Admission
Admissions to the graduate program in forensic biology requires:
- Completed a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a natural science field of study.
- 3.000 GPA or higher in undergraduate work.
- Applicant undergraduate work will be evaluated to determine if the applicant has sufficient scientific background to successfully complete the graduate program.
- Applicants are expected to have 9 credits of completed coursework in these content areas and should have at least one class in each area:
- Biochemistry,
- Genetics, and
- Molecular biology.
- If coursework deficiencies are identified students may be required to take additional foundational undergraduate courses beyond those required for the graduate degree.
- Additional requirements for admissions into the Master of Science in forensic biology program:
- Three letters of recommendation preferably from professors and/or supervisors familiar with your academic ability, work ethic and skills.
- Statement of purpose describing your personal career goals and how the master’s degree will support those goals, plus a brief description of experience or qualifications in support of the application.
- Skills, equipment and access for online course participation include the capacity for independent learning and proficiency in basic computer applications. Multimedia computers and high-speed internet access are necessary.
- Resume/CV/Vita.
Program Requirements
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| FS 701 | Forensic Science Overview I Seminar (offered in presession) | 1 |
| FS 710 | Forensic Biology I | 4 |
| FS 720 | Population Genetics | 3 |
| FS 703 | Professional Responsibility and Quality Assurance in Forensic Science | 3 |
| FS 702 | Forensic Science Overview Seminar II | 2 |
| FS 721 | Forensic Biology Serology and DNA Testing | 3 |
| FS 711 | Forensic Biology II | 3 |
| FS 704 | Applied Forensic Science Research Methods | 3 |
| FS 712 | Forensic Biology III | 3 |
| FS 713 | Forensic Biology Seminar | 1 |
| FS 706 | Criminal Law for Forensic Scientists | 3 |
| FS 730 | Forensic Biology Capstone Research I | 2 |
| FS 731 | Forensic Biology Capstone Research II | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 34 | |
Applied Learning
Students in the Master of Science in forensic biology are required to complete an applied learning or research experience to graduate from the program. The requirement can be met by completing the following courses which require working with the Center for Excellence and Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) labs on the innovation campus at Wichita State University: