Master's Degree in Forensic Toxicology and Analytical Genetics
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master’s program in forensic toxicology and analytical genetics is ideal for those interested in applying science to criminal investigations and public safety. Graduates often pursue careers as forensic toxicologists, DNA analysts, or crime lab scientists, specializing in areas like drug analysis, genetic profiling, and evidence interpretation.
Program Overview
The Master of Forensic Toxicology and Analytical Genetics degree prepares professionals with an advanced training in focused areas of forensic science while developing workplace skills highly valued by employers in related fields. The program has two areas of concentration: one concentration is focused on Forensic Toxicology/Chemistry and the second on Forensic/Analytical Genetics. Through a common core curriculum, students in both concentrations will have foundational information and a skill set in advanced forensic science, writing, communication, professionalism, ethics, legal perspectives and workplace-specific laboratory skills.
Related Careers
Graduates will be competitive for workforce deployment in the areas of private industry drug testing, private DNA analysis, forensic governmental divisions, and hospital clinical labs.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
An undergraduate bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or a related field of study from an accredited university is preferred. However, students with other bachelor’s degrees or the equivalent from an accredited university will be considered if they are judged to be highly competitive and have completed foundational undergraduate courses in chemistry, biology, or related fields.
No GRE is required for admission to the program.
Required documents for the application include:
- 2-3 letters of recommendation. Provide the names and contact information of individuals who are familiar with your undergraduate and graduate coursework, research, employment, etc.
- A personal statement indicating professional interests, qualifications, and goals for program study and career goals.
- A CV indicating education, any academic honors/accomplishments, research-related experience (publications and presentations), laboratory experience, skills, and relevant work experience.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
Tennessee
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