Faculty as Active Practitioners

The forensic science profession itself demands that commitment to education. As forensic technologies and best practices continue to evolve, professionals need to stay current in their fields. That reality is reflected in the design of UF's online graduate programs. Our faculty members are active practitioners in forensic disciplines, bringing current casework experience and emerging scientific developments directly into the classroom. Students gain access not only to foundational knowledge but also to the real-world applications and challenges shaping the profession today.

Instructional Associate Professor Joseph Pasternak is an example of how an advanced degree can move careers. He built an extensive career with the State of Montana, serving in multiple roles during 19 years, including as a DNA Supervisor/Technical Leader and DNA Analyst. It was during this time that Pastenak earned his Master’s online while working and balancing his family life. He currently serves as a Global Validation Scientist in Genetic Identity at the Promega Corporation, where he performs and supports large-scale validation efforts to ensure the quality, performance and global compliance of cutting‑edge DNA analysis systems.

"This program really provided me with the knowledge and the advanced degree that I needed to go further with my career,” confirms Pasternak. “I was a DNA analyst at a state lab and it vaulted my career shortly after I received my degree. When I finished my program, I was fully eligible to become a technical leader. It was life-changing for me to have that opportunity."

A Community of Forensic Professionals

One of the most valuable aspects of online graduate education is the opportunity to learn alongside professionals from across the forensic science community. Students bring diverse perspectives, like Amanda Pennington, a forensic DNA analyst. Currently in a laboratory supervisory role, she says earning her Master’s degree from UF played a key role in advancing her career.

Pennington shares, "Saying this program helped me in my day-to-day activities would actually be an understatement. It provided me with a wealth of knowledge in my field, which I have been able to apply in my laboratory. The University of Florida provided so many opportunities to connect with other students, even online. Even though I wasn't on campus, I felt like a Gator, through and through!”

UF’s online program creates a collaborative learning environment where students not only gain knowledge from faculty but also learn from the collective experiences of their peers.

Education Designed for Working Professionals

By joining a top-ranked university and an accredited program with a 25-year legacy of leadership in forensic education, students learn from expert faculty, engage with peers from across the forensic science community and gain practical knowledge.

“The curriculum is rigorous and provides a strong scientific foundation,” affirms Sandy de Bie, a recent alumnus. “The faculty are engaged and the coursework pushes you to think critically and analyze evidence carefully.”

• Forensic Science
• Forensic DNA & Serology
• Forensic Drug Chemistry
• Forensic Toxicology
• Forensic Death Investigation