MFS in Forensic Molecular Biology

The Master of Forensic Sciences in Forensic Molecular Biology (FMB) program prepares students for careers in crime laboratories as DNA analysts and technical leaders. Through this FEPAC-accredited curriculum, students develop the analytical and research skills necessary to interpret, evaluate and understand biological evidence within a forensic context.

Working with the same technology currently used in operational crime laboratories, students gain hands-on experience with chemical, physical, immunological and microscopic techniques, as well as advanced molecular biology methods such as DNA extraction, amplification, capillary electrophoresis, probabilistic genotyping and next-generation sequencing. 

Beyond the structured coursework, students participate in independent and collaborative research that applies emerging technologies to real-world forensic challenges. These projects make use of cutting-edge tools such as massively parallel sequencing and advanced bioinformatics pipelines, exposing students to innovations that are transforming the field. Through this research experience, students gain the expertise and adaptability needed to become the next generation of forensic molecular biologists equipped to lead in a rapidly evolving scientific landscape. 

Coursework integrates both theoretical and practical learning, with opportunities to identify body fluids at reconstructed crime scenes and participate in mock court proceedings. These immersive experiences equip students with the skills to properly collect, preserve and analyze evidence, and to effectively serve as expert witnesses in courtroom settings.

 

Forensic Sciences Graduate Info Session: January 15

Join us online for an information session discussing the field of forensic sciences and the GW Master of Forensic Sciences, Master of Science in Crime Scene Investigation and Graduate Certificate in Forensic Sciences programs.

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Program Objectives

Graduates develop the knowledge and skills needed to work in a crime forensic laboratory. Specifically, graduates will:

• Obtain hands-on physical evidence analysis experience, such as the design, development and validation of forensic DNA analysis
• Improve critical thinking skills to evaluate forensic evidence and scientific literature
• Develop presentation and writing skills for research, report writing and courtroom testimony
• Understand the breadth of forensic science disciplines and their application to criminal justice
• Comprehend the legal and ethical principles of forensic science
   

Focus Areas

Students choose from required and elective courses in five subject areas:

Chemical, Physical, Immunological and Microscopic Methods

Students combine disciplines to examine and identify body fluid stains at a crime scene and in the laboratory.

Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Advanced Methods in Forensic Molecular Biology

Students learn methods of DNA extraction, quantitation, and amplification (of short tandem repeat markers and mitochondrial DNA), fragment analysis, DNA sequencing, data interpretation, mixture deconvolution and skills to evaluate population genetics.

Forensic Physical Sciences

Students combine classic investigative examination techniques (such as fingerprinting, firearm and toolmark examination and document examination) with leading approaches used to examine trace evidence (such as glass, soil, paint, hairs and fibers and forensic drug analysis). Students learn the principles of forensic pathology, crime scene investigation and forensic science laboratory management.

Principles of Criminal Law and Procedure

Students learn to prepare and present evidence, how to qualify and prepare expert witnesses and how to testify as an expert witness or present findings in a legal setting.

Laboratory Classes

Students participate in mock cases to establish professional protocols necessary to receive evidence, maintain the chain of custody, analyze the evidence, calculate the statistical significance of a match, issue a report and return the evidence intact. Mock cases include methodology to identify and determine the nature of body fluids, extract, quantify and type the DNA, interpret the data and present it accurately.

Application Requirements

In addition to the Columbian College’s graduate admissions requirements, applicants must meet two requirements to apply for the MFS in Forensic Molecular Biology program:

• Applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences from an accredited college or university.
• Applicant must show 9 credits of completed coursework in certain areas before beginning the program. These courses must be taken as part of the undergraduate curriculum or before registering for graduate classes:
  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Molecular biology
  • Upon completion of the program, in order to meet FBI standards for a forensic DNA technical leader, students will be required to take two courses: Forensic Statistics and Population Genetics.
     

Complete Application Requirements

Course Requirements