORS 6005	Fundamentals of Forensic Science II
FORS 6224	Criminal Law for Forensic Scientists
FORS 6225	Statistics for Forensic Scientists
FORS 6292	Graduate Seminar
Electives
21 credits in elective courses selected in consultation with the advisor.
Master's comprehensive examination
All students must successfully complete a master's comprehensive examination.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Electives
19 elective credits are selected in consultation with the departmental advisor.
Additional requirements
Successful completion of an independent research project is required.
Successful completion of a master’s comprehensive examination is required.
*Students must register for FORS 6292 in their first semester and again after or during the completion of the required independent research project.