Expert Faculty
Our expert faculty consists of current and former forensic science professionals who bring real-world experience and offer valuable connections to forensic organizations nationwide.
Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute (FNSSI)
Join Syracuse University’s Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute
Start your journey in forensic science at an R1 research institution with Syracuse University’s Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute. Enroll in one of our undergraduate or graduate programs and develop exceptional scientific skills, ethical practices and the knowledge and ability to become an engaged leader in the field of forensics.
Our mission is to educate and prepare the next generation of highly qualified forensic practitioners, perform innovative scientific research to develop and support emerging forensic science technologies and collaborate with practitioners in government, private industry and academia to promote and advance the fields of forensic science and national security.
Why Choose the Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute?
Comprehensive Curriculum
With over 30 specialized forensic science courses, students gain hands-on experience using cutting-edge tools and technologies.
Diverse Academic Programs
The Forensics Institute offers nine distinct academic programs tailored to various forensic science specialties.
Your Degree at Work
Graduates are prepared for positions in crime laboratories, medical examiners’ offices, private companies and federal agencies. Pursue a career as a:
- Forensic DNA Analyst*
- Forensic Chemist
- Latent Print Examiner
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Medicolegal Death Investigator
- Firearms and Tool Marks Examiner
- Forensic Toxicologist
- Law Enforcement Investigator
*Note: For students interested in forensic DNA analysis, it is important to note that certain courses (at either the undergraduate or graduate level) are required for laboratory positions in the U.S. These include coursework in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and statistics
Find your program fit today!
Media Mentions
Forensics Colleges: "How is DNA Fingerprinting Used to Crack Criminal Cases?" Michael Marciano, professor of practice and director for forensics research
The Trace: "When Your Loved One’s Body Becomes ‘Evidence,’" Maria Pettolina, professor of practice
Scientific American: "How Forensic Breakthroughs Are Still Helping Identify 9/11 Victims Today," Kathleen Corrado, FNSSI executive director
News
(Aug. 13, 2024)
Seeking Justice Through Forensic Science StandardsFederal standards agency recognizes Michael Marciano, professor of practice and director of forensics research, for leadership in field.
(March 1, 2024)
Machine Learning Gives Visibility to Underrepresented AuthorsA&S graduate student Brianna Cardillo develops an algorithm in her computational forensics course to promote books by marginalized authors.
(Sept. 21, 2023)
Through Hands-On Experiences, the Forensic Science Institute is Nurturing the Next Generation of InvestigatorsThe Forensic and National Security Sciences Institute offers three unique courses that prepare students to make an immediate impact in the field of firearms analysis.
(Aug. 22, 2023)
A&S Researchers Explore How Sound Waves Can Address an Ethical Dilemma in Poultry FarmingProfessors James Crill and Steve Dorus have partnered with startup company Soos Technology L.T.D. to explore the mechanisms that allow sound wave energy to alter gene expression in fertilized chicken embryos.
(Aug. 1, 2023)
Forensic Science Institute Partners with Leda Health to Explore Feasibility of Early Evidence Sexual Assault KitsThe self-collection kits would allow survivors of sexual assault to collect their own evidence privately in instances when they don’t have access to a local health care provider.