phd in forensic science eligibility

• Graduate Students

Ph.D. in Forensic Science

The Ph.D. in Forensic Science program is only the second such program in the United States and has a much wider scope than that of the M.S. program. The major emphasis of the program is the development and completion of a research problem that involves advanced techniques and concepts, culminating in an oral defense of the Ph.D. dissertation. Ph.D. students take a common core of advanced forensic science courses and additional courses as deemed necessary by their dissertation committees.

The objective of the Ph.D. program in Forensic Science is to prepare students to work as professionals in academia, government laboratories, or private industry as laboratory specialists. Through a core of advanced course work and a requisite independently executed research project, the program is designed to provide students with the skills needed to critically assess the current state of knowledge within the field, and to solve complex problems at the frontier of the discipline.

Because of the lack of doctoral programs nationally in forensic science, the offering of a Ph.D. program in Forensic Science at WVU establishes the department’s position as a leader in this critically important area of study. The program is strongly science-based and prepares students to work across the foundations of criminalistics: students learn the underpinnings of the discipline, research design, quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and communication skills such as scientific writing and presenting. Since students may enter the program with a wide array of backgrounds, Ph.D. candidates typically enroll in a common core of advanced forensic science courses, followed by additional courses as deemed necessary by their dissertation committees.

The program for the Ph.D. degree reflects a combination of prescriptive coursework as well as a flexible, research-oriented approach geared to develop the interests, capability, and potential of the student. In addition to the curriculum for the M.S. degree, doctoral students are required to take three additional core courses and two colloquium courses. These courses present the essentials of a given discipline on an advanced level and expose the student to the frontiers in a specific area of research. The course offerings are designed to provide guidelines from which students can launch their independent research projects. Ph.D. students are required to enroll and participate in the departmental seminar program for at least four semesters. By doing so, it is anticipated that they will serve as role models for the graduate students in the M.S. program.

Pathway to the PhD via the Department’s M.S.

Students who have completed the M.S. at WVU must formally apply for admission to the Ph.D. program. 

Pathways to the PhD beside that of the Department’s M.S.

Students who have completed an M.S. at another institution can enter the Ph.D. program; their course work will be evaluated against that of WVU’s M.S. program and each student will be appraised of any course deficiencies that need to be completed as part of his/her course of study under the Ph.D. program. 

Academic standards are similar for the M.S. and Ph.D. program. Thesis research is different in that students are encouraged to use the manuscript model for preparing the results of their research, which consists of a series of interrelated chapters/papers on the topic. The quality and contribution of each chapter/paper should be that of an article published in a peer-reviewed scholarly journal. Some chapters/papers may actually be published in advance of the final dissertation. In fact, this latter approach is generally preferable because the chapter/paper in question will already have gone through peer review by experts outside the institution. 

The form for the dissertation, should include 1) an introductory chapter that clarifies the theme of the dissertation, 2) a number of interrelated papers, and 3) a concluding chapter that synthesizes and integrates the papers and proposes ideas for future work.

Requirements for Application

• Personal statement
• GRE taken within the last seven years with a score of 300 or better
• Academic transcripts
• Research writing example of a peer-reviewed publication or thesis 
• If you wish to submit an alternative document for review, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator, Tina Moroose , to determine suitability.
• Three letters of recommendation 
• All references must be familiar with, and able to comment on, the applicant’s academic and/or research skill set

Application Deadline

Although early review of applications will begin December 15, the application deadline for the Ph.D. program is January 15. Late admissions will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Application to WVU

For additional information, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator at: [email protected] or 304-293-5346

Forensic Science, Ph.D.

Degree requirements.

• Credit Hours:  Graduate students in the Ph.D. program must successfully complete a minimum of 71 credit hours. Each student may apply a maximum of 31 credit hours of research toward the 71-hour requirement; the remaining 40 credit hours must be earned in graduate-level courses in Forensic Science.
• Grade Point Average: Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in courses applied to the degree.
• Program of Study: The program also includes an oral qualifying examination, a dissertation proposal presentation, and an oral defense of the dissertation.

Oral Qualifying Examination:   Doctoral students must pass a comprehensive oral examination in the field of criminalistics to demonstrate their competency in the discipline and successfully defend the topic of their dissertation research.

Dissertation:   Students are required to complete a dissertation.  Additional information, expectations, requirements, and timeline information is found in the Department's Graduate Student Handbook. 

Benchmarks: For details, go to the Forensics Degree Progress tab .

Curriculum Requirements

Or equivalent graduate course approved by Graduate Studies Committee. Excludes Graduate Seminar (796) and Research (797).

Each attempt at FIS 796 is worth one credit hour; students must successfully complete one credit per semester over six semesters.

Major Learning Outcomes

Forensic science.

As a result of completing the PhD in Forensic Science, students will be able to:

• Assess the value of evidence in different circumstances, propose best practices for its examination and demonstrate mastery in performing a variety of different examinations of evidence
• Identify the limitations in the knowledge and capabilities of forensic science, formulate creative solutions and design and conduct scientifically sound experiments to overcome the identified limitations.
• Execute persuasive communications, in written and oral formats, of his/her test results and research discoveries

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• Forensics Colleges » Online Forensics Programs » Online Doctorate (PhD) in Forensic Science

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Online Doctoral Programs (PhD) in Forensic Science

When human life is lost, law enforcement officers and forensic science specialists must determine the motivation for a crime and the cause of death. As simple as this formula seems, humans alone cannot be trusted to provide witness testimony. Enter the work of experienced forensic scientists who prove or determine probable fault using laboratory-based and carefully constructed questions when interviewing witnesses.

Leading forensic scientists and psychologists can practice their craft with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, but to delve into the nuanced areas of forensics and leadership, some senior-level positions require a doctoral degree in forensic science.

When two witnesses point fingers at each other, saying the other is guilty, forensic science takes a multidisciplinary approach to provide essential information to bring criminals to justice. A case report involving the murder of a 55-year-old man illustrates the need for a multidisciplinary approach. The man accused of killing his neighbor admits he killed him in self-defense, but relatives of the murder victim say that there were other motivations not being admitted.

To provide more details, a forensic scientist can serve as a medical examiner, a forensic chemist can do ballistics analysis, and a forensic psychologist can conduct interviews to determine the mental health state of the accused murderer so that justice can be served with accuracy.

Forensic scientists and psychologists working in the field can pursue doctoral degree options to bolster their expertise. Read on to learn more about online doctoral programs in forensic science.

Featured Online PhDs Related to Forensic Science

At present, there are no online doctoral programs in forensic science that can be completed 100 percent online. Because forensic science is a laboratory-based discipline, most programs require students to be on campus at least part-time for research and clinical work.

However, there are PhD programs that fall under the umbrella of forensic science, such as forensic biology, chemistry, and psychology. Applicants interested in these programs are strongly encouraged to learn about the accreditation status of these programs, which is discussed in detail below.

Walden University (Related Program)

Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota is unique because it offers the only online PhD program in forensic psychology. Students in this program can choose from a regular or fast-track option which enables students to waive up to six courses or 53 credits from the master’s degree in forensic psychology. The program also has optional four-day intensives focused on key topics.

Students in this doctoral program can also choose from seven unique specializations to focus their studies on a specific field of forensic psychology: general, criminal justice (self-designed), crisis leadership management, crisis response, legal issues in forensic psychology, self-designed program, and victimology. This program also provides two tracks: one for students with a master’s degree in forensic psychology and one for those with a GPA of 3.0 on their bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in another discipline.

Some of the courses in the curriculum include themes and theories of psychology; abnormal behavior; criminal behavior; understanding violence, risk, and threat assessment; advanced issues in forensic psychology; treatment of forensic populations; psychology in the courts; police psychology; and consulting for organizational change.

• Location: Minneapolis, MN
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four to eight years
• Estimated Tuition: Tracks 1 & 2 ($600 per quarter-hour); fast track ($6,970 per term)

Fielding Graduate University (Related Program)

Fielding Graduate University offers a doctoral program in clinical psychology with an optional concentration in forensic psychology and is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Blending in-person learning opportunities with digital formats, this PhD program includes in-person and online seminars, meetings with faculty members and other students, weeklong residential sessions, and clinical and research training experiences. The program includes a clinical practicum as well as a clinical doctoral internship. Apart from these, the program also includes two additional in-person residency requirements.

Admission requirements to the program include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, an online application form, a curriculum vitae (CV), a statement of purpose, a critical thinking writing sample, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. GRE scores are not required for admission.

The curriculum includes core courses in developmental bases of behavior; history and systems of psychology; social bases of behavior; cognitive and affective bases of behavior; psychopathology; multicultural psychology. Courses in the forensic psychology concentration include forensic psychology; ethics in forensic psychology; forensic assessment in civil court; malingering and deception; evaluations for the immigration courts; forensic assessment in criminal cases; and forensic psychology lab.

• Location: Santa Barbara, CA
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC); American Psychological Association (APA)
• Expected Time to Completion: Five to six years
• Estimated Tuition: $9,700 per term

University of Arizona Global Campus (Related Program)

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers an online doctor of psychology (PsyD) program that helps students in building their knowledge base in the systems and history of psychology, and then students will be able to focus their PsyD degree by selecting a concentration that aligns with their specific research and career interests.

With the criminology and justice studies specialization, students will develop their expertise in criminal behavior and the corrections systems and criminal justice. Students in this specialization will be prepared to use psychological principles to solve complex real-world issues regarding justice and crime.

The PsyD includes ten core courses, seven specialization courses, and a capstone seminar. Students will then complete an applied doctoral project, which includes two planning courses and five units of the applied doctoral project.

Comprising 62 credits, the curriculum includes courses such as contemporary criminological theory; types & characteristics of crime; advanced analysis of criminal justice processes; juvenile justice; mental health & crime; drugs, addiction, & crime; and evaluating criminal justice interventions.

• Location: Chandler, AZ
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Four years
• Estimated Tuition: $1,082 per credit

On-Campus Doctoral Programs in Forensic Science

As previously mentioned, no fully online doctoral programs lead to a PhD in forensic science, but there are forensic science doctoral programs in related subfields.

Here are on-campus doctoral programs in forensic chemistry, forensic mental health counseling, forensic science, and forensic psychology.

West Virginia University

West Virginia University’s PhD in forensic science program is unique in that it is only the second such program in the United States. Students in this PhD will be prepared to work as professionals in government laboratories, private industries, or academia as laboratory specialists. Students in this program must successfully complete a minimum of 71 credits. The program also includes a dissertation proposal presentation, an oral defense of the dissertation, and an oral qualifying examination.

In this research-intensive program, students study the foundations of criminalistics using research design, qualitative methods, statistical analysis, and communication skills in scientific writing and presenting. All students take a common core of advanced forensic science courses and other courses determined by their dissertation committees.

• Location: Morgantown, WV
• Accreditation: Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($513 per credit); non-resident ($1,449)

Florida International University

Florida International University offers a doctor of philosophy (PhD) in chemistry with a forensic science track. This track prepares graduates for research in environmental and biogeochemistry with an emphasis on forensic science applications. This track has two tracks to choose from: an analytical chemistry/trace concentration and a biochemistry/DNA analysis concentration.

Students in this program benefit from collaborative agreements with local, state, national, and international agencies and learn about detecting trace amounts of evidence at crime scenes, DNA typing in mass disasters, and canine screening for explosives.

Research projects are coordinated by the International Forensic Research Institute, and graduates from this program go to work in government laboratories with the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Secret Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

• Location: Miami, FL
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Estimated Tuition: In-state ($4,101 per semester); out-of-state ($9,015 per semester)

Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University offers a doctor of philosophy in forensic science program providing students with problem-solving skills; advanced, discipline-specific knowledge; and critical thinking ability allowing them to advance into leadership positions. To achieve this, students will develop the ability to perform independent research, complete multidisciplinary academic coursework, gain hands-on experience in laboratories, and collaborate with accredited forensic laboratories, partners, and institutes.

Consisting of 86 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree, students will complete 43 credits of core coursework, a minimum of 15 credits of dissertation research, and an additional 28 credits of electives. Sample some of the courses in the curriculum: forensic instrumental analysis; controlled substances; pattern and physical evidence concepts; forensic biology; forensic toxicology; law and forensic sciences; and quality assurance and ethical conduct in forensic science.

• Location: Huntsville, TX
• Expected Time to Completion: Five years
• Estimated Tuition: Texas resident ($320.25 per credit); out-of-state ($728.25 per credit)

Other Online Forensic Science Programs to Consider

Bachelor’s degree holders who want to begin graduate studies in forensic science and related fields can consider two-year master’s degree programs. This degree option offers clinical and research-based rigor to prepare students for future doctoral studies.

Here are three online master’s programs in forensic science and psychology and one hybrid (online and on-campus) forensic science program which can prepare graduates for doctoral-level coursework in forensic science or psychology.

Oklahoma State University (MS in Forensic Science)

Oklahoma State University offers a hybrid master of science in forensic science with several concentration options (two of them are FEPAC-accredited). These concentrations include arson and explosives investigation; forensic investigative sciences; forensic biology/DNA (accredited by FEPAC); forensic chemistry/toxicology (accredited by FEPAC); and forensic psychology.

The concentration in forensic biology/DNA is a 36-credit FEPAC-accredited program that can be completed part- or full-time and features a death scene investigation track for those who have taken forensic science or biology, genetics, or molecular biology courses at the undergraduate level.

In the first year of the program, students can choose to take courses on-campus or online and the second year includes laboratory and research courses that must be taken on campus. Students have seven years to complete the requirements and must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their time in the program.

The curriculum includes courses such as the survey of forensic sciences; molecular biology; population genetics; forensic bioscience; ethical research and scientific writing; quality assurance in forensic science; methods in forensic sciences; criminalistics and evidence analysis; advanced criminalistics; and forensic statistics.

• Location: Tulsa, OK
• Expected Time to Completion: Oklahoma residents ($233.80 per credit); non-residents ($879.75 per credit); non-residents – online only ($364 per credit)

University of North Dakota (MA in Forensic Psychology)

The University of North Dakota offers an online master of arts in forensic psychology that prepares graduates for civil and criminal justice systems work. This 30-credit program is offered fully online and part-time to meet the needs of working students.

The curriculum includes courses such as psychology and law; research methods in forensic psychology; advanced social psychology; behavior pathology; readings in psychology; cognitive psychology; diversity psychology; eyewitness testimony memory; and supervised fieldwork.

Graduates from this program are prepared to conduct focus groups in legal settings for jury selection, select and use appropriate assessment tools, evaluate programs using research-based methods, and assist in addressing forensic issues in legal settings.

• Location: Grand Forks, ND
• Expected Time to Completion: 1.5 to two years
• Estimated Tuition: $588.65 per credit

Walden University (MS in Forensic Psychology)

Walden University offers a 48-credit online master’s of science (MS) in forensic psychology. As mentioned above, students in this master’s program have the option of applying up to half of their master’s coursework towards an online PhD in forensic psychology which saves students time and money and enables them to earn MS and PhD degrees on a faster timeline.

The master’s program offers eleven specializations related to forensic psychology and other sub-fields of forensic science: criminal justice self-designed; cybercrimes; family violence; legal issues in forensic psychology; military; police psychology; self-designed learning; sex offender behavior; terrorism; victimology; and general program.

Some of the topics students will explore include foundations of graduate studies in psychology; abnormal behavior; criminal behavior; understanding forensic psychology research; understanding violence, risk, and threat assessment; psychological aspects of violent crime; victimology; and criminal investigative analysis and profiling.

• Expected Time to Completion: 18 to 24 months
• Estimated Tuition: $548 per quarter hour

Arizona State University (Master’s in Forensic Science)

Arizona State University’s online professional science master’s in forensic science (PSM) program allows currently working forensic science professionals to consider career advancement in sectors such as law enforcement, forensic science, medicolegal, and other closely related fields.

To be considered for admission, applicants must have earned a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Additionally, applicants must complete an online application and submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an up-to-date resume. Proof of English language proficiency is required of applicants whose native language is not English.

The program comprises 30 credits, including coursework in forensic science and governance; ethics in forensic science; laboratory leadership, policy, and practice; advanced forensic psychology; advanced topics in human forensic DNA; applied biostatistics in medicine and informatics; biostatistics and data management; criminal procedure of investigations for social and forensic scientists; and forensic toxicology; among others.

• Location: Phoenix, AZ
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $847 per credit

Forensic Science PhD Admission Requirements

To be admitted into a forensic science PhD program, applicants must meet certain academic requirements. Here’s a list of documents commonly requested when applying for a doctoral program in forensic science:

• A personal statement (typically 1,000 words or less)
• Application fee
• A resume with one to two years of professional experience in forensic science
• A background check (especially for competitive internships for program credit)
• Competitive Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
• GRE Subject Test scores (generally optional)
• Interview (in-person, phone, or web-based)
• Letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate (and/or graduate) institutions with a stellar GPA (e.g., >3.5)
• Proof of having completed specific coursework in a relevant major (e.g., forensic science, natural science, chemistry, biology)
• Proof of professional publications (recommended, but not always required)
• TOEFL scores (for non-native speakers of English only)

Common Courses & Requirements for Forensic Science PhD Programs

Each forensic science or psychology doctoral program has its own unique requirements for students to meet to be considered for admission and graduate from the program. Here is a list of common degree requirements and course titles.

Credit Requirements for Forensic Science Programs

• Foundational courses (3-6 credits)
• Advanced coursework (24-30 credits)
• Research methods (9-12 credits)
• Specialization courses (12-15 credits)
• Dissertation writing (3-6 credits)
• Residencies, internships, clinical practicums (timelines vary)

Common Courses for Forensic Science and Psychology Programs

• Research methods and statistics in psychology
• Psychological research and biblical worldview
• Theories and research in industrial/organizational psychology
• Teaching of psychology
• Criminal investigative analysis and profiling
• Field experience
• Vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue
• Doctoral writing assessment
• Qualitative and quantitative reasoning and analysis
• Clinical practicum
• Clinical psychopharmacology
• Dissertation writing
• Eyewitness testimony and memory
• Ethics in forensic leadership
• The chemistry of pyrotechnics and explosives
• Fire dynamics in forensic investigations
• Computer fire modeling
• Molecular biology for the forensic scientist
• Forensic pathology and medicine
• Forensic microbiology
• Forensic toxicology
• Criminalistics and evidence analysis

Online Forensic Science PhD Residencies, Internships, or Practicums

As previously discussed, the nature of forensic science or forensic psychology involves on-campus or in-person research in laboratory or clinical settings and there are few to no online opportunities for residencies, internships, or practicums.

For illustration, Walden University requires students in its PhD in clinical psychology program to spend an Academic Year in Residence (AYR) in addition to four four-day PhD residencies. The AYR earns students 40 credits and numerous opportunities to develop skills and knowledge needed for a career as a forensic psychologist.

West Virginia University also partners with several governmental and private organizations that offer forensic science internships in federal laboratories and the Department of Homeland Security for students to gain hands-on experience during summer-only experiential learning.

Forensic Science Programmatic & Institutional Accreditation

When researching educational programs, accreditation is an essential factor to consider. Accreditation is granted to programs or institutions by national, regional, or programmatic accreditation organizations tasked with ensuring that high standards of educational quality are met.

Why is it important to verify a program or institution’s accreditation? First, accreditation validates the educational quality. Future employers look for graduates from accredited programs to ensure that their professional programs and clients receive the highest level of professionalism. And most importantly, accreditation is a requirement for state or national licensure for some careers, including forensic psychology. Sometimes, candidates can only sit for licensure exams if they have completed an accredited academic program.

Programmatic Accreditation

The Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) grants the gold standard in forensic science program accreditation. Forensic psychology programs are granted accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). To earn programmatic accreditation requires adhering to rigorously high standards in specialized areas.

Institutional Accreditation

If any institution does not hold programmatic accreditation, then a prospective student is advised to research a school’s institutional accreditation. The United States Department of Education’s Council for Higher Education (CHEA) recognizes the following regional accrediting organizations:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Rachel Drummond has given her writing expertise to ForensicsColleges.com since 2019, where she provides a unique perspective on the intersection of education, mindfulness, and the forensic sciences. Her work encourages those in the field to consider the role of mental and physical well-being in their professional success.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog , inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.

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Forensic Science , Doctorate of Philosophy

Available: On Campus

The Doctor of Philosophy in Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary science degree that is designed to provide students with the critical thinking ability, problem-solving skills, and advanced, discipline-specific knowledge to allow them to advance into leadership positions. This is accomplished by demonstrating the ability to perform independent, original research, the successful completion of multidisciplinary academic coursework, hands-on experience in the laboratory, and collaboration with accredited forensic laboratories, institutes and partners.

The PhD in Forensic Science requires the completion of 86 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. Students complete a total of 43 credit hours of core coursework, a minimum of 15 credit hours of dissertation research and an additional 28 credit hours of electives. The curriculum is designed to deliver an essential core curriculum in forensic science, together with specialized electives and intensive research in the area of interest. Students are expected to fulfill the requirements during four to five years of full-time study.

Program Breakdown

Application deadlines.

Students are accepted in the Fall semester only. All application materials must be received by the deadline for consideration the following academic year. A holistic review of each student's application file will be completed on a competitive basis. Late applications may be accepted; please contact the program office directly. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

• Fall: January 15

Please note that application deadlines will occasionally change. Please contact the program director (listed in the contact section) for confirmation on application deadlines.

Contact Info

Office of admissions.

• Graduate Admissions Website
• 936.294.1971
• [email protected]

Department Chair

• Dr. Sheree Hughes
• 936.294.2608
• [email protected]

How to Become a Forensic Scientist

Forensic science is a field that focuses on using scientific methods to address legal disputes.

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Many forensic scientists work for government-run crime laboratories, and some work for law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

When a serious crime such as a murder occurs, the identity of the perpetrator may not be obvious. In whodunit scenarios, where it is unclear who is responsible for wrongdoing, forensic science often provides the key to solving the mystery.

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What Is Forensic Science? A Definition

Forensic science is a practical academic discipline that involves solving puzzles. Forensic scientists use their knowledge of basic science fields like biology, chemistry and physics to investigate questions with legal implications, such as inquiries about who is at fault for a particular incident or what caused an injury.

For example, forensic science could clarify whether and when someone was poisoned, and it could indicate whether a particular gun had been used in a homicide.

"It's all about traceable, detailed investigations to solve a problem or solve a crime," says Catherine Jordan, who has a Ph.D. degree in organic chemistry and spent nine years working as a forensic scientist. Jordan previously worked for Minton, Treharne & Davies, an international scientific testing and inspection service provider.

Jennifer Shen – former director of the police department crime lab in San Diego, California – emphasizes that forensic science is "first and foremost, a science" and notes that a person needs some kind of scientific education in order to work as a forensic scientist.

Qualities Needed to Become a Forensic Scientist

A science degree is necessary, but not sufficient, for a career as a forensic scientist. The ability to pass a background check is critical, warns Daniele Podini, chair of the department of forensic sciences at George Washington University , where he is also an associate professor.

Podini also suggests that because forensic scientists often encounter disturbing imagery and hear troubling stories, they need to be able to emotionally detach themselves and keep a level head.

According to Jordan, analytical skills are necessary for success in forensic science. In addition, because forensic scientists often serve as expert witnesses in criminal and civil court cases and frequently testify before judges and juries, they must be eloquent enough to "present their findings well enough to stand up in court," Jordan says.

Though associate and bachelor's degrees are sufficient for certain basic forensic science jobs, high-level jobs in the field usually require a master's degree , and some roles cannot be obtained without a doctorate, experts say.

Because the profession is one that many workers consider glamorous, competition for jobs tends to be fierce, Shen says. Anyone who hopes to gain employment in this sector ought to present themselves to employers in a polished way in order to maximize their chances of getting hired, she adds.

Anita Zannin, a forensic scientist who owns AZ Forensic Associates LLC, a forensic consulting firm in New York, notes that objectivity is essential within the forensic science field.

"Individuals should not get into this field to 'put bad guys away' – it should be just as rewarding to assist in exonerating someone who has been wrongfully accused," Zannin, who earned a master's degree in forensic science from Syracuse University , wrote in an email. "While we are all human, and may have opinions about an individual’s guilt or innocence, that opinion CANNOT play into a scientist’s evaluation of the evidence."

What an Aspiring Forensic Scientist Should Study

Though it is possible for someone to become a forensic scientist if he or she has a degree in a related academic discipline, having a forensic science degree is helpful when competing for jobs in that field, according to experts. Graduate-level credentials can increase someone's odds of advancement within the profession, since technical lead positions often require a master's and some lab director jobs cannot be acquired without a Ph.D. degree, experts suggest.

Forensic science students can expect to take a combination of science classes, including courses in genetics, biochemistry and microscopy, and should anticipate spending a lot of time in the laboratory. They also typically learn how to follow lab protocols and write forensic reports. Graduate students in forensic science programs usually specialize within a particular area of forensic science, such as forensic biology or forensic chemistry.

Forensic Science Careers

Forensic scientists are often employed by federal, state, city or local governments. Many work for government-run crime laboratories, and some work for law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation .

They sometimes work at private-sector labs and occasionally work independently, says Zannin, who also earned bachelor's degrees in forensic chemistry and criminal justice. While forensic scientists typically focus on criminal matters, she explains, they can be involved with civil litigation, serving as expert witnesses in courtroom disputes over product liability and personal injuries.

The median annual salary among U.S. forensic science technicians was $59,150 as of May 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Technician positions typically require a bachelor's degree, the bureau states.

Someone who advances from a technician position to a management role may earn significantly more money. According to the bureau, the median salary among natural sciences managers – people who supervise lab scientists – was $129,100 in May 2019.

Shen says one advantage of forensic science jobs, compared with other science positions, is that scientists in these roles often see immediate results from their labor – something that is rare in other branches of science such as biology . There is also something fulfilling about performing a public service by revealing the truth about what happened in a particular case, she adds.

Podini notes that forensic science jobs often involve significant pressure, since sometimes a backlog of evidence needs to be processed and accuracy is paramount.

"You don't want to make mistakes, because these mistakes can then have an effect on people's lives," he says.

A significant benefit of being a forensic scientist, Podini says, is that "what you do benefits society and is very important for society."

He adds that DNA analysis can lead to wonderful results. "A family can find closure, or a victim can find closure, or an innocent suspect is exonerated, or a person that might hurt others is apprehended and taken off the street."

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PhD in Forensic Science

The mission of the PhD in Forensic Science is to provide students with the critical thinking ability; problem-solving skills; and advanced, discipline-specific knowledge to allow them to advance into leadership positions.

This is accomplished by demonstrating the ability to perform independent, original research; the successful completion of multidisciplinary academic coursework; hands-on experience in the laboratory; and collaboration with accredited forensic laboratories, institutes, and partners.

Educational Objectives

• Provide students the knowledge, skills, and abilities to prepare them for successful careers in forensic science.
• Develop students’ critical thinking ability, problem-solving skills, and advanced discipline-specific knowledge.
• Produce high quality graduates capable of advancement into leadership positions.
• Engage in collaborative research that demonstrates industrial relevance and wider scientific awareness.

The PhD in Forensic Science requires the completion of 86 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. Students complete:

Dissertation research hours may be substituted for electives (15 SCH maximum) with approval of the Department Chair. 

The curriculum is designed to deliver an essential core curriculum in forensic science, together with specialized electives and intensive research in the area of interest. Students are expected to fulfill the requirements during approximately five years of full-time study.

Students with an MS in Forensic Science from a FEPAC-accredited institution may be eligible to transfer credit towards the eighty-six credit hour requirement. 

Program Breakdown

Additional information : Reference the Program Landing Page for additional information, such as cost, delivery format, contact information, or to schedule a visit.

Review of applications and offers of admission will begin Jan. 15 and proceed until enrollment openings are filled. A holistic review of each student’s application will be completed on a competitive basis.  All applicants are automatically considered for graduate assistantships in the Department of Forensic Science. 

Please submit all documents to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Admission considerations include:

• Graduate Application
• Application fee
• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, biology, forensic or natural science
• Completion of eight credit hours (two semesters or equivalent) of organic chemistry with laboratories 
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• GPA of 3.5 or higher (strongly preferred)
• Official GRE scores 
• Three letters of recommendation with Admission Recommendation Checklists. At least two must be from academic sources
• A personal statement of 500 - 750 words
• A current resume or vita
• TOEFL/IELTS scores and third-party transcript evaluation for international students (if applicable)
• A personal interview may be requested

The Program Application, Application Checklist, and instructions are available at  Application Resources .

Note: To be eligible for employment at forensic laboratories, students may need to complete additional foundational courses beyond the standard PhD degree requirements. For instance, prospective employees in Forensic Biology must have completed a minimum of nine credit hours in upper-level biology courses, including biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. Additionally, prospective employees in Forensic Toxicology must have completed at least two courses, each carrying a minimum of three credit hours, in quantitative analysis and biochemistry, or similarly named courses. 

The program requires the completion of a minimum of eighty-six hours of graduate credit, as prescribed in the curriculum.

Students must register full-time and maintain a 3.0 grade point average in all courses. In order to advance to candidacy students must have successfully completed (or be currently enrolled in) forty-four graduate credit hours of coursework and research.  Students must submit a portfolio for review, write a formal research proposal, orally defend the proposal, and pass the qualifying examination (typically by the close of the second spring semester). Once the committee determines that the portfolio, proposal, oral defense, and examination performance are satisfactory, the student may enroll in dissertation research.

A minimum of fifteen hours of dissertation credits are required and students must maintain continuous enrollment until they graduate. Students must complete and defend a doctoral dissertation, which is the product of original scholarly research and is of sufficient publishable quality to represent a meaningful contribution to knowledge in the field of forensic science.

During the first year of study, students are exposed to the major forensic disciplines in addition to the forensic internship. After successfully completing core coursework during the first year, students identify their discipline of study and commence research under the direction of their faculty advisor. 

Students with an MS in Forensic Science from a FEPAC-accredited institution may be eligible to transfer credit towards the eighty-six credit hour requirement.  

FORS 6014 must be taken for a total of six credit hours.

Once the minimum number of dissertation research hours have been met, dissertation hours may be substituted for electives (15 SCH maximum) with approval of the department chair. 

Once enrolled in FORS 8099 , students must enroll in this course every semester until graduation.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) marketable skills initiative is part of the state’s 60x30TX plan and was designed to help students articulate their skills to employers.  Marketable skills are those skills valued by employers and/or graduate programs that can be applied in a variety of work or education settings and may include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas.

The PhD in Forensic Science is designed to provide graduates with the following marketable skills:

• Advanced discipline-specific knowledge.
• Hands-on laboratory skills.
• Familiarity with legal, ethical, and quality assurance issues.
• Critical thinking skills.
• Impartiality and scientific objectivity.
• Application of statistical concepts to forensic science.
• Familiarity with consensus-based scientific standards in forensic science.
• Advanced instrumental understanding and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to conduct original research.
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Forensic Science  Doctoral

What is Forensic Science at WVU like?

Description

The doctorate is a research degree that culminates in a dissertation in an area that is jointly determined between a student and their faculty advisor. Each student takes three core courses and two colloquia as the academic foundation for developing their area of research.

WVU is only one of two programs nationally that offers the PhD in forensic science. Our student-centric philosophy creates an environment of strong faculty-student interactions where students are valued as junior colleagues. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the faculty member whose area of expertise aligns best with their interest concomitant with applying to the program.

Application Deadlines

Each graduate program sets their own term of admission and application deadline. Applicants can only apply for admission for the term displayed below. Any questions regarding the application deadline should be directed to the graduate program representative. Fall:  January 15

At a Glance

• Admission Requirements

Contact Information

• College/School: Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Department:
• Degree Designation: PhD
• Degree Program:

Interested in this major? Here are some suggested next steps:

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Forensic Science at WVU?

University Requirements

To be eligible for admission into a graduate program at WVU an applicant must submit official, bachelors degree transcripts from a regionally accredited institution and hold a GPA of at least 2.75.

WVU operates decentralized admissions. Decentralized admissions allows each graduate program to set its own application requirements in addition to the University requirements.

Program Requirements

To be eligible for admission into the Forensic Science graduate program an applicant must submit the following documentation:

• Letters of Recommendation - Three
• Statement of Purpose
• Essay/Writing Sample (Contact a Graduate Program Representative for a Prompt)

Additional considerations for applicants:

• Priority is given to completed applications received by January 15th. Admissions for spring can be considered on a case by case basis only; contact the Graduate Studies coordinator before submitting.

Certain application requirements may be waived based on a preliminary review of an application by program.

International Applicants must also submit the materials outlined here .

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Graduate Admissions and Recruitment

Email:   [email protected]

Phone:  (304) 293-5980

International Admissions

Email:   [email protected]

Phone:  (304) 293-2121

Program Contact

Tina Moroose

Teaching Assistant Professor and Graduate Studies Coordinator

Email:   [email protected]

Phone:  3042935346

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Phd in chemistry: forensic science.

Our Forensic Science track offers extensive training in chemistry and forensics. Students conducting research in forensic chemistry benefit from the use of laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation.  The Global Forensic and Justice Center coordinates the research of more than a dozen faculty in chemistry and biology and facilitates research in forensic science.

The program emphasizes the environmental and biomedical aspects of chemistry. Recent investigations have focused on various projects in these two areas. Environmental projects include examining biogeochemistry of environmentally and biomedically important trace elements, such as mercury and arsenic; hydrocarbon speciation in ancient sediments studied by SFC extraction; studies of molecules and airborne particulates of importance to the atmosphere; photocatalytic decomposition of organophosphates; and utilizing spin trapping agents to probe for the presence of free radicals in specimens subjected to adverse conditions. Biomedical research includes synthesis of biologically important molecules in order to probe enzyme mechanisms, theoretical studies of active site of protease enzymes, and dietary influence on the makeup of the macular pigment.

Graduates are prepared for careers in academics, government laboratories ( Drug Enforcement Administration , FBI,  Department of Homeland Security , Secret Service,  Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and others), government agencies, private labs and industry or as entrepreneurs.

Graduate Catalog

Chemistry and Biochemistry Resources

Christopher Dares Chemistry Graduate Program Director   305-348-7822   [email protected]  CP 338A

Anthony Paul DeCaprio Associate Professor; Director of the Forensic and Analytical Toxicology [...]   305-348-2195; 305-348-2611   [email protected]  OE 116B

Lauryn DeGreeff-Silk Associate Professor   305-348-4047   [email protected]  AHC1 249

Kenneth G. Furton Professor, Executive Director, Global Forensic and Justice Center   305-348-0022   [email protected]  MARC 238

Max Houck Research Assistant Professor; Graduate Program Director   727-395-2511   [email protected]  OE 116

Bruce McCord Professor   305-348-7543   [email protected]  CP 313

Program Contacts

Magali Autie Office Specialist   305-348-3596   [email protected]  CP 304B

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PhD in Forensic Science

The Doctor of Philosophy is a 3 year full time (6 year part time) research program open to candidates with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) or Master of Science (Research), or have demonstrated professional qualifications and experience, and are interested in high-level independent research training. Doctoral candidates work with their supervisors to develop a research project designed to add a distinct and significant contribution to knowledge in their chosen field of forensic science. PhD projects may vary from investigating novel analysis techniques to collaborating with industry partners to develop fundamental discipline knowledge or tackle emerging issues. Project supervision is available a number of disciplines, including:

• Criminalistics
• Forensic toxicology & illicit drugs
• Fingerprints
• Forensic taphonomy
• Forensic biology
• Forensic intelligence
• Forensic analytical chemistry  

A list of academics and research areas in the Centre for Forensic Science can be found in  Our Research  and staff bios . 

Your learning facilities

Inside the uts: science super lab.

The UTS: Science Super Lab is the first of its kind in Australia. Featuring modern equipment and technology it can accommodate up to 220 students from 12 different classes, with experiments from different disciplines running at once.

The UTS: Science Super Lab is the first of its kind in Australia. Featuring modern equipment and technology it can accommodate up to 220 students from 12 different classes, with experiments from different disciplines running at once. This short video provides a detailed look into a day in the life of the Super Lab.

[Instrumental music]

A unique facility [Opening shot panning across students using computers at work benches]

52 metres long 26 workbenches 12 demonstrator stations [Close up shot of Super Lab computers panning out to view entire lab]

Break out sections Lots of natural light [Shot of four tables in a break out section with students sitting at tables watching smart board, a demonstrator in a blue lab coat talks students through content on smart board]

[High shot overlooking Super Lab full of students all wearing white lab coasts working at benches with computers]

12 different classes 220 students Learning simultaneously [close up of three students in white lab coats with headphones on looking at computers and writing]

[Demonstrator wearing blue lab coat puts headphones on]

Two-way wireless headset and microphone communication] [close up of student plugging headset cord into receiver; and then putting headphone set on head]

Sophisticated and easy to use [Demonstrator wearing blue lab coat touches computer monitor; students at work benches follow on their own computers]

Video streaming to students’ PCs [close up of student wearing headphones looking at computer]

12 LCD screens [Diagrams are projected on to large LCD screen as students watch] Document and PC Projection [Demonstrator in blue lab coast talks and students look at LCD screen] [Physics student in white lab coat and clear safety glasses opens drawer at workstation pulls out keyboard talks to two other students while looking at PC]

Surface Pro tablet and wireless camera [Student touches computer monitor to enlarge graph] [Students look at computer and notebook discussing problem] [a button is pressed which changes a blue light at their workstation to orange] Orange lights alert demonstrators to students [Light turns orange and a demonstrator in a blue lab coat and clear safety glasses comes to students to assist] Students are well supported [Demonstrator continues to talk to group of students who nod their heads]

[Close up of students in white lab coats picking up test tube with red chemical out of fume cupboard]

[Demonstrator in blue lab coat points to test tube and talks to student in white lab coat]

Inside the Crime Scene Simulation Lab

Forensic students at UTS Science have access to a unique Crime Scene Simulation Lab. Set up like a city apartment, the lab provides students with practical experience in crime scene investigations.

[Close up of someone in lab coat scanning pass and opening door, then close up of sign that says Crime Scene Simulation Lab.] [Forensic student in mock dining room dusts for fingerprints; student in mock lounge room takes a photo of evidence.]

Custom designed virtual city apartment [Three forensic students sit at bench with three computers examining photos of evidence and discussing findings.]

Training aspiring forensic scientists and crime scene investigators [Close up of students discussing photos.]

Simulating real-life crimes [A forensics student measures the length of a suspect’s shoe; close up of a suspect’s shoe with a tape measure next to it] Break and enter [The forensic student takes a photo suspect’s shoe in mock break enter crime scene.]

Suspicious circumstance [Two forensic students in a mock bedroom remove covers from bed where a dummy body lays.]

Everyday settings where crimes typically occur [Two forensic students in mock crime scene in dining room dust a glass for finger prints and use a blue light to examine evidence.]

Teaching fingerprint detection [Close up of student dusting dining room table for finger prints.]

[Student rolls out yellow crime scene tape over mock bathroom crime scene while another student uses a blue light to look for evidence.]

Detecting blood hidden in crime scenes [Second student joins one in bathroom as blue light shows mock blood in crime scene.]

[Close up to student in bedroom scene collecting evidence]

[Two students in mock study crime scene with dummy body look for evidence]

Working collaboratively [Close up of waste bin where student finds gun and places into evidence bag.] [Second student uses magnifying glass and takes notes.]

Developing new detection methods [Kitchen shows mock drug lab where two students take photos and collecting evidence]

New human identification techniques [Close up of student taking a swab of substance in glass container]

World leading forensics education [Close up of student in mock bedroom looking at brochures and cards left on floor]

Centre for Forensic Science research laboratories

We have purpose-built forensic laboratories with state of the art forensic equipment, chemical technology, anatomical and taphonomic facilities, Find out more about the CFS  laboratories  you will be using during your course. 

Real careers

UTS graduates have enjoyed careers as crime scene officers, forensic document examiners, forensic scientists, medical researchers and teachers.

UTS graduates

James Finger Crime Scene Officer "People who can act as the bridge between the complex world of science and the public have great opportunities".

See full details of the: Doctor of Philosophy Research degrees

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.

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PhD in Forensic Science: Course Details, Eligibility, Admission, Fees

PhD in Forensic Science is a doctorate program primarily designed for individuals who want to research the causes of people's deaths after suffering an unexpected demise. Forensic and Information Technology, Introduction to Forensic Chemistry, Ethics and Research Methods in Forensic Science, and other topics are covered in this course.

Table of Contents

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PhD Forensic Science investigates and analyses evidence from crime scenes and other locations. Forensic molecular biology (DNA), forensic chemistry, latent fingerprint analysis, guns and tool mark analysis, handwriting analysis, fire and explosives studies, forensic toxicology, and digital evidence are a few forensic specialities that are used outside of forensic laboratories. The course is research-oriented and falls under the PhD .

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in Forensic Science

Students who want to enrol in the PhD in Forensic Science program must obtain a master's degree in forensic science or a related field from a recognized university with a minimum overall grade point average of 55%. Some universities also require 65% marks at the master’s level.

In addition to meeting the conventional PhD in Forensic Science eligibility requirements, students must pass the common entrance exams and personal interviews. Additionally, students also have the reserved category and those with disabilities may receive some relaxation.

For students who desire to work in the forensic sector, there is a PhD program in Forensic Science. A successful research position in forensic science has to be exceptionally logical, analytical, time-management, and leadership skilled.

Candidates who successfully complete the programs may be able to secure employment with Professor, Biomedical Researcher, Forensic Science Researcher, Forensic Consultant, etc. 

When To Do PhD in Forensic Science Course?

If a student wants to pursue a career in forensics, he or she should begin at the 10+2 level. And must finish a master's degree in forensic science or a related field recognized Indian or foreign university.

The qualifying exam results decide whether an applicant is admitted fully or partially to the PhD in Forensic Science programs. In addition, candidates must fulfil the minimal requirements for PhD in Forensic Science eligibility, which include earning a master's degree in health and scoring well on the Forensic Science exam.

Although the admissions process for PhD in Forensic Science differs from institution to university, the typical steps one should take to achieve admission are listed below.

How to Apply?

In preparation for the COVID issue, the majority of institutions are transitioning their admissions processes entirely online. Students must go to the official websites of the universities they are going to in order to begin the application process. Students may also enrol offline by visiting the college of their choosing and submitting an application in person along with the required documentation.

Selection Process

Based on their academic performance in their Forensic Science master's degree from an accredited university, candidates are chosen in a merit-based selection process. For admission-based selection, students are required to take the entrance exam. Candidates are then qualified for the subsequent stage of admission.

After selecting a few candidates based on admission exam rankings, top universities administer a written examination. Students may be chosen by some institutions or universities based on their Postgraduate grades. The following admissions procedures vary depending on the college.

Both full-time and part-time options are available to aspirants for the course. The several PhD in Forensic Science course types are detailed below:

Full-Time PhD in Forensic Science

The PhD in Forensic Science program lasts 2-5 years and is full-time. In this subject, practical expertise trumps academic understanding. The advantage of a full-time course is that students can gain much more exposure, experience, and knowledge through close contact with other students and teachers. PhD in Forensic Science is a semester full-time program.

Part-Time PhD in Forensic Science

Students who are unable to attend regular classes should enrol in the part-time PhD in Forensic Science course. The program lasts for three years. The benefit of taking a part-time course is that students can do so while also working, going to school, etc. Some institutions offer part-time or distance learning PhD in Forensic Science programs.

Distance PhD in Forensic Science

The distance PhD in Forensic Science programs for 2-5 years are also provided in colleges/institutions because some colleges are able to provide long-distance learning for any students. 

To be accepted into the PhD in Forensic Science programs, applicants must pass the admissions tests. The institution in charge of administering the entrance exam may choose to set the requisite cut-off scores. Those who pass the PhD in Forensic Science entrance exam will be able to participate in the final selection process.

The following are some of the most well-liked PhD in Forensic Science admission tests:

• DTU PhD Entrance Exam

A Quick Glance at the PhD in Forensic Science Entrance Exams

The requirements for taking the entry above exams vary depending on the organisation administering them, therefore they are entirely dependent on them. The following are some general recommendations for admissions tests:

• The exam can be offline or online.
• Three components make up the question paper. Questions with themes can be found in the general aptitude and discipline-based sections.
• The exam duration is 3 hours.
• The question paper is set in English.
• Questions will be MCQ based
• There may be negative marking schemes.

India is home to some of the best PhD in Forensic Science universities. Candidates have a variety of choices when it comes to the best PhD in Forensic Science education, depending on their preferences. Depending on the sort of Forensic Science curriculum offered, candidates must choose wisely.

Below is the list of the best PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in India:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Delhi

India’s capital city is home to some of the best institutions for PhD in Forensic Science in India. Check the table below for the top PhD in Forensic Science colleges in Delhi:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Mumbai

Mumbai also has some of the best institutions for PhD in Forensic Science in India. Check the table below for the top PhD in Forensic Science colleges in Mumbai:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Pune

Pune is home to some of the premier institutions for PhD in Forensic Science in India. Check the table below for the best PhD in Forensic Science colleges in Pune:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Bangalore

The capital city of Karnataka is renowned around the country for colleges offering top PhD in Forensic Science programs. Check the table below for the best PhD in Forensic Science colleges in Bangalore:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Chennai

The capital city of Tamil Nadu has some of the best colleges for PhD in Forensic Science courses in India. Check the table below for the best PhD in Forensic Science colleges in Chennai:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Jaipur

The Capital City of Rajasthan has some premier institutions in the country for PhD in Forensic Science. Check the table below for top colleges for PhD in Forensic Science in Jaipur:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Government Colleges

There are several top Government Colleges offering quality PhD in Forensic Science programs across the country. Check the table below for the top PhD in Forensic Science government colleges in India:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Private Colleges

India has seen significant growth in the number of quality PhD in Forensic Science private colleges that offer some of the best programs in the country. Check the table below for the top PhD in Forensic Science private colleges in India:

PhD in Forensic Science program is at least two-five years but can be longer depending on the type of course, the college, and the country. When enrolled in PhD in Forensic Science programs overseas, students get access to some of the best facilities, lecturers, and resources. Its topic matter includes the medical sector, educational sector, research sector, etc.

Having a PhD in Forensic Science from a foreign university would help the students prepare with the knowledge that is helpful in various sectors of the science field. Below are a few of the top PhD in Forensic Science programs offered abroad, together with crucial tuition details:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges Abroad

The table below contains a list of some of the best colleges abroad for PhD in Forensic Science:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in USA

The USA is home to some of the best universities and colleges offering top-notch PhD in Forensic Science programs in the world. The table below contains the list of top colleges for PhD in Forensic Science in the USA:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in the UK

The UK has institutions that date back to the 13th century. This makes the UK one of the best destinations for pursuing engineering. The table below shows the top colleges for PhD in Forensic Science in the UK:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Canada

Known for Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for PhD in Forensic Science programs in the world. The table below shows the top universities in Canada for PhD in Forensic Science in Canada:

Top PhD in Forensic Science Colleges in Australia

For many students, Australia, also known as the 'Land Down Under,' has emerged as one of the top locations for higher education. The list of top colleges for PhD in Forensic Science in Australia is as follows:

The PhD in Forensic Science fee is not fixed and depends on many factors. Some of the factors which affect the PhD in Forensic Science fees include location, faculty, demand, infrastructure, and the facilities available to the students. The average PhD in Forensic Science course fee in India is around INR 3 - 20 LPA.

A theoretical and internal study technique are both provided to students in the PhD in Forensic Science degree. The skills necessary for Forensic Science can be learned by students. There is a defined format for the PhD in Forensic Science programs. The general subjects that will be covered in the course are listed below:

• Ethics and Research Methods in Forensic Science
• Introduction to Forensic Chemistry
• Forensic Science and Policing
• Digital Imaging in Forensic Science
• Forensic Anthropology- Introduction
• Forensic Anthropology- Advanced
• Forensic DNA Analysis
• Medical Death Investigation
• Forensic and Information Technology

Read More : PhD in Forensic Science Syllabus and Subjects

Before enrolling in a Forensic Science course, prospective students should become as knowledgeable as possible about the subject matter. By breaking the question "Why to choose PhD in Forensic Science?" into three manageable parts, the answer is made clearer:

What is PhD in Forensic Science All About?

A PhD in Forensic Science focuses on research in the field of forensics with advancements in the technology of identifying, sampling and analyzing. 

What Does a PhD in Forensic Science Graduate Do?

After receiving their degrees, they will be able to the field of Forensic Science, particularly strategy analysis collaborated with the government. Forensic Science is essential to developments in sectors including International Forensic Science Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations, Hospitals etc. Graduates will be knowledgeable in Forensic Science skills. Here are some of the most common features:

• Forensic Trainer: Forensic investigators instruct their pupils on the many forensic techniques used in a thorough forensic investigation.

Reasons Why PhD in Forensic Science Can Fetch You a Rewarding Career?

After earning a PhD in Forensic Science, both fresher and experienced professionals can pursue a variety of career opportunities. It depends on a person's aptitudes, academic performance, skills, and experience. Some of the reasons are

Demand: PhD in Forensic Science is a great career choice for those with a lot of imagination and ideas. Forensic Science with the necessary skills is in high demand in developing nations like India to fill positions at critical manufacturing divisions in both private and public sector enterprises. Forensic Science now requires qualified professionals due to the worldwide supply chain networks. 

Career Growth: Graduates of PhD in Forensic Science can choose from a variety of positions. After accumulating Forensic Science expertise, candidates can grow in their jobs.

Skill Development: Students get a lot of opportunities in enhancing their design and creativity skills that are required in the PhD in Forensic Science.

Read More: PhD in Forensic Science Jobs & Scope

Each PhD program teaches the fundamentals of research. These are some fundamental Forensic Science talents that, when combined with work-specific skills based on core functions and concentrations, will help you land a solid position. Below is a comparison of the PhD in Forensic Science course with the other courses.

PhD in Forensic Science vs PhD Pathology 

The table below showcases the differences between PhD in Forensic Science and PhD in Pathology:

When choosing to pursue a PhD in Forensic Science, students should take a number of things into consideration. The following collection of essential study tips can help students succeed in their studies so they can pass the course and the tests.

Syllabus: The student must fully comprehend the course syllabus. This is the first and most crucial step in the preparation process.

Exam Pattern: Recognize exam structure and the types of questions that are frequently asked. There is a very good chance that the students will be given multiple-choice questions. 

Important topics: Students should focus more on important topics because they are asked about them more frequently. As you read through the chapters, you must keep in mind these sections.  

Practice: Utilize sample exams and test questions from prior years to prepare for questions.

Depending on the specialisation that candidates choose, the pay for PhD in Forensic Science graduates varies. In addition to experience, geography, and the industry they work in, PhD in Forensic Science salaries in India may also be influenced by several other variables.

Graduates can increase their salary as they obtain more work experience. Starting salaries for PhD in Forensic Science positions often range from INR 3 to 30 LPA.  [Source: PayScale].

Read More: PhD in Forensic Science Salary

For PhD in Forensic Science students, there are many positions available in both the public and private sectors. The job roles will change depending on the specialisation one has chosen. Numerous job possibilities with competitive pay packages are available for PhD in Forensic Science graduates in the following job profiles:

• Biomedical Researcher
• Forensic Consultant
• Forensic Trainer
• Postmortem Expert
• Forensic Pathologist

A graduate degree in Forensic Science has different course requirements depending on the university and programs you choose. Students that take Forensic Science courses will also get expertise in that area. Some of the abilities that PhD in Forensic Science students should have:

• Interpersonal Skills
• Quantitative Aptitude
• Communication skills 

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Master’s Program in Forensic Science

The UC Davis MS in Forensic Science is a research-focused graduate program that gives you the academic foundation, practical experience and personal mentorship to pursue a successful career in forensic science.

Our diverse faculty include top academics and working professionals who are experts in their fields, ensuring that the UC Davis Master of Science Program in Forensic Science supports you with:

• Choice – Select the track - Forensic Criminalistics or Forensic DNA – that matches your interest
• Flexibility - Offering full and part-time options that work with your needs and schedule
• Mentorship - Work with a faculty advisor whose expertise and research can guide your thesis
• Network - Connect with professional alumni throughout California and the nation
• Professional Expertise - Learn how to maximize the value of the evidence

Download our program fact sheet

Degree At a Glance

• Fall 2024 Application Now Open Space Available! Deadline: 6/1/2024
• # of Classes: 12 classes (36 units) plus Thesis (18 units)
• # of Units: 54 quarter units
• Full-time: 9+ units/quarter
• Part-time: 5 or less units/quarter

UC Davis is ranked 1st in the nation for diversity, inclusiveness and internationalization

Only Forensic Science Masters Program in the UC system

Only research-focused Masters in Forensic Science program in CA

UC Davis: The Best School for a Career in Forensic Science

Our curriculum is continually updated and directly aligned with requirements for a career in forensic science. Our graduates are in demand!

Pie chart demonstrating careers of UC Davis Forensic Science Masters Program graduates.

Forensic Criminalistics Track

Forensic DNA Track

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Course type

Qualification, university name, doctorate degrees in forensic science.

13 degrees at 12 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

About Postgraduate Forensic Science

Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary field of applied science, which has many uses in non-medical professional sectors such as law-enforcement, security, museums, commercial archaeology and archiving.

At doctorate level, you’ll be focused on producing a piece of significant original research, which usually involves the study of one or more closely related subjects in parallel, such as chemistry, computer science, criminology, medical science and psychology. Having a strong undergraduate and postgraduate degree in any of these areas is a good basis for doctoral study and since the programme is largely research based, you’ll usually also need to submit a proposal for your topic of investigation.

There are over ten such courses in the UK, and they frequently include built-in specialisms like archaeological, policing or crime scene science.

What to Expect

A non-medical forensic science doctorate involves advanced research, typically involving subjects such as criminal investigations, evidence analysis, chemical analysis, taphonomy and expert testimony. Students conduct original research, contributing to advancements in forensic techniques and methodologies and the course structure typically revolves around the completion of a long-form doctoral dissertation. Assessment can also include essays, presentations and discussion-based methods.

Typically, this qualification takes three to four years to complete on a full-time basis or up to six years if studying part-time. Doctoral graduates emerge with the highest form of qualification within the field and are well-prepared for highly specialised roles in consultancy, management and further research.

Related subjects:

• Doctorate Forensic Science
• Doctorate Conservation and Protection of Specific Environments
• Doctorate Energy Economics, Management and Conservation
• Doctorate Environmental Analysis
• Doctorate Environmental Biology
• Doctorate Environmental Conservation and Policies
• Doctorate Environmental Health and Safety, Protection and Conservation
• Doctorate Environmental Management
• Doctorate Environmental Monitoring
• Doctorate Environmental Policy
• Doctorate Environmental Protection and Conservation
• Doctorate Environmental Science
• Doctorate Environmental Studies
• Doctorate General Environmental Health
• Doctorate Marine and Coastal Conservation and Protection
• Doctorate Nature Conservation and Protection
• Doctorate Police Services
• Doctorate Pollution and Pollution Control
• Doctorate Renewable Energy Resources
• Doctorate Security, Police and the Armed Forces
• Doctorate Sustainability
• Doctorate Wildlife Conservation and Protection

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Forensic Psychology - Doctorate (D. Foren. Psy.)

Cardiff metropolitan university.

Course The Doctorate in Forensic Psychology is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). It is a ‘top-up’ designed for Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £6,750 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree: £6,750 per year (UK)

Forensic Psychology - PhD

University of kent.

Study psychology at postgraduate level and you become part of a diverse, dynamic and supportive community in which to research and learn. Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

PhD (School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences) Doctorate

University of bradford.

The School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences uniquely integrates Archaeological Sciences, Biological Anthropology, Cultural Read more...

Forensic Psychology DForenPsy

University of nottingham.

Become a skilled, forensic psychologist, who'll be eligible to register with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) allowing you to Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £11,850 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £7,110 per year (UK)

Security and Crime Science MPhil/PhD

Ucl (university college london).

The department of security and crime sciences is organised into five centres of excellence Geographical Analysis; The Designing Out Crime Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £6,035 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,930 per year (UK)

Doctor of Psychology Forensic Psychology

Nottingham trent university.

The Doctor of Psychology in Forensic Psychology (DPsych in Forensic Psychology) is a research-based professional doctoral course for Read more...

• 2.5 years Part time degree: £3,600 per year (UK)

Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate (CPD route)

University of birmingham.

Our Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate (CPD route) allows suitably qualified Forensic Psychologists to ‘top up’ their existing MSc Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £10,800 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree: £5,400 per year (UK)

Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate (ForenPsyD)

Our Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate (ForenPsyD) confers the award of Doctorate in Forensic Psychology Practice and provides Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £12,600 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree

PhD Forensic Science

University of lincoln.

Research students in Forensic Science have the opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team in the School of Chemistry, and can Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,830 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,415 per year (UK)

DForenPsy Doctorate in Forensic Psychology

University of manchester.

Programme description The Post Qualification Professional Doctorate in Forensic Psychology programme aims to provide you with the Read more...

Forensic & Neurodevelopmental Sciences MPhil/PhD/MD(Res)

King's college london, university of london.

The Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences (FANS) in the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) is Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £7,950 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £3,975 per year (UK)

Forensic & Investigative Sciences PhD

Anglia ruskin university.

Pursue your research studies with a pioneering group in analysis-based research and make a valuable contribution to scientific Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 2.5 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)
• 3.5 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Forensic Psychology, Crime Scene Evidence and Policing PhD

Abertay university.

Abertay’s Division of Psychology and Forensic Sciences has a strong and active role in delivering research degrees, including those in Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,829 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,415 per year (UK)

Course type:

• Full time Doctorate
• Part time Doctorate

Qualification:

Related subjects:.

Marshall forensic science graduate students’ FSAT scores lead the nation

For the test, which is administered by the American Board of Criminalistics, students are required to answer 200 questions in 20 categories covering various crime laboratory disciplines, as well as ethics, law and safety. Marshall’s second-year graduate students have led the nation on this test for 13 of the past 15 years.

“The faculty and staff are incredibly proud of our students and their consistent success on this exam,” said Lauren Waugh, director of Marshall’s Forensic Science Graduate Program. “We are honored to be able to attract students with the knowledge and drive that this particular group has demonstrated. They all had impressive undergraduate careers, have excelled in their classes here, represented the program well at national meetings and have all already had job interviews. This achievement is the icing on the cake for them and for our program.”

Marshall’s M.S. Forensic Science program offers four areas of emphasis: DNA analysis, forensic chemistry, digital forensics, and crime scene investigation. Each area of emphasis is covered by faculty who have worked as a forensic scientist or investigator in the discipline they teach, Waugh said.

“We offer a unique opportunity to our students by allowing them to pursue multiple areas of emphasis rather than requiring them to focus on just one,” Waugh said. Also, Marshall’s program is one of only two graduate programs in forensic science with a digital forensics emphasis accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission, she said.

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University’s Lee College Recognizes Exemplary Students

As part of its annual awards ceremony, the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences recognized dozens of students across all its disciplines, celebrating their achievements in and out of the classroom.

May 23, 2024

By Renee Chmiel, Office of Marketing and Communications

As a Charger and a member of the University’s Honors program, Anna Marcotte ’24, ’25 M.S. was committed to research. She was excited to build her skills and work with experts, which she did in the classroom, through her internship, and through her work on her thesis.

A forensic science major , Marcotte describes her thesis, titled, “Validation of an Extraction Kit for Use in the Field Detection of Low Dose Opioids,” as one of the accomplishments of which she is most proud. As she wrapped up her final semester as an undergraduate, she added another that created a great sense of pride, as she was recognized as part of the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences 2024 awards ceremony.

Marcotte received an Honors medallion, which David Schroeder, Ph.D. , associate dean of the Lee College , presented to Honors program students who completed four Honors courses, participated in Honors program activities, maintained a high GPA, and completed a thesis. Marcotte was also recognized as a John D. Hatfield scholar .

“The Honors medallion was a final recognition of the work I have put in for the last four years,” said Marcotte, a criminal justice minor who also served as a laboratory intern for RedWave Technology. “Between the courses and my thesis, I have spent many hours working toward my Honors program requirements, learning valuable lessons along the way about perseverance, problem solving, and research.”

‘People are seeing the hard work I put in’

As part of the ceremony, outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in every discipline in the Lee College, from criminal justice and national security to investigations and forensic technology , were recognized. They were lauded for service, academics, research, and dedication.

Marcotte also received the Outstanding Student in Forensic Science Award. She was one of two undergraduate students (along with Madison Marino ’25) to receive the award. Marcotte says this recognition was a wonderful surprise.

“I realized people are seeing the hard work I put in even when I don’t think that anyone is watching,” she said. “It was nice to realize that other people are seeing that effort. In a program full of driven and intelligent students, I was honored to be selected for the Outstanding Student in Forensic Science Award.”

‘I should be proud’

Faculty members presented the awards to meritorious students, praising their scholarship, leadership, and hard work. It was a celebration of all that the students have accomplished during the past academic year.

For Liam Orsini ’24, ’25 M.S., receiving an Honors medallion was especially meaningful. He says he doesn’t always reflect on his accomplishments, but as he wrapped up his final semester as an undergraduate and was recognized for scholarship and hard work, he thought of all he’d achieved as a Charger.

A new national security graduate, Orsini completed an internship at SafeAbroad, which prepares travelers and study abroad managers to navigate and manage the risks of international education. He also had his own experience studying abroad at the University’s campus in Prato, Italy, which he describes as the “most impactful” opportunity he had as a Charger.

“Receiving the award was beneficial to me as a way of validating my effort throughout these past four years,” said Orsini, who will return to the University this fall to pursue his master’s degree as part of the 4+1 program . “In most cases, I see a task, complete it, and look to move on to the next one. The award ceremony and the medallion reminded me that what I’ve done in my college career was significant and that I should be proud of what I've achieved.”

‘We are change agents’

As part of the ceremony, Sharonda Carlos ’19 MPA, deputy commissioner of administration for the Connecticut Department of Correction, received the Lee College’s lifetime achievement award. Speaking to the current students and soon-to-be alumni, she congratulated them and encouraged them to “stay committed.

“Maintain your courage to have strength amid opposition,” she continued. “You’re needed in this field. Know that we are change agents. We can take what we learned in the Lee College and apply it to make a difference.”

Marcotte, the new forensic science grad, is looking forward to continuing to make an impact. She will be returning to the University in the fall to begin her master’s degree in chemistry.

“The University has given me so many great opportunities to grow,” she said. “I am excited for what the next year has to offer."

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