Admission BPS MS FS
Requirements Heading link
Applicants to this program should understand that it is highly competitive. In recent years, an admitted student profile has consisted of a chemistry or biochemistry major from a strong undergraduate program with a GPA of at least 3.40 / 4.00 and minimum GRE scores of 310 out of 340 (verbal score + quantitative score) and 5.0 or higher in analytical writing. We do not encourage and do not normally admit students on non-degree or limited standing status, and we admit only to the fall semester.
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Bachelor's Degree
Applicants for this master’s degree program must have an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry or biological sciences.
- Those whose interests tend towards drug chemistry, toxicology, trace evidence / materials analysis, and other aspects of forensic chemistry are advised to major in chemistry.
- Those whose interests tend toward biological evidence analysis and DNA are advised to major in Biochemistry.
- Students who are interested in forensic DNA analysis should take one course each in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology.
Biological science majors should take analytical chemistry (quantitative analysis), instrumental analysis, and a semester each of biochemistry and physical chemistry, to strengthen their applications.
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Grade Point Average (GPA)
A minimum overall GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale for undergraduate work is required. Applications are strengthened by GPAs of 3.25/4.00 in basic science and mathematics courses. Official transcripts of undergraduate study and graduate courses must be mailed to the department.
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Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
The GRE General Test is required, with a minimum GRE scores of 310/340 (verbal score + quantitative score) and 5.0 or higher in analytical writing.
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International Applicants
International applicants must submit the results of a TOEFL iBT Examination or the IELTS.
- The TOEFL iBT recommended scores are Writing 22, Speaking 23, Listening 21, Reading 21, and a total score of 87 or higher.
- The IELTS recommended scores are minimum of 6 on all subtests, and a total score of 6.5.
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Statement of Interest
A one-page statement of purpose should be submitted, concisely describing why you seek admission to this program, and how you believe its completion will further your educational and career plans. Our goal is to educate and train forensic scientists for the nation’s forensic science laboratories. The program is not appropriate for students whose interests are in forensic medicine, anthropology, entomology, psychology, psychiatry, criminal profiling, or crime scene investigation.
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Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation are required. They should preferably be strong, persuasive letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic background and ability, and who can judge your potential for graduate study.