Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any prerequisites required?
While the admissions committee typically looks for a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0, applicants with a lower GPA may still be given full consideration based on the strength of their academic coursework, relevant professional experience and/or accomplishments, and strong references. The committee evaluates each applicant's academic preparedness by considering undergraduate and graduate coursework and overall academic performance. Professional experience is assessed through the presentation of a resume or curriculum vitae.
Applicants are expected to have completed a college-level introductory science course, with a grade of "C" or higher, prior to acceptance into the program.
Are GRE scores required?
No - the Forensic Pattern Analysis and Biological Forensics graduate programs do not accept or review GRE scores as a part of the admission process. In addition to completing an online application and application fee, official transcripts, essay, two academic/professional reference letters and a resume are required.
Is work experience required?
Not for admission into either program.
What distinguishes the Forensic Pattern Analysis program from other Forensic programs?
Traditional forensic science programs often offer only a few courses, or portions of courses, in the comparative sciences. This requires graduates to complete additional, potentially expensive, training in latent fingerprints, firearms and toolmarks, and other related disciplines. The Master of Science in Forensic Pattern Analysis at Loyola is focused on latent fingerprint development, recovery, and analysis, and firearms and toolmarks examination, while offering elective courses in a variety of other disciplines. Loyola’s curriculum has been developed in consultation with forensic practitioners at several local, state, and federal agencies. The goal is that students will graduate with the advantage of having already received much of the course and lab work required by such organizations, thus increasing the potential for hire, and reducing the time it takes to be trained.
What type of background do I need to apply?
There is no mandatory background required for the program, although a BS in one of the natural sciences can be advantageous in preparation of the lab work and analysis. Interest and motivation for the program are keys to success, and we encourage students from diverse backgrounds to apply for the program. The faculty and staff are committed to the education of students, centered around the belief that all people—across all ages, cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, and abilities—should be afforded the opportunity to serve in the growing world of forensic science.
How many credits do I need to complete the program?
Students in the Forensic Pattern Analysis program complete between 39 and 42 credits, depending on the elective courses taken. Students in the Biological Forensics program complete between 38 and 41 credits, depending on the elective courses taken.
How long to complete the program part-time and full-time?
Full time students will be able to complete the program in 2 years. Part time students have up to 5 years to complete the program.
Are there any courses offered online?
There are some lecture-based courses that are offered online. However, the majority of the courses are designed for hands-on training through laboratory and/or field experiences and are offered in-person at the Evergreen Campus.
How many days a week and times are the courses offered?
Courses are offered during both daytime and evening hours, with many meeting only once per week. Due to the nature of field work, some courses include morning lectures with afternoon labs. Weekend courses are not offered at this time.
What kind of jobs am I qualified for after completing the program?
Graduates will be competitive candidates ready to enter, or advance within, a variety of challenging and evolving careers, including public and private forensic laboratories, crime scene investigation, law enforcement, academia, bio health industries, research fields, military, civil service, and several others.
Do you offer financial aid or other funding for the program?
There are loans, as well as a limited number of partial merit-based scholarships and grants available to applicants each start term. Please see the website for additional financial aid information.
Is it possible to complete an internship during the summer in order to meet the capstone requirement?
Yes. Internships can be completed at any time during the program. Students will work with the Internship Coordinator to ensure the internship opportunity that they are seeking meets the requirements of the program.
Have more questions? Contact us!
Graduate Admissions
graduate@loyola.edu
410-617-5020
Theresa Allen
Director of Program Operations
Forensic Science Graduate Programs
teallen@loyola.edu
410-617-2642

Contact Us
Graduate Admissionsgraduate@loyola.edu
410-617-5020
Theresa Allen
Director of Program Operations
Forensic Science Graduate Programs
teallen@loyola.edu
410-617-2642