Forensic Science and Criminal Justice, M.S.
Program overview
The field of Forensic Science and Criminal Justice is rapidly growing, and the proposed program is distinctive for its focus on the justice system’s increasing reliance on scientific evidence and on ongoing reform efforts. With an interdisciplinary design and strong emphasis on practical skills, the program will prepare graduates for careers in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, judicial systems, research institutions, and academia, meeting the rising demand for professionals who can bridge law enforcement, science, and policy.
Offered full-time (with a part-time option for working professionals) and totaling 37–40 credits, the program aims to enhance the College’s profile, attract international students, and strengthen the justice system by training skilled practitioners. The program anticipates initial lab-related costs and periodic curriculum updates to keep pace with evolving technologies. It will meet the requirements of the national higher education regulatory body. SFC already sustains a strong pipeline: approximately 5% of undergraduates major in Criminal Justice, indicating internal demand for an advanced pathway. In addition, the program’s STEM designation increases its appeal to international candidates pursuing science-driven justice careers.
Global trends point to sustained demand for advanced forensic analysis as crime, cybercrime, and terrorism evolve in scope and sophistication. Rapid advances in digital forensics, DNA technologies, and criminal data analytics are reshaping practice, while deeper collaboration between forensic scientists and the criminal justice system—from laboratories to courts—is accelerating innovation and impact.
Our program is designed to leverage these shifts by preparing graduates who can operate at the intersection of science, technology, and law. The demand for forensic experts is rising nationally, regionally, and internationally. A persistent shortage of qualified professionals in government and private laboratories is creating opportunities across law enforcement, homeland security, forensic accounting, and criminal investigations.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Advanced Forensic Biology and DNA Analysis
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
Crime Scene Investigation and Reconstruction
Criminal Law and Procedure
Criminological Theories and Research Methods
Ethics in Forensic Science and Criminal Justice
ELECTIVES
Digital and Cyber Forensics
Forensic Psychology
Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation
Terrorism and Homeland Security Studies
Human Rights and Criminal Justice Policy
Capstone project in partnership with forensic labs, law enforcement, or judiciary
Supervised Practicum
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PLO 1: Synthesize best practices and knowledge of Criminal Justice organization literature.
PLO 2: Apply solutions to leadership challenges in the justice organization context.
PLO 3: Evaluate theoretical and applied research in the context of Criminal Justice Organizations
PLO 4: Integrate forensic science methods and legal standards to the design of evidence-based interventions and policies for criminal justice organizations.
PLO 5: Communicate complex forensic and organizational findings clearly to diverse stakeholders—ensuring accuracy, ethical integrity, and legal admissibility.
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
Coupled with the projected 11–13% annual growth rate in global forensic science services, these trends underscore the urgent need for our program. Moreover, the increased collaboration between the forensic science and criminal justice sectors is a promising trend that our program aims to leverage. In alignment with these trends, SFC maintains partnerships with the District Attorney’s Office and the NYPD and utilizes their facilities—including a digital forensics lab and designated NYPD learning spaces—as applied learning labs for this program.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
🔬 Forensic Science & Crime Laboratories
You will assist in analyzing biological, chemical, or physical evidence used in criminal investigations within forensic laboratories.
🕵️ Crime Scene Investigation
You will collect, document, and preserve evidence at crime scenes while supporting investigative teams and forensic specialists.
👮 Law Enforcement & Investigations
You will support law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations, evidence processing, and public safety initiatives.
💻 Digital & Computer Forensics
You will investigate cybercrime and analyze digital evidence such as computer files, networks, and electronic devices.
⚖️ Courts & Legal Support
You will assist legal professionals by organizing evidence, preparing case documentation, and supporting the judicial process.
🔒 Corrections & Public Safety
You will work in correctional institutions, rehabilitation programs, or public safety organizations focused on crime prevention and offender management.
🎓 Graduate & Professional Study
You will build a strong foundation for advanced study in forensic science, criminal justice, criminology, cybersecurity, forensic psychology, or law.