The UC Davis MS in Forensic Science is a research-focused graduate program that gives you the academic foundation, hands-on research experience and faculty mentorship to succeed as a forensic scientist.
Degree At a Glance
- Apply by February 1 for fall 2025 admission
- 12 classes (36 units) plus Thesis (18 units)
- 54 quarter units
- Full-time: 9+ units/quarter
- Part-time: 5 or less units/quarter
Who is This Program For?
- Current undergraduates in the natural or physical sciences who want to pursue a career in forensic science
- Recent graduates who want a research-focused, in-person program in California, the leader in modern forensic science practices and technology
- Working forensic scientists and analysts and crime scene technicians and investigators who want to earn a master’s degree to advance their career
Curriculum that Aligns with Your Career
The UC Davis Master of Science in Forensic Science Program collaborates with industry professionals across California and our curriculum is directly aligned with employment requirements.
- Learn core scientific concepts such as physical evidence, forensic biology, materials and chemical analysis, toxicology and instrumentation
- Understand professional concepts such as your responsibilities as a forensic scientist, ethics, court testimony, accreditation and the intersection of law and science
- Discover the latest laboratory techniques through a hands-on curriculum that emphasizes publishing your peer-reviewed research
- Gain “real world” experience by investigating mock crime scenes, testifying in moot court and other practical applications of your classroom and lab work
- Specialize in the area that suits your interest - Forensic DNA or Forensic Criminalistics
UC Davis: The Best School for a Career in Forensic Science
- 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
- Professional Expertise - Our in-person, research-focused program teaches you how to maximize the value of the evidence
Curriculum Tailored to Your Interests
We combine coursework, significant lab time, research and practical experience to prepare you for a career in forensic science. The UC Davis Forensic Science Graduate Program lets you specialize in two academic areas:
- Forensic DNA
- Focuses on molecular biology and the methodologies, applications and interpretation of forensic DNA analysis
- Forensic Criminalistics
- Focuses on the methodologies, applications and interpretations of forensic instrumental analysis, trace evidence, drug chemistry, and toxicology
Pie chart demonstrating careers of UC Davis Forensic Science Masters Program graduates.
Our Alumni are Leaders in Forensic Science
Our alumni serve in every California Department of Justice laboratory and at every level in government laboratories across the nation, including the FBI, ATF, AFDIL, and DEA. This network connects you to job opportunities, professional colleagues, and mentors across California and the world.