Master of Science in Forensic Medicine
Certificate Program of Advanced Graduate Study in Forensic Medicine
DO/MS Dual Degree (5 year track)
MS Biomedical Sciences with concentration in Forensic Biology
Pathway Program in Forensic Medicine
Forensic Medicine field pictures
MS in Forensic Medicine - Program Description
The Master of Science Program is designed to provide working professionals an opportunity to continue their life long learning with advanced knowledge and increased professional skills. The curriculum consists of weekend didactic lectures and small group interactions combined with ongoing online course work. The program will provide a solid foundation in the theory, concepts, and principles of forensic medicine, the medico-legal and technical aspects of death scene investigations, and clinical pathology skills. The emerging demands, role and responsibilities of medico-legal investigations by Forensic Scientists will be addressed. This program also prepares each graduate for certification as a death investigator.
Curriculum
The MS in Forensic Medicine program has three core foundation courses including:
(1) Pathology in Forensic Medicine
(2) Forensic Medicine I
(3) Forensic Medicine II
The program requires core foundation courses totalling 16 credits in the first year, online courses in the second year, culminating in a clinical residency within the area of specialty (8 credit hours). A total of 40 credit hours is required to finish the Master of Science degree. No thesis is required. Students may be able to obtain advanced credit for previous clinical experience forensic-related practice areas.
The format of the program consists of Friday, Saturday and Sunday (one weekend per month for the first academic year) didactic courses and online-based courses comprise the second year. Weekend didactic courses include formal lectures, labs and demonstrations. Instruction and learning are facilitated using formal lecture formats, group discussions, assigned reading topics, web-based research, online discussion, and course examinations. PCOM core faculty and adjunct faculty will present lectures on assigned weekends. Student attendance in weekend courses and online participation is mandatory. All students receive individual curriculum advisement upon acceptance into the program.
MS in Forensic Medicine - Admission Requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree in a life science discipline from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- GRE, MCAT are optional
- One letter of reference from a recent professor or immediate supervisor
- One page narrative explaining interest in forensic medicine
- Current professional, state or federal license, certificate or registration document (if applicable)
Who should apply?
PAs, NPs, Nurses, EMT-Paramedics, Criminal Investigators with medical or science background, Coroners, DOs and MDs
Frequently Asked Questions about the Graduate Programs in Forensic Medicine
Program Directors
Giuseppe Screnci, MS, PA-C (Director)
Gregory McDonald, DO (Medical Director)
How long will it take to complete the program?
The Master of Science Program in Forensic Medicine is a part time program that we estimate will take most student 24 to 30 months to complete. The Certificate Program of Advanced Graduate Studies in Forensic Medicine can be completed in 12 months.
How do I get an application?
An application may be requested from the Office of Admissions by e-mailing admissions@pcom.edu or by calling 215-871-6700 (800-999-6998 if out of Pennsylvania).
Can I apply online?
Yes. Click here.
When is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted for each term on a rolling basis. Completed applications should arrive in admissions one month prior to starting the programs. Pathway applicants start early May and finish early August; MS/MS Biomedical Sciences with a concentration in Forensic Biology starts late August; Combined degree MS/DO and Certificate of Graduate Study (CAGS) starts late October.
How are applicants selected?
Motivational factors, experience, education, maturity and the recommendations are important variables in the selection process. All applicants that meet the prescribed admission requirements and have submitted all required credentials will be considered. Age, sex, race, creed, color, natural origin, religion, political beliefs, or disability are never considered for admission.
For further information, please contact:
Kari Szentesy, Assistant Director of Admissions
Graduate Studies
PCOM Department of Physician Assistant Studies
4170 City Avenue, Evans Hall, Admissions Office
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Phone: (215) 871-6700
Fax: (215) 871-6719
Email: admissions@pcom.edu
