What are the application deadlines for FNSSI graduate programs?

Our priority application dates are February 15 for Summer and Fall admission and October 15 for Spring admission.

These are not hard deadlines, as we do review applications on a rolling basis; however, applying by our priority deadline will ensure that space in our programs is available when you apply and that you are considered for partial scholarships. We offer a limited number of scholarships.

What are the application requirements for FNSSI graduate programs?

Complete the Syracuse University graduate school application form and required supplemental materials:

• Transcript
• Resume
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation: At least two recommenders should be academic (e.g. academic instructor, research mentor, internship supervisor). You’ll need to provide each recommender’s full name, title, organization, email address.

International students must also demonstrate sufficient funding for at least the first year of graduate study and provide English language proficiency scores. More information about these requirements is available here.

What are the GPA or GRE cutoffs?

At this time, the GRE scores are optional.

We do not have cutoffs for either the GPA or GRE score, as our application review process is holistic. For example, if you submit a low GPA (e.g. below 3.0) or GRE score (e.g. below 150), we will look for your other strengths that might compensate. For example, we also consider courses, research and/or internship experiences, and improvement of grades over time.

Does it make sense to apply for more than one forensic science graduate program?

No, there is no need to apply separately to multiple programs, thereby paying the application fee twice. If you are not sure which M.S. program to apply for, just make your best choice or email us at forensics@syr.edu if you need advice! If you decide later that you want to switch to a different program, that is easy to do.

If you want to earn an M.S. and a Certificate of Advanced Study, please apply only to the M.S. Once enrolled, it’s easy to add the certificate to your program of study.

How can I schedule a visit?

Contact the forensic science office at forensics@syr.edu to schedule a visit.

What makes Syracuse University and the FNSSI unique, compared to other schools that offer forensics graduate programs?

• Our interdisciplinary approach. The Forensic Science and National Security Sciences Institute (FNSSI) incorporates a wide range of disciplines, including medicine, sciences, social sciences, humanities, law and other professional fields.
• Our connections. We offer specialized courses developed and taught by experts in the field, a growing number of institutional partnerships, and internship opportunities for students. We work in partnership with the Onondaga County Center for Forensic Sciences and numerous other local and federal forensic organizations to ensure our students have strong learning and networking opportunities.
• Our faculty. Courses are taught by professionals active in their respective fields and who conduct research at the FNSSI. You will explore current practices and theories under the instruction of people who actively research and apply them.
• Our flexibility. Through one-on-one advising, you will design a custom curriculum that is appropriate for your specific career goals.
• Our reputation. The FNSSI employs and trains forensic scientists, conducts conducting cutting-edge research, provides valuable insights to the field, and forges connections among leading forensics researchers and practitioners.

Is there a part-time or on online graduate program?

Graduate students may enroll full-time or part-time in FNSSI programs.

All FNSSI programs are offered on campus in a residential format, and we do not offer online enrollment options.

What are the program requirements?

Visit our individual program pages for current program requirements:

• M.S. in Forensic Science
• M.S. in Forensic Science Advanced Laboratory (FEPAC accredited)
• M.S. in Biomedical Forensic Science
• M.S. in Digital Forensics
• M.S. in Medicolegal Death Investigation

How long does it take to complete an FNSSI graduate program?

All of our M.S. degree options require a 36-credit course of study.

A full-time graduate student typically takes 9-12 credit hours per semester and completes the program in 3-4 semesters. Part-time course loads of 3-6 credit hours are also possible.

How will I access research and internship opportunities?

Students learn about and participate in research projects by speaking directly with FNSSI faculty members whose projects align with their interests.

Internships are possible locally and beyond, at federal, state, and local levels. See where our students have recently interned here.

How does national security science fit into your graduate programs?

While forensic scientists typically focus on past criminal activity, national security experts take a more proactive approach to identify future threats. Nonetheless, the two fields employ many of the same technologies and methods, follow the same statutory regulations, and are held to similar quality standards.

Some FNSSI research projects are related to biological and chemical threats and involve national security collaborators, allowing students to see first-hand the connection between these fields. National security is also woven into our course requirements; nearly all of our forensics classes incorporate elements of national security, and some classes have a special emphasis on national security. If you wish to pursue a career in national security studies, we’ll recommend additional political science and law courses, as well asIntelligence to your program of study. Applied Science for National Security and Intelligence .

What housing options are there?

You’ll find several off-campus options at Syracuse University Off-Campus Housing Marketplace and orangehousing.com. You may also choose to live on campus on a space-available basis at Syracuse University’s South Campus Apartments.

We are happy to assist if you have questions about housing arrangements or neighborhoods near the university.

What is there to do in Syracuse?

Lots! Syracuse has much to offer students, including an active bar and restaurant scene, frequent public events, and even on-campus venues like The InnComplete and the JMA Wireless Dome. We recommend this website, which will help as you picture yourself living here.

How will I connect with my graduate student peers? What is the campus culture like?

We encourage students to connect with their peers in forensic science, but also with the broader Syracuse University community. We know that friendships, social life, and community support are important to student success. You’ll find connections through:

• The Syracuse University Forensic Science Student Organization, which is open to all graduate students in the forensics program. This organization is student-led with elections by peers and offers community service, team building, and educational events.
• Multiple student organizations, which are open to graduate students across programs.
• The Intercultural Collective, which is available to all students and particularly helpful for students seeking affinity groups.
• Campus events and student activities, which happen year-round.

Still looking for answers? We’re here to help. Send us an email at forensics@syr.edu.