The Master of Science degree in Forensic Science is a Purdue University degree offered in the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program.
Forensic science is the application of scientific methods and processes to matters that involve crime or the public. The Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program combines the best of biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, along with criminal justice and law.
The M.S. in Forensic Science requires 30 credit hours of study beyond the baccalaureate level. The thesis option can be completed in two years. It is designed for students seeking careers as professional forensic scientists who desire employment in the criminal justice field or a related area.
Students who chose the thesis option are encouraged to identify a thesis topic with the help of the FIS faculty as soon as possible. It is normally expected that the research and write up of the thesis will take at least one year of the program. Collaborative research projects with local forensic science laboratories are encouraged. Thesis research done in conjunction with a crime lab must be approved by the student's thesis director at IUPUI.
Understanding the requirements
Thesis option
Students must apply in one of the following concentrations: forensic chemistry or forensic biology. Here are the required courses:
- Core courses (10 credits)
- FIS 50500 - Current Issues in Forensic Science (3 credits)
- FIS 50600 - Advanced Forensic Microscopy (3 credits)
- FIS 51500 - Legal Issues in Forensic Science (3 credits)
- FIS 69500 - Forensic Science Seminar Series (1 credit)
- Additional required courses for forensic biology concentration (8 credits)
- FIS 52100 - Forensic Biology (3 credits)
- FIS 52101 - Forensic Biology Lab (2 credits)
- FIS 53000 - Population Genetics (3 credits)
- Additional required courses for forensic chemistry concentration (8 credits)
- FIS 51100 - Forensic Chemistry I (3 credits)
- FIS 51101 - Forensic Chemistry I Lab (1 credit)
- FIS 51200 - Forensic Chemistry II (3 credits)
- FIS 51201 - Forensic Chemistry II Lab (1 credit)
Students will take an additional 3 credit course in their area of specialty (and with the guidance of their thesis advisor). The remainder of the credits taken are FIS 69800 Thesis Research (9 credits).
To learn more about our faculty and their areas of research, visit the research page.
When you are ready to apply, check out our admissions requirements.