Master's of Science Degree in Forensic Science

The Master of Science Degree in Forensic Science is a full-time program designed to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century by providing:

• The necessary theoretical and practical background in all areas of criminalistics;

• A meaningful forensic science research experience; and

• The opportunity to develop written and oral communication skills.

The program will also focus on developing leadership skills so that graduates will be prepared to assume positions of authority in forensic science research, administration and public policy.

The Master of Science program in Forensic Science brings together several key faculty from Cedar Crest College who have more than 50 years experience in the field, classroom and laboratory. In addition to this expertise, the faculty has produced numerous publications, presented at professional meetings, and provided courtroom testimonies.

Members of the faculty include Dr. Lawrence Quarino, who spent eleven years as a laboratory supervisor in the Department of Forensic Biology at the New York City Medical Examiner's Office, Dr. Thomas Brettell, a former laboratory director of the New Jersey State Police Forensic Science Laboratory System, and Professor Carol Ritter who is a member of the International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts. These three faculty members are all professionally certified with the American Board of Criminalistics.

Application Process

In order to be considered for admission, a candidate must meet the following criteria:

• A Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited college or university in a natural or forensic science (or equivalent coursework in a relevant field) including the following courses:
  - Two semesters of general (freshman) chemistry and two semesters of organic chemistry
  - Two semesters of calculus (differential and integral preferred)
  - Two semesters of physics - Two semesters of general (freshman) biology

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

• Completion of the GRE General Test (scores must be received by March 1st).

• Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s scientific ability. Students under consideration for admission must successfully interview with members of the forensic science faculty before acceptance to the program. Applications received by January 2nd will be given admissions preference.

How to Apply

We welcome your inquiries and your application. Please call the Center for Lifelong Learning at 610-740-3770 or e-mail lifelong@cedarcrest.edu to request an information packet.

Application

Recommendation Form

Please send completed recommendation forms to:

Center for Lifelong Learning
100 College Dr.
Allentown, PA 18104-6196

Application Checklist

• Application
  
• Official transcript(s) in an institutionally sealed envelope - for work in progress, a final transcript must be submitted at the end of the semester. Transcripts from all institutions must be included even if the credits have been transfered and are included on the transcript of a receiving college or university.
  
• Two sealed envelopes containing recommendations
• GRE Scores

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