I completed my MSc in Forensic Science while working full time in a hospital clinical lab. The professors and TAs were all very helpful any time I had a question. Emails were responded to promptly, usually within 24 hrs. Coursework was graded promptly, again usually within 24 hours of the submission deadlines. The instructors gave valuable feedback on assignments when something was missed or misunderstood. The communication between students was excellent and a valuable part of the whole experience. I obtained my undergrad degree in the traditional classroom setting and my Master's degree via UF's online program. I believe the communication between instructors and students was just as good or maybe even better in the online program. The coursework was very challenging...this is not a fluff degree, you must work hard and study often to earn a decent grade. The lack of hands-on laboratory experience was compensated by providing detailed photos and links to online tutorials and such to gain a better understanding of laboratory processes. Most of the core courses in the program have some overlap with the other core courses, so material is reinforced in that manner. Also, many of the elective courses reinforce the basic principles as applied to the specific discipline being studied.
I had some serious medical issues during my last two terms of study and the instructors were very accommodating in allowing me to make up work that I missed while in the hospital. The degree of concern and compassion of the instructors was refreshing.
I would recommend this program to anyone interested in the forensic science field.
Name: E. Colquhoun
Post On: August 26, 2009
Grade: A
I have been employed in the field of forensics since 1995. This program allowed me to obtain an advanced degree while still maintaining my work responsibilities and home; quitting my job and moving elsewhere for a degree was not an option.
This program compliments nicely for those who are already working in the field. My expereince with this program is consistent with my experiences in a traditional education setting: some of the course work was more of a challenge or more enjoyable than others; the other students and instructors had an impact on the mood or tempo of the course; and finally, what one obtained from the material was what one was willing to invest.
My questions or concerns about assignments, material, etc., were always promptly addressed.
I would highly recommend this program.
Name: Kevin
Post On: August 24, 2009
Grade: A
As a lab rat in a forensic toxicology laboratory, I felt it was my duty to go back to school to seek a higher degree. I was referred to this program by a highly skill forensic toxicology and a CEO of a nationally known forensic toxicology laboratory. So far, this program has not disappointed. Thanks UFL! I'm halfway to a master's degree in Forensic Toxicology.
Name: M. Mclellen
Post On: August 23, 2009
Grade: A
As a person who was already working in forensics with a B.S. in chemistry , I can say without any reservation this was a excellent program. It is part of the university of Florida, that is where I did my finals ,and graduated from and what my degree states. I had the same professor as on campus students with the same books, test and homework. The main difference was I read the lectures instead of listening to them. I graduated with a double major in forensic chemistry and toxicology. My professor were very helpful, and the staff was great with any issues that came up. I am proud to say this program made me want to proclaim...it great to be a gator.
Name: Baugh
Post On: August 21, 2009
Grade: A
As a graduate of the Forensic Toxicology program (part of the veterinary program at U of F) I found the program to be totally high quality. The professors were all readily available and have extensive knowledge. This was my first experience with the U of F and I now I consider myself a full fledged gator even though I live miles away. At 67 years of age I hold 3 BS degrees, 3 MS degrees, a PhD and I am working on a 2nd PhD ... therefore I would say I am familiar with education. My professional life has been and is in the fields of environmental health, safety, nursing, and psychology. The forensic program I undertook I rate at the top of my education. The program is professional. You are expected to be a student that can work independently and not be spoon fed the answers. Because of the aspect that this is a distance program and you don't have a fellow student sitting next to you, you must be willing to recognize when you need assistance and be prepare to ask for help. When I was in the program I had a world of fellow students that were all very willing to assist with problems or questions ... this was also true of every professor or instructor. The textbooks are the standard books used in the profession. The knowledge I gained from my U of F program I am using daily in my position as a Environmental Health & Safety Coordinator and also as a PhD student in Veterinary Science (Not at the U of F only because of distance and research interest). I routinely advise students to contact the U of F about the forensic program. This is not a give me program ... be prepared to take your education into your own hands and grow into a lifetime learner.
