One of only 13 accredited master's programs in forensic science by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the University of California at Davis Forensic Science Graduate Program selects only students from the top third of their undergraduate class with a 3.0 GPA or higher. All applicants with a history of substance abuse, disruptive behavior, or domestic violence charges will likely not be considered based on the realities of the job market and employer's expectations. The program offers two tracks - the DNA track and the criminalistics track. With a variety of required courses for both tracks, the program also offers electives such as arson investigation, forensic statistics and homicide crime scene investigation.
At Duquesne University, the forensics department does not focus completely on the science aspect of the career but also delves into the law side. The Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law track starts with students just leaving high school and takes them through an intensive five-year course which also allows for students to gain their bachelor's degree in biochemistry or biology. The program is housed in the Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law which was founded in 2000 by Dr. Cyril H. Wecht, a former coroner.
Three concentrations are offered in Michigan State University's forensic program. The forensic chemistry program focuses on methods for investigating certain crimes, such as gunshots and drugs crimes, while also teaching students how to detect substances on a variety of surfaces, including glass and fibers. The forensic anthropology program focuses on detecting human trauma both in victims, criminals and third-party victims as well as skeletal analysis in the injured or deceased. The third concentration is forensic biology, which primarily takes place in a laboratory setting where students research and study both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA analysis and serology.
With small class sizes and an eye toward teaching students the realities of their chosen career, the Virginia Commonwealth University's forensic science program offers classes in the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors' accredited Virginia Department of Forensic Science Lab. Granting degrees since 1978, this program offers courses taught by both academics and professionals from a variety of backgrounds. Some of the 400 students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science program can eventually apply to work their Master of Science in the program.