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 Each student is required to successfully complete the Core Curriculum which provides the student with a broad-based educational experience in forensic science. Courses included in the Core Curriculum are as follows:
| Course # |
Core Course |
Credit Hours
|
| FSC 604 |
Genetics and DNA Technology
A comprehensive lecture series that covers the genetics and biochemistry of DNA to include the analysis, ethical considerations and quality assurance techniques used to analyze DNA for identification purposes. This course serves as a core course in the forensic science curriculum. |
3
|
| FSC 606 |
Crime Scene & Death Investigation
Establishes foundations and techniques for proper crime scene investigation with or without a victim’s body. Logical approach for collecting evidence and documenting scene and collection process. |
2
|
| FSC 612 |
Introduction to Forensic Microscopy
Introduction to various types of microscopy used in forensics, including scanning electron, light, fluorescence and polarizing microscopy. |
2
|
| FSC 618 |
Forensic Comparative Science
Introduction to comparative methods used by forensic scientists for analysis of fingerprints, questioned documents, and firearms. |
2
|
| FSC 622 |
Forensic Analytical Chemistry I
Introduction to analytical instrumentation used by forensic scientists for analysis of drugs, arson, explosives, and trace evidence. Lab stresses sample handling, instrumental analysis, and data interpretation from simulated crime scenes. |
3
|
| FSC 624 |
Biochemistry: Forensics
This comprehensive course in biochemistry focuses on concepts appropriate to forensic science and designed to meet forensic science educational standards at a national level. |
4
|
| FSC 630 |
Forensic Internship
A 10 week internship in a crime lab or other forensic science related research laboratory. Application of principles and techniques learned during the first year of program. (PR: Completion of two semesters in Forensic Science Program). |
5
|
| FSC 632 |
Foundation & Fundamentals in Digital Evidence
This course will provide an overview of the foundations of digital forensics and its component sub disciplines: computer, audio, and video forensics. The course will be taught as a combination of lectures, laboratory, and practical exercises. |
3
|
| FSC 665 |
Forensic Science Legal Issues
Covers the American legal system with specific emphasis on expert witnessing by forensic scientists. Mock trials provide experience in the courtroom. (PR: CJ 321, Consent of Instructor) |
3
|
| FSC 680 |
Forensic Science Seminar: Term 1
Faculty, student, and guest speaker presentations on topics pertinent to forensic science. |
1
|
| FSC 680 |
Forensic Science Seminar: Term 2
Faculty, student, and guest speaker presentations on topics pertinent to forensic science. |
1
|
| FSC 680 |
Forensic Science Seminar: Term 3
Faculty, student, and guest speaker presentations on topics pertinent to forensic science. |
1
|
| FSC 680 |
Forensic Science Seminar: Term 4
Faculty, student, and guest speaker presentations on topics pertinent to forensic science. |
1
|
| MTH 519 |
Forensic Science Statistical Issues
Course covers basic theory of probability and statistics, Bayesian Analysis, likelihood ratios, population and statistical aspects of genetics, statistical issues in paternity testing and mixtures, and presenting evidence. (PR: Admission to M.S. program in Forensic Science, or permission) |
3
|
| N/A |
Elective |
4
|
| Total |
38
|
Areas of Emphasis
In addition to the required core curriculum, students are required to complete at least one (1) area of emphasis; however, it is not uncommon for students to complete multiple areas of emphasis during the five-semester program. Once complete, the area of emphasis is applied to the graduates’ transcript which is often helpful when applying for employment in specialized areas of forensic science.
Multiple Areas of Emphasis
Forensic Science students are required to complete one area of emphasis; however, up to four areas of emphasis may be completed. When completing multiple areas of emphasis, the four- hour core course elective requirement is waived.
The Program Advisor approves a students eligibility to pursue multiple areas of emphasis based on the following criteria; the student must:
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better;
- Demonstrate overall good academic standing, i.e., no current probationary status, not more than two C’s, and no grades of less than C in required courses;
- Be approved by the Graduate College Dean to exceed 15 credit hours per term, if applicable;
- Be approved by the Financial Aid Office to exceed the 54 credit hour limit, if applicable.
Recommended Elective Courses
| Course # |
Recommended Electives |
Credit Hours |
| FSC 610 |
Bioterrorism
Course traces the historical development, current status, and future threats of bioterrorism in the U.S. and on a global scale. Issues addressed include microbiology, surveillance, detection and post-event investigation. |
3 |
| FSC 681 |
Thesis
Research conducted in the laboratories at Marshall University focused on a problem of forensic importance. The original research problem will be written up as a formal document and submitted as part of the requirements to fulfill a Master of Science degree in the research track. |
1-6 |
| FSC 685 |
Introduction to Research
Directed research which can be used to satisfy requirements for a Master of Science Degree in Forensic Science. |
1-6 |
| BMS 670 |
Basic Methods in Molecular Cloning
This course is designed to expose students to basic molecular cloning techniques, such as genomic library construction, preparation of plasmid DNA, sub cloning, nucleic acid hybridization, and DNA sequencing. |
2 |
| ARB 101 |
Elementary Arabic I
Basic language structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. For students with no foreign language
background. |
3 |
| PMC 610 |
Introduction to Pharmacology
An in-depth presentation of the history and introductory principles of pharmacology. Designed to acquaint students with pharmacology as a scientific discipline and provide the basis for more advanced courses. |
3 |
FSC 630 Internship Information
Forensic Science students are required to register for Internship (FSC 630) in the summer term of their first year. Internship consists of a 10-week term that includes 32 hours/week commitment spent with an approved forensic related agency or facility. As a science-based program, all internships must include a research component. The Forensic Science Program maintains an Alumni Directory as a resource for students seeking internships. Historically, the Program has enjoyed a 100% internship placement rate for its students. The Program encourages, and does not limit, students from seeking internships across the U.S. and around the world. Upon entry into the Forensic Science Program, students are encouraged to begin their internship search with the aid of their advisor. Forensic internship agencies may require completion of lengthy forms, background checks, and polygraphs, etc., all of which may take months for processing and approval.
While the Program and the West Virginia State Police offer several on-site and local internships, a significant number of students have also interned outside of West Virginia to “make themselves known” to an agency where they may seek employment following graduation. Others have sought internships that allow the student intern to return to their home town or state. Other out-of-state internships have been sought when a particular forensic science specialty was not available in West Virginia. For those students securing internships with West Virginia-based law enforcement agencies, testing laboratories or other state-related forensic establishments, a stipend may be awarded depending on Program funding availability. Paid internships may be available within the MU Forensic Science Center in areas such as CODIS, Computer Forensics, Microbial Forensics, Crime Scene Investigation, and Forensic Chemistry. Current funding is available through the NIJ DNA Crime Lab Technical Assistance Program (TAP). Students are responsible for making internship contacts, entering into internship contracts and any financial responsibility associated with their internship.
Comprehensive Exam
Forensic Science students are required to pass a comprehensive written examination to be eligible for graduation. No more than two assessments are permitted. Failure to pass the comprehensive examination will result in the student being placed on probation during which time they must meet with their examining committee to discuss their deficiencies and identify strategies to correct them. Re-testing must be scheduled for a subsequent term. When students fail the second reassessment, the department will recommend their dismissal by the Graduate College.
The Comprehensive Examination is a day-long examination covering seven areas:
- Crime Scene and Death Investigation
- Forensic Comparative Science
- Forensic Analytical Chemistry I
- Genetics & DNA Technologies
- Introduction to Forensic Microscopy
- Foundations and Fundamentals in Digital Evidence
- Forensic Science Legal Issues
The Comprehensive Examination may also include additional questions from courses specific to the area of emphasis.
Thesis Option
Students may elect the thesis option which requires research and course work above and beyond the standard forensic science curriculum. The thesis track provides an in-depth research experience where students conduct original forensic science research and prepare, as well as defend, a written thesis based on their investigation. Each thesis-option student, along with their advisor, will select a graduate committee to oversee the thesis project and to assess its successful completion. The thesis track requires that the student complete a minimum of FSC 685 (3 credit hours) and FSC 681 (3 credit hours) in addition to the standard forensic science curriculum. The thesis option may require an additional one to two semesters to complete.
FEPAC accredited Master of Science Degree Program |
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