Forensic Science


Master of Science in Criminal Justice

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The 10-month, 30-credit Master of Science in Criminal Justice- Forensic Science specialization has been designed to incorporate courses that ensure the student who successfully completes the program has demonstrated his/her academic strengths in advanced forensic sciences including biology, toxicology and criminal profiling.  This specialization includes the concepts of leadership, public policy and decision-making skills that contribute to being a successful manager or administrator of a forensic science section within a criminal justice organization including police, courts and corrections. Upon graduation, you should be able to:

  • Analyze criminological theory within the context of current research findings to identify ways to improve decision-making or to implement new practices or procedures.
  • Evaluate criminal justice policies to critique both intended and unintended consequences and the ethical principles in current criminal justice management and practices.
  • Create researchable questions and apply appropriate statistical methods to improve evidence-based decision-making.
  • Distinguish unique management problems and challenges in the field of criminal justice, offering support for administrative policy-making.

About This Program

This program prepares students for career paths and duties as:

  • Senior Forensic Analyst
  • Supervisory Crime Scene Investigator
  • Forensic Lab Manager
  • Forensic Lab Director/Administrator
  • Crime Scene Consultant
  • Criminal Investigations and Forensics Program Manager

Course Format

Salem offers accelerated undergraduate and graduate programs of study with continuous enrollment via distance education or on ground at our Salem, West Virginia campus. Courses are delivered in a monthly format (4-weeks) and completed on ground, online, or through a blended approach that uses both delivery methods. Online courses are structured to work within the constraints of full-time employment, allowing you to earn your degree with minimum disruption to your busy schedule. Traditional on ground programs of study are available for campus residents and commuter students.

Course Numbers/Names

The MSCJ program includes the following core courses:

  • CJU505 – Criminological Theory
  • CJU510 – Research Methods in Criminal Justice
  • CJU515 – Criminal Justice Policy Analysis
  • CJU520 – Ethics in Criminal Justice Management
  • CJU535 – Management in Criminal Justice Organizations
  • CJU598 – Research Project in Criminal Justice
  • CJU599 – Capstone

In addition to the core courses, students in the Forensic Science specialization will take:

  • CJU570 – Forensic Toxicology
  • CJU580 – Forensic Biology
  • CJU585 – Criminal Profiling

Admission Requirements

Admission to Salem is open to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, or ability/disability. Anyone wishing to attend Salem can obtain the necessary application from the Office of Admissions or apply here. The completed application should be submitted to the Office of Admissions at the earliest possible date. The University admits students on a rolling, monthly start basis. Acceptance is within the discretion of Salem University; some programs have additional admissions requirements.

If you would like to find out more about this program, click the link below to request more information!
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