2014-2015 University Catalog

Forensics Graduate Certificate

Banner Code: SC-CERG-FORS

This interdisciplinary graduate certificate program is designed for students seeking training in forensic science, as well as for current professionals employed by the federal government, local law enforcement, and private security corporations. Forensics refers to the application of scientific methodologies to the analysis of crime scenes, the collection of evidence, and the laboratory analysis of that evidence in support of criminal investigations. Related legal aspects are also considered as part of a comprehensive approach to forensics.

Students enrolled in the forensic science concentration obtain the specific scientific skills necessary for laboratory employment in the field. Students enrolled in the general forensics concentration obtain a more general background in the field with a focus on criminal law and anthropology. At the time of completion, depending on the concentration, students will be able to understand the basic principles of forensics and perform a general crime scene analysis.

This program of study is offered by the Forensic Science Program in the College of Science .

The graduate certificate in forensics may be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis.

This certificate program qualifies for Title IV Federal Financial Aid. For more information about program graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our disclosure information page at: http://irr.gmu.edu/gedt/Forensics/Gedt.html

Admission Requirements

Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in the Admission section of this catalog. Applicants to the general forensics concentration should hold a BA or BS degree from a regionally accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.00.

To apply, prospective students should submit a completed graduate application, two copies of official transcripts from all institutions attended, and a current résumé. TOEFL scores are required of all international applicants who do not hold at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution within the US (some exceptions apply).

Students may not pursue this certificate concurrently with any other graduate degree program or certificate program offered by COS because this certificate program will charge students at a differential (premium) tuition rate. However, students enrolled in academic programs outside COS may enroll in this certificate program concurrently.

Certificate Requirements

The certificate in forensics requires a total of 18 credits, comprising six 3-credit courses. A unique element of the program is the Forensics Capstone Course, which is shared by the three concentrations. In this class, students from the three concentrations will combine their skills as members of interdisciplinary investigation teams as they analyze a real-world crime scene. This unique course will demonstrate in practice how students with skills in the scientific/quantitative analysis or legal/anthropological areas can combine forces to understand and interpret the nuances of the evidence presented at an actual crime scene. The curriculum requirements for each concentration are listed below.