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Young Forensic Scientists Forum Newsletter - May/June 2003 Marshall
University Forensic Science Program to Graduate 100th Student |
| The Marshall University Forensic Science Program will reach another milestone this spring as it graduates its 100th student from its Master's Degree program. As a first year student, I am proud to be associated with such a terrific program and eager to usher in the graduation of its next hundred students. Established in 1996, Marshall has been at the forefront of forensic science education and has graduated students now employed in law, medicine, academia, and forensic laboratories at all levels of government and private industry. Set in rural West Virginia, Marshall attracts students from throughout the country and around the world — this year's graduating class includes graduates from the Phillipines and Iceland — and offers students a unique and well-rounded education in virtually all facets of forensic science and on the most progressive technology available. The academic program, housed at West Virginia's CODIS Laboratory, offers the Master of Science Degree in Forensic Science with coursework in DNA Technology, Toxicology and Analytical Chemistry, Comparison Sciences, Crime Scene Investigation, Microscopy, Cybercrime, Bioterrorism, and more. Accepting only 15 students per year, each student can expect personalized attention and support from faculty and staff devoted not only to the advancement of forensic science, but also to the academic and career success of each and every graduate. Marshall's program is unique in its approach to scientific learning. Supplementing classroom learning, students gain practical experience on high-tech equipment including the latest Genetic Analyzers, the GC/MS, HPLC, FTIR, state-of-the-art Polarized Light Microscopes, and Scanning Electron Microscopes. The program is constantly acquiring new technology and making it available to students. In the next year, Marshall will attain Real-Time PCR and robotic technology to enhance its CODIS facility, research labs, and student labs. Guest lecturers are a regular addition to the curriculum and greatly enhance classroom learning. In the past year alone, officials from the DEA, FBI, State Crime Labs, and Private Industry have shared their expertise with the program. Students also complete a summer internship and have the opportunity to participate in research projects sponsored by the forensic science faculty. Graduates of Marshall's program are well-prepared to become leaders in the field of forensic science. Alumni speak its many resources, the support received from the faculty, and of the undeniable role Marshall has played in the acquiring of their dream jobs. I have had a great experience at Marshall and recommend it to anyone seeking a career in forensics. Further information may be found online at: http://forensics.marshall.edu. |
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© 2003 Young Forensic Scientists Forum / American Academy of Forensic Sciences |