Master of Forensic Science in Forensic Molecular Biology

The Master of Forensic Sciences in Forensic Molecular Biology is accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) and prepares students to work in crime laboratories as DNA analysts and as technical leaders. Students are encouraged to take advantage of internship opportunities in federal, state, and local government and private forensic DNA laboratories in the area. Most Forensic Molecular Biology graduates go on to work as DNA analysts in crime labs across the country and abroad.

The core courses focus on:

  • Training in chemical, physical, immunological, and microscopic methods: Used to examine and identify body fluid stains at a crime scene
  • Theoretical and practical aspects of advanced methods in forensic molecular biology: DNA extraction, quantitation, amplification of STR markers, and mitochondrial DNA, data interpretation, and population genetics
  • Forensic physical sciences: Fingerprints, firearm and tool mark examinations, document examinations, and examinations of trace evidence, such as glass, soil, paint, hairs, and fibers, crime scene investigations, operation and functioning of the forensic science laboratory
  • Principles of criminal law and procedure: Preparation and presentation of evidence, qualifications and preparation of expert witnesses, testifying as an expert witness, and methods of legal research
  • Laboratory classes: Students will participate in mock cases. They will receive evidence; maintain the chain of custody; analyze the evidence to identify and determine the nature of body fluids; extract, quantify, and type the DNA; interpret the data; calculate the statistical significance of a match; issue a report; and return the evidence.

Prerequisites: A bachelor's degree in the biological sciences from an accredited college or university. Students must meet the FBI standards for a forensic DNA technical leader, having had 12 credits of course work either as an undergraduate or graduate student in the following areas before coming to GW: genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology/molecular genetics, statistics and/or population genetics. The department requires a course in population genetics (FORS 6228). These courses may be taken as part of the undergraduate curriculum or as part of the 36 credit hours of approved course work.

Required: The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. The program of studies consists of 36 credit hours of approved course work. All candidates are required to pass a written Master's Comprehensive Examination.

Required Courses (18 credits)

Recommended Electives

  • FORS 6202 Instrumental Analysis (for students interested in working in the state of California)
  • FORS 6206 Trace Evidence Analysis
  • FORS 6207 Photography in the Forensic Sciences
  • FORS 6295 Research (1-3 credits)

*Remaining credits will be chosen in consultation with the departmental advisor.

Equipping Future Crime Solvers

The Forensic Molecular Biology Laboratory is 1100 square feet and includes an autoclave, PCR hood, gel-electrophoresis equipment, digital photography equipment, and water purification system in addition to PC and Macintosh computers.

Solving History's Mysteries

It was a simple enough question: Was the fragment of hair and skin from an animal or a human? But for Walter Rowe, chair of the Department of Forensic Sciences, the answer would be an important one, adding valuable information to the scientific effort to determine when outlaw Jesse James was killed and where he had been buried.

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