About

The University of Florida’s online Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Forensic Medicine is the first fully-online advanced degree program in forensic medicine in the United States. Offered through the College of Medicine and the Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine via the William R. Maples Center for Forensic Medicine, the online M.S. in Forensic Medicine provides worldwide access to a high-quality UF education. Students and professionals now have the opportunity to develop their skills and apply medical knowledge to the investigation of crimes – all from anywhere in the world. The program offers both thesis and non-thesis options and can be completed in 2-3 years.

Forensic scientist taking photos at a crime scene

Why Forensic Medicine?

Forensic medicine is the application of medical knowledge to the investigation of crime, particularly in establishing the causes of injury or death. Our program is unique because it emphasizes the practical exercise of forensic medicine to the forensic sciences and medicolegal death investigation rather than on academic or research tracks alone. Job growth projections for forensic technicians are very encouraging – a roughly 20 percent greater rate than average – due to the increasing importance of careful evidence collection in legal outcomes.

Who is this program for?

Our fully-online program allows both traditional academic students and currently working professionals in forensics, criminal justice professions, law enforcement, and other related fields the opportunity to further their education and professional development. Among the careers open to graduates are:

  • Medical examiners
  • Forensic pathologist
  • Pathologist assistant
  • Forensic autopsy technician
  • Forensic scientist
  • Digital forensics analysts

What will students learn?

  • Basic application of forensic medicine to the process of medicolegal death investigation
  • Improved crime scene processing skills, including the recognition, documentation, collection, and analysis of physical evidence associated with the episode of death
  • Improved professional report writing for use in legal investigations
  • Enhanced ability to provide expert witness testimony in the courtroom