Master of Science in Forensic Science (M.S.F.S.)

Program Information

Director: Terrie Bechdel
Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice
GC406G - (435) 865-8613
terriebechdel@suu.edu

Administrative Assistant: Sandi Levy
Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice
GC406 - (435) 586-5429
levy@suu.edu

Degrees Offered

Master of Science in Forensic Science

Overview of Program

Forensic Science is the practical application of the scientific method to matters of the law. The field encompasses many different disciplines including the physical and biological sciences, engineering, social science, medicine and business. The related term criminalistics, refers more specifically to the scientific collection and analysis of physical evidence in criminal cases. The MSFS program consists of four parts:

Interdisciplinary core courses that survey the primary areas of forensic science including: Criminalistics, Computer Forensics, Forensic Psychology and select life & physical science;
Emphasis courses in the areas specialization.
Combination of an Internship and Thesis or Professional Project
Capstone Courtroom experience

Mission

The mission of the MSFS degree program is to:

Prepare students for a career in investigative services, criminalistics, and related areas of the forensic science discipline.
Provide a strong foundation that will allow students to pursue higher or additional levels of education in the areas covered within the program.

Department/Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the MSFS degree, students are expected to:

Exhibit an understanding of the areas of knowledge that are essential to forensic science;
Develop specific skills necessary for the application of basic forensic science concepts and of specialty knowledge from their area of specialization;
Identify and apply the professional values, concepts and ethics associated with forensic science; and
Demonstrate an ability to apply diverse information to solve real problems

Other Information

Admission to the MSFS Program

A letter of intent describing your academic background and your work experience and stating your intentions and desired emphasis area and a completed application with a non refundable application fee
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution in one of the following disciplines:
A minimum of a 3.0 Cumulative GPA (on 4.0 scale) covering the last 60 semester or 90 quarter hours.
Three Letters of Recommendation or SUU Graduate Recommendation Forms
One set of official transcripts from each of your previous institutions sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions, SUU, 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
An official copy of a recent GRE, MAT or LSAT score (NOTE: Your initial application can be considered with a self-reported score; however, full admission is contingent upon receipt of the official score).
An application fee of $60 ($65 for International applicants)

NOTE: If you do not have a degree in one of the specific subjects listed above and are still interested in this degree please contact the program director to evaluate your qualifications. Some related degrees and combinations of courses may qualify you for admission. Admission with special requirements or contingency may be available in unique circumstances. Be prepared to demonstrate how your degree or experience qualifies you for this program.