GW Columbian College of Arts & Sciences - Forensic Sciences (OLD)
GW Columbian College of Arts & Sciences
Forensic Sciences Graduate Degrees
Forensic science is a multifaceted and evolving field that can not only help apprehend criminals, but also identify the missing and even help reunite displaced refugee families. With job opportunities in both the public and private sectors, the forensic sciences can provide a meaningful career in a field that values continuous learning and professional development.
Why GW?
Learn From the Best
The GW Department of Forensic Science is one of the oldest and most prestigious programs in the country. Our faculty are experts in the classroom—and in the field.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Our state-of-the-art laboratories are equipped with the latest forensic instrumentation including a variety of mass spectrometers and microscopes.
Advance Your Career
Our Washington, D.C., location puts students in the heart of the U.S. national security hub where they have access to internships and job opportunities in federal crime labs and other investigative agencies.
Our Programs
MFS in Forensic Chemistry
Accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), this Master of Forensic Science (MFS) program trains students to be lab analysts in forensic drug chemistry and to analyze trace evidence, including hair and fibers, glass and soil, ignitable liquids and explosive residues.
MFS in Forensic Molecular Biology
Students in this FEPAC-accredited Master of Forensic Sciences program are prepared to work in crime laboratories as DNA analysts and technical leaders. They learn chemical, physical, immunological and microscopic methods, as well as the theoretical and practical aspects of methods such as DNA extraction and data interpretation.
MS in Crime Scene Investigation
Students in the Master of Science program learn the scientific skills essential to investigative work. Designed for investigators, detectives, lawyers, special agents, crime scene technicians, medicolegal death investigators and aspiring forensic investigators, our graduates are ready for careers involving homicide investigation, forensic pathology, crime scene photography, trace evidence analysis, examination of questioned documents and more.
Graduate Certificate in Forensic Investigation
Ideal for working forensic sciences professionals who want to enhance their credentials and advance their careers, this graduate certificate program explores topics including forensic pathology, firearms and tool mark identification, forensic photography and medicolegal death investigation. Gainful employment information for this program can be viewed at go.gwu.edu/ficertge.
"The GW teachers weren’t just academics; they were speaking from life experience. They talked about the stresses they faced, the mistakes they made and what really goes on in the forensic world each day."
Adrienne Borges
Forensic Molecular Biology, MFS '06