The UC Davis MS in Forensic Science is a research-focused graduate program that gives you the academic foundation, hands-on experience and faculty mentorship to succeed as a forensic scientist.
Our diverse faculty are top academics and leading professionals in the field. The UC Davis Master of Science Program in Forensic Science gives you:
- Choice – Select the track - Forensic Criminalistics or Forensic DNA – that matches your interest
- Flexibility - Our full and part-time options work with your needs and schedule
- Engaged Faculty - Your faculty advisor will guide and help you publish the research that can launch your career
- Professional Connections - Join an influential national alumni network that drives career opportunity
- Practical Experience - Our in-person, research-focused program teaches you how to maximize the value of the evidence
Degree At a Glance
- Fall 2025 Final Application Due Date: 6/1/2025
- # of Classes: 12 classes (36 units) plus Thesis (18 units)
- # of Units: 54 quarter units
- Full-time: 12 units/quarter
- Part-time: 5 or less units/quarter
Only Forensic Science Masters Program in the UC system
Only research-focused Masters in Forensic Science program in CA
UC Davis Alumni are Leading Forensic Scientists
Our alumni serve in every California Department of Justice laboratory and federal law enforcement agency, including:
- FBI
- ATF
- Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFDIL)
- DEA
Our alumni work in a variety of roles at every level of the industry:
- Forensic Scientist
- Forensic Analyst
- Crime Scene Technician
- Forensic Investigator
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Forensic Technician
- DNA Analyst/Technician
- Forensic Specialist
- Criminalist
- Forensic Drug Analyst
- Forensic Biologist
- Digital Forensics Examiner
- Medical Examiner
- Forensics Toxicologist
- Forensic Anthropologist
