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The UAB Master of Science in Forensic Science program is one of fewer than 30 Master of Science in Forensic Science programs in the U.S. accredited by FEPAC, the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission. Our program prepares students for careers in various forensic science and conventional analytical laboratories, emphasizing the application of scientific methods and technologies to legal proceedings. It may also be used to build a strong foundation for doctoral and professional studies and offers the opportunity for students to pursue a Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics that involves additional, elective coursework.

Congratulations to the classes of 2022-2024. During this time 30 students completed the program. Of these, 22 (73%) are working in a laboratory. Eighteen of the graduates are employed in municipal or state forensic science laboratories, one in a computer forensic laboratory, three are employed in commercial laboratories, and two are in PhD programs. Of the remaining graduates, one graduate was working in a different field and five were not employed or did not respond to the post-graduate survey. The students in the graduating classes of 2022-24 also participated in internships at the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, the UAB Core Toxicology Laboratory, and Labcorp.

According to the National Institute of Justice, students wishing to pursue a career in forensic science should be aware that positions in these fields usually require extensive background checks similar to those required for law enforcement personnel, and are likely a condition of employment.

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The program support includes many UAB faculty members from other departments, personnel from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences' Birmingham laboratory, the Jefferson County Medical Examiner's Office, and local forensic science-related private institutions. In addition, the program maintains a close working relationship with the DNA profiling laboratories of the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences and hosts the editorial offices of the Forensic Science Review (the only review journal in forensic science). Faculty research and practice focus especially on forensic aspects of drug chemistry and DNA-based identification.

For more information contact the Director of Graduate Studies in Forensic Science, Jason Linville.

Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Admissions

Admissions

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