Overview

The Forensic Science postgraduate degree at George Mason University provides students with the advanced scientific knowledge required to solve complex crimes and support the justice system. This rigorous academic programme bridges the gap between theoretical science and practical investigative application in various legal contexts.

Why Forensic Science at George Mason University?

The university is situated in Northern Virginia within the Washington DC Metro area, offering unparalleled proximity to numerous federal, state, and local crime laboratories. This strategic location grants students unique access to forensic experts and highly competitive internship opportunities within prestigious investigative and intelligence agencies.

Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasises creativity in problem-solving and the effective use of primary scientific literature. The programme culminates in a capstone experience where learners synthesise diverse skills to solve real-world forensic problems, ensuring they are prepared for the demands of professional practice.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 41124 per year
National fee: USD 41124 per year
Local fee: USD 18060 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum offers specialised pathways including Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Biology Analysis, Forensic Chemistry Analysis, and Forensic/Biometric Identity Analysis. Modules may include:

Crime Scene Investigation
Forensic Biology Analysis
Forensic Chemistry Analysis
Biometric Identity Analysis
Scientific Communication
Research Methods
Forensic Science Capstone

Careers with Forensic Science

Graduates are prepared for rewarding careers within federal, state, and local laboratories, as well as investigative or intelligence agencies. The programme also supports professionals already working in the field who seek to optimise their career advancement and move into senior analytical or leadership roles.

Common career paths include becoming a crime scene investigator, forensic biology laboratory analyst, or forensic chemistry specialist. Additionally, the specialised training in biometric identity analysis prepares students for modern roles as identity intelligence analysts within private companies or government organisations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Basic Crime Analysis

Advanced Crime Scene Analysis

Law and Forensic Science

Trace and Physical Evidence Concepts

Forensics Seminar

Forensic Research Project

Physical Evidence Laboratory

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Forensic Science View 101 other Masters in Forensic Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

In addition to fulfilling Mason's admission requirements for graduate study, applicants must provide:

Three letters of recommendation from academic references or references in the industry or government who are familiar with the applicant's academic and/or professional accomplishments.
Resume
Detailed goal statement to include why you are interested in coming into Mason's Forensic Science Master's program, career goals, and professional aspirations, and proposed area of interest for your final research project.
Two copies of official transcripts from each institution of higher education attended.
A Virginia Domicile Classification Form.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

41124 USD / year

≈ 41124 USD / year
Out-of-State

41124 USD / year

≈ 41124 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18060 USD / year

≈ 18060 USD / year

Living costs

Fairfax

United States

1330 - 2300 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Forensic Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Fairfax

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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