A Master's Program in Forensic Science and Law
The Master of Science in Forensic Science and Law is a graduate level program that integrates forensic science techniques and principles with the legal system. You will explore the collection, analysis, and interpretation of physical evidence while navigating its legal and ethical dimensions. Through this program, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the critical role forensic science plays within it. As a graduate, you will be prepared for impactful careers in forensic science, law enforcement, crime laboratories, and beyond. Many graduates of this program will further expand their horizons by pursuing advanced degrees in forensic science, law, or related fields.
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Real Voices. Real Experiences.
“All of our faculty are very involved and show a genuine interest in us. They’ll come up and ask how my research is going because they truly care about how I’m doing—both as a researcher and as a student.”
“I really liked how much hard science was involved, and I think that at Duquesne, they provide such a strong foundation of knowledge that it truly enhances your research skills. The faculty care about helping us do our best so we can achieve our best.”
"I really appreciate how Duquesne advocates students to participate in summer research, which was how I was able to land internships at JPL. I continually use the skills I cultivated in the Forensic Science and Law program throughout my doctoral studies.”
Gain Lab & Court Experience This Summer!
Experience what it’s like to solve real-world cases in the lab and the courtroom at Duquesne’s 22nd Annual Forensic Science and Law Workshop. From June 22–25, high school juniors and seniors will gain hands-on experience through mock crime scenes, lab analyses and expert-led sessions, all on Duquesne’s campus. Scholarships are available for students with financial need!
Discover. Research. Succeed.
Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law
The Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law is a premier educational and research institution that offers a variety of programs for students and professionals in the forensic science and legal communities. Named after Dr. Cyril Wecht, a renowned forensic pathologist, lawyer, and educator, the institute offers programs in forensic science, as well as a variety of professional development courses and workshops for forensic scientists, attorneys, and other legal professionals.
Summer Undergraduate Research Program
The Summer Undergraduate Research Program (URP) is a 10-week summer experience where you'll participate in community engagement projects and ethics education, present your research findings at an on-campus symposium and connect with faculty, industry professionals and fellow researchers.
Center for Career Development
Duquesne's Center for Career Development supports you at every stage of your professional journey, helping you explore majors and career paths, connect with employers, and build essential job search and professional skills through personalized guidance, programs, and events. The center remains a lifelong resource, offering ongoing support to help you grow and succeed beyond graduation.
Director and Associate Professor, Forensic Science and Law Teaching Assistant Professor, Forensic Science and Law Teaching Assistant Professor, Forensic Science and Law Program Administrator for the Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law,
Forensic Science and LawFaculty and Staff
Pamela Marshall, Ph.D.
Lyndsie Ferrara, Ph.D.
Matthew Regentin, M.S., IAAI CFI
Benjamin Wecht, M.A.
Mission, Goals and Objectives
Our Misson
As a student in our five-year program you will receive the best forensic science education possible. Our mission is to provide you with a high quality education in the natural and forensic sciences, and to advance scientific knowledge and improve society through research and education, thereby contributing to the mission of Duquesne University.
Program Goals
You will learn laboratory-based natural biology and biochemistry as well as forensic scientific and legal foundations. By the time you enter the workplace you will be prepared to start your career with an excellent background and knowledge base in the forensic sciences. You will also have a comprehensive knowledge of the applicable principles of the law as it pertains to forensic science.
Program Objectives
As a student in our program, you will: Have an appreciation of professional and ethical concepts early in your college education, gain an understanding of the nexus that forensic science has with the law, have a comprehensive science and math educational background in order to be successful in upper level courses, be able to apply scientific principles to forensic problems in a laboratory setting, experience the broad diverse nature of the forensic community by participating in local, regional and national professional organizations and/or meetings, have an appreciation of the advances and changes in the forensic sciences and be able to adapt to those changes and have skills and a level of knowledge that will allow you to be a significant contributor to furthering the science of forensics upon graduation.
Accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission.Accreditation