COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Forensic Science at University of New Haven requires 42 graduate credits and provides comprehensive training in forensic laboratory science, criminalistics, evidence analysis, forensic biology, and courtroom procedures. The 33-credit required core curriculum combines advanced scientific coursework, laboratory instruction, and independent research to prepare students for professional forensic science careers. Students complete Advanced Criminalistics I and II along with their corresponding laboratory courses, which develop expertise in evidence analysis, laboratory procedures, and forensic examination techniques. Courses such as Physical Analysis in Forensic Science emphasize instrumental and analytical methods used in modern forensic laboratories, while Forensic DNA Analysis and its laboratory component focus on genetic profiling, DNA interpretation, and biological evidence examination. Students also complete Survey of Forensic Science, which introduces major forensic disciplines, and Forensic Expert Testimony, which develops courtroom presentation and professional communication skills for legal proceedings. A significant feature of the program is the mandatory thesis sequence, Thesis I with Seminar and Thesis II, requiring students to conduct publication-quality independent research under faculty supervision. This research component strengthens analytical reasoning, scientific writing, and investigative problem-solving skills while preparing students for advanced professional or doctoral opportunities. In addition to the core courses, students select three elective courses from specialized forensic areas such as forensic scene investigation, wildlife forensics, drug chemistry and identification, forensic microscopy, forensic toxicology, forensic genetic genealogy, fingerprint analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis, firearm evidence analysis, and animal cruelty investigations. These electives allow students to tailor the program to specific career interests within forensic science and criminal investigations. The curriculum emphasizes practical laboratory experience, evidence interpretation, ethical standards, and scientific accuracy, enabling students to identify and analyze physical and biological evidence using modern forensic technologies and methodologies. Graduates are prepared for careers in forensic laboratories, medical examiner offices, law enforcement agencies, DNA laboratories, toxicology labs, firearm and trace evidence units, wildlife crime investigations, and private forensic consulting, while also gaining a strong foundation for doctoral study and scientific research careers.