Master of Science in Biological Forensics

Master of Science in Biological Forensics 

The Master of Science degree in Biological Forensics is distinctive in name and in the training offered, yet complementary to forensic pattern analysis. The degree can be completed in two years or students may pursue the program as part time students. The curricular path provides training in forensic entomology, forensic microbiology, forensic anthropology, biological forensics, veterinary forensics, death investigation, DNA analysis, and fingerprints. In addition to developing a range of technical and specific skills to advance students' career options, this degree program will also enhance the broader development of students' skills in a manner consistent with Loyola's mission.

The attributes of a forensic science professional are consistent with those of a Loyola graduate: excellent oral and written communication skills; intellectual curiosity; use of interdisciplinary approaches; critical thinking skills; commitment to life-long learning; and strong moral and ethical character. No matter what task assigned, a forensic investigator seeks only for truth. These attributes are the hallmarks of a Jesuit education, and all students pursuing a degree in biological forensics would be required to develop and use these learning skills.

2024-2025 Program Requirements

2025-2026 Program Requirements

The degree consists of 38-41 graduate credit hours. Requirements for a major and an example of a typical program of courses are as follows:

Biological Forensic Foundation

• FO 530 Criminalistics
• FO 600 Crime Scene Investigation
• FO 651 Advanced Forensic Entomology
• FO 656/657 Biological Forensics and lab
• FO 677 Death Investigation
• FO 681 Forensic Microbiology
• FO 725 Forensic DNA Analysis
• FO 79* Forensics Science Capstone
• WR 626 Advanced Techmical Writing

Electives (select three course) 9-11 credits

• FO 584 Forensic Chemistry
• FO 610 Fingerprints
• FO 630 Quality Control & Assurance Forensic Laboratory
• FO 645 Veterinary Forensics
• FO 647 Trace Evidence & Questioned Documents
• FO 650 Forensic Pattern Evidence
• FO 675 Mock trial in Forensic Pattern Evidence
• FO 676 Digital & Forensic Imaging
• FO 690 Topics in Forensic Science
• FO 695 Crime Scene and Evidence Photography
• FO 700 Statistics in Forensic Science
• FO 706 Investigations into Violent Crimes
• FO 710 Advanced Topics and Techniques in Fingerprints
• FO 711 Animal Law
• FO 715 Forensic Anthropology
• FO 731 Forensic Science Management
• FO 740 Bloodstain Pattern Analysis & Crime Scene Reconstruction
• FO 752 Forensic Science Errors and Wrongful Convictions
• FO 781 Cold Case Investigations
• GB 705 Leading and Managing People
• PL 611 Bioethics
• ST 681 Probability and Statistics

Course Sequence

First Year

Fall Term

• FO 530 Criminalistics
• FO 656 Biological Forensics
• FO 657 Biological Forensics Lab
• WR 626 Advanced Technical Writing OR
  Elective

Spring Term

• FO 600 Crime Scene Investigation
• FO 725 Forensic DNA Analysis
• WR 626 Advanced Technical Writing OR
  Elective

Second Year

Fall Term

• FO 680 Forensic Microbiology
• FO 651 Advanced Forensic Entomology
• FO 79* Forensic Science Capstone OR
  Elective

Spring Term

• FO 677 Death Investigation
•  Elective
• FO 79* Forensic Science Capstone OR
  Elective

Contact Us

We hope that you will explore our program. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at:

Graduate Admissions
graduate@loyola.edu
410-617-5020

Theresa Allen
Director of Program Operations
Forensic Science Graduate Programs
teallen@loyola.edu
410-617-2642

David Rivers, Ph.D.
Chair, Dept of Forensic Science
Graduate Director, M.S. Biological Forensics
drivers@loyola.edu