Format

The Doctor of Forensic Sciences degree will provide applied graduate education and training at the doctoral-level in forensic sciences (60 credit hours). Given the current conditions within our society, the need for a professional, non-research oriented doctoral program for forensic sciences practitioners has never been greater. The professional doctoral degree is designed specifically for forensic science practitioners to improve their knowledgebase, tactics, techniques, and procedures.

Curriculum

Doctor of Forensic Sciences: 60 total credit hours

• Program Core: 15 hours
• Electives: 45 hours
• TOTAL: 60 hours*

*A minimum of 30 OSU credit hours.

After admission, students may request review of credit hours from their master’s degree for use on the DFS plan of study. Credits are reviewed by the School of Forensic Sciences and acceptance depends on age, grade and content.

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Admissions

• Completed online application Admission review begins February 1st for Fall and October 1st for Spring.
• Master’s degree transcript and bachelor’s degree transcript. Include a transcript for any institution where you earned graduate level credit. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the admission application and official transcripts would be required after admission.
• 3.0 GPA or higher
• Three letters of recommendation preferably from professors and/or supervisors familiar with your academic ability, work ethic, and skills. (Applicants only need to provide their recommenders’ email addresses. Recommenders will be emailed a link from which to upload their letter.)
• Resume/CV – Students must be employed/have prior professional experience in Forensic Sciences or a closely related field.
• Statement of purpose describing your personal career goals and areas of interest in Forensic Sciences. Suggested length is about 2-3 paragraph.
• Skills, equipment and access for online course participation includes the capacity for independent learning, proficiency in Windows, Internet, e-mail and basic applications; multimedia computer and high-speed Internet access are necessary.
• International applicants: coursework in the School of Forensic Sciences is online. That said, you will be able to remain in your home country.
• $50.00 application fee (domestic)

Cost

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Forensic Sciences program will complete 60 credit hours during the course of their studies. Cost estimates below are calculated based on 2024-2025 rates. Additional cost details and OSU’s tuition and fee estimator are available on the Bursar website.

This is only an estimate of cost based on currently approved rates. Cost estimates do not include textbooks, exams, or course expenses, nor do they factor in individual transfer credits or scholarship information. Cost will vary if not enrolled in a fully online degree program. Active-duty military and veterans may qualify for resident tuition rate. Tuition and fees are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Full disclaimer.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

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