Graduate Certificate in Forensics
Introduction
The College of Science offers a graduate Certificate in Forensics to meet the growing needs for trained specialists in the area of forensics. Ideal candidates for this certificate have completed a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have a strong interest in forensics. The certificate is ideal for professionals either currently working in or planning to enter into the fields of law enforcement and forensics. The certificate is especially designed for professionals who are interested in advancing their career goals, but who may not have adequate time available to undertake a graduate degree program, as all classes meet once a week and are offered at 4:30 or 7:20 PM. A background in Chemistry or Biology is useful, but not required, since the program contains both science and non-science tracks.
The 18-credit certificate begins with a set of two core courses designed specifically for this program. Students will then take three courses unique to their track, either forensic science or general forensics, before finishing with a final capstone course that integrates knowledge and skills learned in both tracks. Students completing the Certificate in Forensics will receive the most up-to-date advanced forensic science education available in the region from renowned George Mason faculty and local forensics experts. Completion of the certificate will enhance the careers of those students who are already working in this area, and can also serve as a useful intermediate step towards later enrollment in a Forensic Science M.S. or Ph.D. degree program.
To learn more about the certificate, please select the appropriate link below or contact Dr. William Whildin at wwhildin@gmu.edu.