Admissions

Applications are open for the September 2025 intake.

Online MScFS Information Session

Wednesday, November 6th, starting at 8pm Eastern Time.
In this session, we will give an overview of the program and answer key questions, including:

• Am I eligible to apply to the MSc. Forensic Science program if I don’t have a background in forensic science?
• How do I prepare a strong application?
• What can I expect during the application interview?
• What courses are offered in the program?
• Where can I complete my summer placement?
• What types of careers can I pursue after graduation?

Don’t miss out on this chance to get all your questions answered!
Register here: https://trentu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0scumvqjIoHdBfU8qZPjyXZVynW6i40WD6

Consideration for entry into the M.Sc.F.S. program are as follow:

Requirements for Course-Based stream

• B.Sc. honours degree
• Minimum B+ (77%) or equivalent in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years (last ten full credits)
• Experience in Forensic Science or Undergraduate courses relating to Forensic Science, or willing to take such courses, usually before official admission
• Some applicants may be provided with a conditional acceptance and will be required to successfully complete a qualifying course*, Fundamentals in Forensic Science, prior to admission.
• A statement of interest detailing the applicant's interest and or experience in forensic science is required. The purpose of this statement of interest is intended to compile additional information for selection among highly qualified applicants and to allow applicants with practical experience, but without the minimum average, to provide support for their entry into the program. The statement should not exceed 500 words (~ 1 page).
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters

Requirements for Major Research Paper stream

We encourage all prospective students to thoroughly review the current Major Research Paper (MRP) opportunities available. This will help you understand the scope and expectations of the program, and align your interests with the available research projects.

• B.Sc. honours degree
• Minimum B+ (77%) or equivalent in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years (last ten full credits)
• Experience in Forensic Science or Undergraduate courses relating to Forensic Science, or willing to take such courses, usually before official admission
• Some applicants may be provided with a conditional acceptance and will be required to successfully complete a qualifying course*, Fundamentals in Forensic Science, prior to admission.
• An example of scholarly/research writing. Submit a sample of your writing as a PDF (20 pages or less). Since there is a greater emphasis on performing and communicating research in this stream, this document is intended to display the applicant's ability to communicate scientific concepts clearly. Suitable choices include: an undergraduate essay, a research report, a chapter from a thesis, or a published article.
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• If you wish to be considered for both the MRP and the course-based programs, please indicate this in your personal statement. Clearly express your interest and explain how your academic and professional goals align with both streams. This will help the admissions committee understand your preferences and evaluate your application accordingly.

Application Procedures for 2025 September Intake

3 Step Application Process:

1. Apply to our program through OUAC and submit the required documents by the deadline.
2. The MScFS intake committee will review the applications and invite students for an interview.
3. Only selected applicants will be invited for an interview (via video conferencing). The interview does not guarantee admission, but will be used to further assess student suitability for the MScFS program.

Application Deadlines:

Deadline: November 15, 2024. Interview: January 2025
Late Application: February 1, 2025. *The admission committee will review applications only if there are spots left

• Review the Admissions Process and Required Documents at the School of Graduate Studies site.
• Create an Account/Profile and complete your application with the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC).  You can save your work at this stage and return to complete at a later time.
• Required application documents should be uploaded through the myTrent portal. Applicants receive access to the portal once they receive their acknowledgement email and claim their myTrent account.   
• Applicants with a limited science background relevant to forensic science may receive a conditional acceptance and will be required to successfully complete a qualifying course in the summer term  prior to admission (fee will apply)
• Should you have questions regarding the application submission process please contact the School of Graduate Studies.