MS Forensic Science at University of North Dakota

Programme overview

Be prepared for a variety of career opportunities with a master’s in Forensic Science, a field that combines science with the legal system to solve forensic cases. UND’s comprehensive master’s program blends forensic biology, forensic chemistry and advanced investigative techniques. You’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to confidently navigate modern forensic work by solving complex cases and bringing clarity to challenging forensic science situations.

Duration: 2 years (42 credit hours) | Study mode: full-time | Intake: Fall (February 15) | Location: Grand Forks, ND, United States

What you will study

Additionally, please indicate the faculty member you would most like to work with and describe the research you are interested in. Include a second choice if your first preference is unavailable. Faculty research interests are listed in the Master of Science in Forensic Science Graduate Handbook. Required courses include FS 520 Advanced Seminar in Forensic Sciences; FS 530 Quality Assurance and Ethical Conduct in Forensic Science; FS 540 Law and Forensic Sciences; FS 550 Crime Scene Investigation and Analysis of Pattern Evidence; FS 570 Biological Evidence and Serology; FS 580 Criminalistics: Biology.

Career pathways

A master’s degree in Forensic Science can significantly enhance your career prospects, provide specialized knowledge and open doors to advanced certifications and higher-paying roles. Roles include DNA analyst, Evidence analyst, Crime scene technician, Crime laboratory analyst, Medical examiner.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

In addition to the admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies, the following requirements must be met by all applicants: A bachelor's degree in natural science, forensic science, or equivalent from an accredited college or university. A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in all undergraduate coursework. Satisfy the School of Graduate Studies' English Language Proficiency requirements as published in the graduate catalog. Pre-requisite Coursework: General Chemistry or Fundamentals of Chemistry (including laboratories) Organic Chemistry (including laboratories) Biology (including laboratories) Physics (including laboratories) Calculus | Applied Calculus Statistics | Bioinformatics Additional Requirements Additional Requirements Examples Personal statement (1-2 pages) detailing your interest in forensic science, relevant experiences, and career goals. Writing sample in a peer-reviewed publication where the applicant was the lead author (of, at most, three authors) or a 1-2-page essay demonstrating analytical and writing skills on any forensic science related topic.

Domestic applicants: USD 13,441 a year (2026-27). North Dakota resident rate. On-campus tuition for 2026/2027 as shown in the programme's tuition table (fall and spring semesters, rate band 'Arts & Science'); excludes mandatory student fees, housing and books. The same table lists Minnesota residents $17 Source

International applicants: USD 26,882 a year (2026-27). International student rate. On-campus tuition for 2026/2027 as shown in the programme's tuition table (fall and spring semesters, rate band 'Arts & Science'); excludes mandatory student fees, housing and books. Source

Terms run Fall (August-December), Spring (January-May) and Summer (May-August).

Graduate applications go through the UND admissions application with a $35 non-refundable fee (no waivers); each graduate program sets its own deadline, listed in the Program Finder. Three academic or professional references and a statement of goals are required.

International graduate applicants: Fall May 1, Spring Sept. 1, Summer Feb. 1, unless the program sets a specific deadline. Application fee $35.

Apply through the official page: https://und.edu/admissions/graduate/apply.html

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