Stevenson University

What you'll study

Instruction typically covers a mix of scientific and investigative topics delivered through lectures, laboratory exercises, case studies and applied projects. Core themes include:

• Forensic science fundamentals — principles of evidence handling, crime scene procedures, and the chain of custody.
• Analytical techniques — laboratory-based analysis methods used for biological, chemical, and trace evidence, and interpretation of results.
• Digital and multimedia forensics — basics of recovering and analyzing electronic evidence and understanding its forensic limitations.
• Legal and ethical context — rules of admissibility, expert witness responsibilities, and professional ethics.
• Research methods and statistics — quantitative and qualitative approaches needed to design studies, assess reliability, and critically evaluate forensic methods.
• Capstone or practicum — applied project or internship that integrates technical skills with investigative or prosecutorial contexts.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, criminal justice, forensic science or a closely allied discipline. Admissions often consider undergraduate GPA, relevant laboratory or field experience, and letters of recommendation; some programmes may request a personal statement outlining professional goals. Applicants without a directly related degree may be admitted conditionally after completing prerequisite coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into roles such as forensic laboratory analyst, crime scene investigator, digital forensics examiner, forensic consultant, or positions within law enforcement agencies and public health or regulatory bodies. The programme also prepares students for roles that require expert interpretation of technical evidence in legal cases and for further doctoral or professional study in forensic science or criminal justice.

Scholarships & funding angle

Funding options to explore include institutional scholarships for graduate students, research or teaching assistantships where available, employer-sponsored education agreements for current practitioners, and external scholarships from forensic science and criminal justice organizations. Prospective students should consult the university’s graduate funding office and external professional associations for up-to-date opportunities and eligibility criteria.