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 and wildlife 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.

Learning Aims

Curriculum

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 656/657 Biological Forensics and lab
• FO 530 Criminalistics
• FO 600 Crime Scene Investigation
• FO 677 Death Investigation
• FO 700 Statistics in Forensic Science

Ecological Evidence (select two courses)

• FO 651 Forensic Entomology
• FO 645 Veterinary and Wildlife Forensics
• FO 680 Forensic Microbiology

Person’s Identification (select one course)

• FO 610 Fingerprints
• FO 715 Forensic Anthropology
• FO 725 Forensic DNA Analysis

Technical Writing (select one course)

• WR 625 Professional Writing
• WR 626 Technical Writing

Electives (select three course) 9-11 credits

• FO 584 Forensic Chemistry
• FO 630 Biological and Forensic Science Laboratory Quality Assurance
• 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 706 Investigations into Violent Crimes
• FO 710 Advanced Topics and Techniques in Fingerprints
• FO 731 Forensic Science Management
• FO 752 Errors in Forensic Science and Wrongful Convictions
• FO 773 Special Topics in Forensic Biology
• FO 781 Cold Case Investigations
• FO 790 Forensic Science Internship
• FO 791 Forensic Science Research
• FO 792 Forensic Science Independent Study
• GB 705 Leading and Managing People
• PL 611 Bioethics
• ST 681 Probability and Statistics

Key:  Use for any additional information necessary regarding courses listed above. For examples, please visit the current Graduate or Undergraduate Catalogue.

Proposed Course Sequence

First Year

Fall Term

• FO 530 Criminalistics
• FO 656/657 Biological Forensics and lab
• FO 700 Statistics in Forensic Science or Ecological Evidence elective

Spring Term

• FO 600 Crime Scene Investigation or Person’s Identification elective
• Writing elective or Ecological Evidence elective
• FO 677 Death Investigation or Elective

Second Year

Fall Term

• FO 600 Crime Scene Investigation or Person’s Identification elective
• Writing elective or Ecological Evidence elective
• FO 700 Statistics in Forensic Science or Ecological Evidence elective

Spring Term

• Elective
• Writing elective or Ecological Evidence elective or Elective
• FO 677 Death Investigation or Elective
  
   

Notes: Foundation courses will be offered every year, as well the technical writing courses. Ecological Evidence and Person’s Identification courses will be offered at least once every other year; more frequently depending on student enrollments. Most elective courses will be offered every year.

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