M.S. in Forensic Science

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at Marshall University, international students are required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

2. Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.                                                                                                                                            

3. Standardized Tests (GRE or GMAT): 

   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum GRE score of 300 is required.
      
4. Course by Course WES required.

Marshall University offers several scholarship opportunities to international students to help them with the cost of their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and other criteria. 

1. Marshall University Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on their academic performance. The specific criteria and the value of the scholarships may vary. Students are automatically considered for these scholarships during the admission process.

2. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarship: Marshall University offers scholarships to students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP) to improve their English language skills before beginning their degree program. These scholarships can help reduce the cost of language preparation.

3. International Student Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary based on academic achievement and program of study.

4. Undergraduate Competitive Scholarships: Marshall University provides a range of competitive scholarships for undergraduate international students. These may be based on factors like leadership, community involvement, or specific academic achievements.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students have the opportunity to apply for assistantship positions. These positions may involve research or teaching and often include a stipend and tuition benefits.

6. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Marshall University's International Student Office can provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

7. Honors College Scholarships: Exceptional undergraduate students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of advanced academic and research opportunities.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Marshall University offer scholarships or assistantships specific to students in certain fields of study. Prospective graduate students should inquire within their respective departments.

9. Athletic Scholarships: International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they are recruited to participate in Marshall University's sports programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can change over time.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Forensic Science is a distinguished program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of forensic science.Marshall University's M.S. in Forensic Science program offers a wide range of career prospects for graduates. Whether they choose to work in crime laboratories, as crime scene investigators, digital forensic experts, or in other specialized areas, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field of forensic science.

1. Forensic Scientist: Graduates of the M.S. in Forensic Science program are well-prepared for careers as forensic scientists. They work in forensic laboratories, specializing in various disciplines such as DNA analysis, toxicology, ballistics, and serology to analyze evidence related to criminal investigations.

2. Crime Scene Investigator: Crime scene investigators, often known as CSIs, are responsible for collecting, documenting, and preserving physical evidence at crime scenes. They play a crucial role in the initial stages of investigations.

3. Digital Forensic Analyst: In the digital age, digital forensic analysts are in high demand. They recover and analyze digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, and storage media, assisting in cybercrime investigations.

4. Forensic Pathologist: Forensic pathologists are medical doctors who perform autopsies and determine the cause of death in cases of suspicious or unexplained deaths. They often work closely with law enforcement agencies and medical examiners.

5. Fingerprint Examiner: Fingerprint examiners compare latent fingerprints found at crime scenes with known individuals' prints to identify suspects or victims.

6. Forensic Toxicologist: Forensic toxicologists analyze bodily fluids and tissues to detect drugs, alcohol, and poisons, contributing to investigations involving poisoning or overdose cases.

7. Forensic DNA Analyst: Forensic DNA analysts work with DNA evidence, helping to identify suspects and establish relationships between individuals in criminal cases. Their work is crucial in solving cold cases and identifying unidentified remains.

8. Bloodstain Pattern Analyst: These specialists analyze bloodstain patterns at crime scenes to recreate the events that transpired. Their findings can provide valuable insight into the dynamics of a crime.

9. Forensic Entomologist: Forensic entomologists study insects found at crime scenes to estimate the time of death and provide valuable information for investigations, especially in cases of decomposed remains.

10. Forensic Anthropologist: Forensic anthropologists identify human remains and assess injuries or trauma to help law enforcement agencies in solving cases related to missing persons or unidentified remains.

11. Firearms Examiner: Firearms examiners analyze firearms, bullets, and cartridge cases to determine if they were used in the commission of a crime. They may provide crucial evidence in shooting investigations.

12. Forensic Odontologist: Forensic odontologists use dental records to identify human remains and analyze bite marks in criminal cases, especially in cases of assault or abuse.

13. Expert Witness: Forensic science graduates often serve as expert witnesses in court, providing testimony on their findings and analysis to help juries and judges understand the scientific aspects of a case.

14. Academia and Research: Some graduates choose to pursue advanced degrees and careers in academia, teaching the next generation of forensic scientists and contributing to research in the field.

15. Consultant: Forensic science consultants provide their expertise to law firms, government agencies, and organizations. They offer guidance on forensic evidence, case analysis, and best practices.