HELP 2011-2012 University Catalog Forensics Graduate Certificate Print-Friendly Page

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.
• Perform a general crime scene analysis.
• Develop DNA profiles and interpret results of toxicological studies.
• Apply fundamental legal and anthropological concepts.
• Work collaboratively in interdisciplinary groups.

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

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the forensic science concentration should hold a BA or BS degree in biology or chemistry from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Applicants to the general forensics concentration should hold a BA or BS degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.00. To apply, prospective students should forward a completed Mason graduate application, two copies of official transcripts from each college and graduate institution attended, and a current résumé to the COS Fairfax Campus Graduate Admissions Processing Center. TOEFL scores are required of all international applicants. 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.

Program 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 two concentrations. In this class, students from the  two 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: