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Admissions Information

Forensic Science, MS

Welcome from Program Director

We are pleased that you are considering pursuing your education in the rapidly evolving field of Forensic Science. Our MS in Forensic Science program is tailored for individuals with a passion for forensic research and a desire to apply their knowledge to enhance the criminal justice system. 

The Interdisciplinary Forensics program at Arizona State University integrates innovative research with practical application, providing you with the necessary skills to contribute to the criminal justice system. Whether your aspirations lie in crime laboratories, research endeavors, industry collaborations, or further education, our program offers a structured, adaptable, and supportive framework to facilitate your career advancement. 

Our faculty members are highly experienced professionals dedicated to guiding students through a comprehensive curriculum that integrates forensic science, research methodologies, and practical applications to the field. Our diverse faculty comprises renowned researchers in a wide range of specialties. Furthermore, our collaborative community promotes meaningful connections and opportunities for professional development. 

As a student in our program, you will explore topics such as: 

  • Application of forensic biology techniques to evidence analysis.
  • Analysis and research in forensic chemistry and toxicology.
  • Research methods in a variety of forensic science disciplines.

We invite you to learn more about our MS in Forensic Science by visiting our website, attending an information session, or reaching out to our admissions team. We look forward to helping you take the next step in your academic and professional journey. 

Warm regards, 
Jonathan Parrott, PhD

 

Campus Immersion Program at a Glance

Location: West Valley Campus
Credit Hours: 32
Schedule: evening classes
Time to Completion: 4 semesters full-time; 6 semesters part-time
Admit Terms: Fall
Application Deadlines
 

Connect:

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Explore:

Program Handbook     MS Forensic Science Coursework     Program Advising

Pursuing a graduate degree represents a pivotal juncture in your academic and professional path. We are committed to ensuring that you are well-informed and well-prepared for this significant journey. To facilitate your exploration and understanding of the program, we encourage you to delve into our advising website. Here, you can access vital information regarding program prerequisites, course offerings, and the expertise of our esteemed faculty.

We particularly recommend a thorough review of the curriculum check sheet and the program handbook. These documents offer an insightful glimpse into what you can expect during your academic journey, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of the program's requirements and guidelines. Your time spent exploring these resources will be invaluable as you embark on this next chapter of your education.

Application Components

The ASU Graduate Admission Application requires personal information, academic history, residency information and degree selection.  After you select your degree, you will be prompted for the following supplemental materials.  
 
If you need assistance with filling out any part of the application please visit us online at: https://admission.asu.edu/apply/graduate/admission 

Completed applications must be electronically submitted to ASU and include the following:

Forensic Science

The Forensic Science program requires two letters of recommendation.  It is preferred that letters of recommendation be from faculty members who know the applicant's work well; if these are not available, letters of recommendation from individuals in supervisory or professional roles will be accepted. If letters of recommendation from three faculty members are not available, then it is strongly preferred that at least one letter be from a faculty member.

The statement of purpose should give the committee a better picture of who you are, share your academic and professional goals, scholarly interests,  as well as explain why you decided to pursue this particular graduate program.  

The statement should be compelling, show off your writing skills, and include specific research interests.  

Your personal statement should be no more than two double-spaced pages.

A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on 4.0 scale in the last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of undergraduate coursework. If you do not meet the minimum GPA requirements, a GRE score is required.

If you are recommended for admission by the academic unit, you will be required to provide an official transcript (sent to us by mail directly from the institution). Your offer of admission and ability to register for classes will be contingent upon the receipt and verification of these official documents (which must show the award of degrees where appropriate).

The unofficial transcript that is uploaded must match the official transcript we receive. Do not upload spreadsheet documents as these are not acceptable for review. Instead, you can use a screen-capture or a picture of the official transcript and copy and paste the image onto a Word document. You are also allowed to scan and upload a copy of your official transcripts (this is preferred). Please include the transcript key or legend (often on the back of the official transcript) in your upload.


Arizona State University reserves the right to require official transcripts any time prior to admission review and revoke any admission decisions if the unofficial transcript(s) do not match the official transcripts.


Please make sure your unofficial transcript document includes your required bachelor's degree transcript. If you have transcripts from more than one university or have multiple degrees from the same university, please upload all transcripts in one file.


If unofficial transcripts are not uploaded at time of application, official transcripts will be required to be submitted before your application will move forward for review for admission.

International applicants should review details online to determine if a TOEFL or IELTS score must be submitted. Information can be found by visiting students.asu.edu/graduate/proficiency.

Review Process

Review of applications for admission are done on a rolling basis. Typically decisions are returned within 14 calendar days from the date the application is ‘in review’. The decision timeframe may increase during peak cycles.

Applicants can view the status of their application online via My ASU. The New College may reach out to request additional information or provide updates so it is important to check your email regularly.  

After submitting your application please contact ncgradadmissions@asu.edu with any questions.


While you wait for a decision we recommend that you: