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Forensic Science

Developed with the input of crime lab directors across the Midwest

Master of Science in Forensic Science (MSFS)

Get a world-class education with one-on-one guidance and opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Designed to meet Forensic Science Education Program Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) standards, the courses offered in Emporia State University’s Master of Science in Forensic Science (MSFS) program facilitate hands-on learning and research, supervised by professors and practitioners in the field.

Classes

The MSFS program offers small classes and one-on-one mentoring. Classes are primarily on campus, but some may be taught at alternate times (evenings or weekends) and some may be amenable to distance learning (i.e. attending via Zoom). The curriculum is designed to give you plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning.

Research

Every student in the MSFS program is required to complete a research project supervised by a faculty member. Students are guided through the process of choosing a project topic, reviewing relevant literature, conducting experiments, and presenting their research during program seminars. Presentations of research at regional and national meetings is encouraged. Student research committees are composed of ESU faculty and may include practitioners from the state of Kansas.

NETWORKING

Ample opportunities to interact with practitioners in the field are given throughout the program. The MSFS public seminar series brings in speakers from all over the country. Our graduates have mentored many current students, and attendance at regional and national meetings also provides opportunities for networking.

INTERNSHIPS

All students, regardless of discipline, are encouraged to apply for internships; however, internship is not required for the degree.  More information about participating agencies may be found here (link to internship page).

Forensic Science Crime Lab

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The only program of its kind in the state of Kansas, the MSFS is fully customizable to meet your career goals and educational needs. One-on-one mentoring and small class sizes ensure you receive personal attention. Apply and begin your journey to earning your degree in Forensic Science.

Apply to the Master of Science in Forensic Science program

Explore our Concentrations

Forensic Science, Biology Concentration

Concentration, Master of Science

The MSFS-Biology concentration prepares you for careers in forensic biology, DNA analysis, CODIS and forensic toxicology. An undergraduate background in biology or biochemistry is necessary for this program. Curriculum for this program meets the requirements outlined for DAN analysts by the DNA Advisory Board Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.

Forensic Science, Chemistry Concentration

Concentration, Master of Science

The MSFS-Chemistry concentration prepares you for careers in forensic toxicology, drug identification, fire debris analysis or trace evidence. An undergraduate background in chemistry or biochemistry is necessary for this program.

Forensic Science, Criminalistics Concentration

Concentration, Master of Science

The MSFS-Criminalistics concentration prepares you for careers in crime scene investigation, trace evidence, firearms or latent fingerprints. An undergraduate background in natural science, forensic science or social science (criminal justice, criminology) background is necessary for this program.

4+1 Accelerated Undergraduate + Graduate Programs

Get a head start on your graduate forensic science degree as an undergraduate student with our 4+1 accelerated programs! Earn both your bachelor’s and master’s in five years by completing your degrees simultaneously.

4+1 accelerated programs
Forensic Science Crime Lab

Seminar Series

Join us for the 2022-23 seminar series. Seminars are free and open to the public; however, parental discretion is advised as some programs have themes suited to a mature audience and may contain graphic images not suitable for children. This year’s series will explore Kansas Crimes, including the murders of Sandra Bird and Marten Anderson (the subject of the movie Murder Ordained), the murder at the She’s a Pistol gun shop, and the Debra Green killings.

Seminar Series

Learn more about the Masters in Forensic Science Program

Student in Emporia State's Forensic Science mock crime lab

Admissions Requirements

Learn requirements to apply to the Forensic Science program.

Admissions Requirements
Forensic Science Class Mock Crime Scene

Financial Aid

Learn about financial aid available to students.

Financial Aid
Students using computer lab

Directory

Meet the faculty you'll work with.

Forensic Science Directory
Emporia State student studying

About Us

Learn more about our department.

About the Forensic Science Department
Students performing research

Internships

Intern in regional crime laboratories.

Internships
Students studying in Emporia State lab

Program

Explore a sample class schedule.

Forensic Science Program Information