Academics
Graduate Programs
Graduate Programs
Forensic Science, M.S.
About the Program
The masters of science in forensic science provides advanced education in the science and laboratory methods utilized in a modern forensic laboratory. The program unites current theory and practices in forensic science with advanced laboratory training and an exploration of issues in the related disciplines of law enforcement and ethics.
The curriculum for the program is structured around a core of advanced forensic science lecture and laboratory courses supplemented by electives in specialized sub-disciplines. The program includes a seminar component and culminates in a master’s thesis based upon original scholarship carried out by the student.
Successful completion of this program requires that students have a strong background in math and science including laboratory experience in chemistry and biology upon admission. The program consists of 30 credit hours and should take two years to complete.
About the Chemistry Department
313 Science Building
1300 Elmwood Ave
Buffalo, NY 14222
Phone: (716) 878-5204
Fax: (716) 878-4028
www.buffalostate.edu/chemistry/
Contact Faculty and Staff in the Chemistry Department
Admission Requirements
1) A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 (4.0 scale).
2) An official transcript of the applicant’s undergraduate program showing successful completion of 48 credit hours of college science and mathematics courses, including the following coursework: one year of general chemistry, one year of organic chemistry with laboratory, a course in analytical chemistry, one year of general biology (including cell biology), a course in genetics or population genetics, and a course in either molecular biology or biochemistry.
3) A minimum GPA in the required chemistry and biology coursework of 2.9 (on a 4.0-point scale).
4) Three letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with the applicant’s academic record.
5) A written statement concerning the applicant’s academic background, future plans, and areas of research interest.
Program Requirements
Required Courses (18 credits)
FOR 612 Principles of Forensic Science (3 cr)
FOR 614 Forensic Applications of Instrumental Analysis (4 cr)
FOR 616 Microscopy in Forensic Science (2 cr)
FOR 618 Drug Chemistry and Toxicology (3 cr)
BIO/CHE 672 Forensic Molecular Biology (4 cr)
CHE 699 Seminar and Thesis Defense (2 cr)
Research Credit (6 credits)
Elective Courses (6 credits)
CHE 670 Biomolecules (3 cr)
CHE 680 Advanced Analytical Chemistry (3 cr)
CHE 625 Physical Methods (4 cr)
BIO 601 Foundations of Cellular and Molecular Biology (3 cr)
BIO 608 Molecular Genetics (3 cr)
GES 513 Advanced Forensic Geosciences (3 cr)
CRJ 630 Constitutional Issues in Criminal Justice (3 cr)
Total Required Credit Hours (30 credits)
