UNIVERSITY OF WARSAW · POLAND
Master's Program in Forensic Biology & Forensic Genetics
Master's · Taught in pl
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
pl
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsFull-time Master's program
- InterdisciplinaryInvolving 5 faculties
- Practical focusIncludes lab work and field exercises
- Expert insightsLectures from university and external specialists
This Master's program in Forensic Biology and Forensic Genetics is designed for graduates with bachelor's degrees in biology or related fields (such as biochemistry, bioengineering, environmental protection, nanostructures), as well as graduates of second-cycle studies (e.g., medical fields). It is particularly suited for those interested in the rapidly developing field of DNA analysis within criminology. The program focuses on the identification, collection, and examination of various traces and physical evidence, along with their analysis in specialized laboratories, requiring academic-level knowledge. This program is unique in Poland for offering a master's level in criminology that broadly integrates theoretical and practical aspects of criminology and molecular biology. It provides a comprehensive curriculum covering the full spectrum of biological sciences applied in forensic practice, as well as forensic tactics and strategy, laying a scientific foundation for further development in forensic biology. The interdisciplinary nature of the studies is facilitated by the Center for Forensic Science at the University of Warsaw, involving five university faculties: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, and Law and Administration. This ensures students benefit from the expertise of lecturers from diverse scientific backgrounds. Additionally, classes are conducted by external experts (e.g., from police laboratories) and at non-university institutions (e.g., forensic medicine at the Medical University of Warsaw), providing practical skills applicable to future professional careers.
Curriculum
The program covers a full spectrum of biological sciences applied in forensic practice, forensic tactics, and strategy. It includes methodology for forensic research, technical and laboratory aspects of these studies, as well as legal and psychological issues relevant to investigations and court proceedings.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Master's Program in Forensic Biology & Forensic Genetics?
- To be eligible, you need a Bachelor's degree in biology or related fields such as biochemistry, bioengineering, environmental protection, nanostructures, or a second-cycle degree like in medical fields. The program is conducted in Polish.
- What is the duration of the Master's program?
- This is a full-time Master's program that lasts for 2 years.
- What is the language of instruction for this program?
- The program is conducted in Polish.
- How do I apply for the program and what are the deadlines?
- Applications are submitted online through the Internet Recruitment of Candidates (IRK) system. Registration opens on June 9, 2026, and closes on July 9, 2026. Classes commence in early October 2026.
- What are the tuition fees and are there any other costs?
- An application fee of 100 PLN is required. Detailed tuition fees for specific academic years are available in PDF documents, but specific amounts for international students are not detailed here. No specific estimates for living costs are provided.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
- Graduates will possess scientific knowledge and skills for professional work in various forensic science applications, particularly in DNA analysis within criminology, and will be equipped for roles in forensic science.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeIn biology or related fields (biochemistry, bioengineering, environmental protection, nanostructures) or other second-cycle degrees (e.g., medical).
The program is conducted in Polish.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on tuition fees is available for academic years 2020/2021 through 2026/2027. Specific amounts for international students are not detailed here.
Tuition (home)Information on tuition fees is available for academic years 2020/2021 through 2026/2027. Specific amounts for home students are not detailed here.
LivingNo specific estimates for living costs are provided.
Application fee: 100 PLN. Detailed tuition fees can be found in the downloaded PDF documents for each academic year.
How to apply
1. Create an IRK AccountSet up an account on the IRK system (irk.uw.edu.pl) where you will upload required documents and sign up for the program.
2. Pay Application FeePay the application fee of 100 PLN using the individual bank account number generated in the IRK system.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete your online application in the IRK system.
4. First Stage Qualification (Score Calculation)Your secondary school results will be evaluated. A minimum of 50 points is required to proceed.
5. Second Stage Qualification (Online Exam)If you meet the first stage criteria, you will be invited to an online entrance exam. The exam will be based on the book ‘The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion’ by Jonathan Haidt.
6. Receive ResultsResults will be announced on your IRK account.
7. Submit Original DocumentsIf admitted, submit the hard copies of your required documents within the specified deadlines.
Accreditation
The teaching standards align with the Regulation of the Minister of National Education and Sport of 18 April 2002.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Master's Program in Forensic Biology & Forensic Genetics?
+
To be eligible, you need a Bachelor's degree in biology or related fields such as biochemistry, bioengineering, environmental protection, nanostructures, or a second-cycle degree like in medical fields. The program is conducted in Polish.
What is the duration of the Master's program?
+
This is a full-time Master's program that lasts for 2 years.
What is the language of instruction for this program?
+
The program is conducted in Polish.
How do I apply for the program and what are the deadlines?
+
Applications are submitted online through the Internet Recruitment of Candidates (IRK) system. Registration opens on June 9, 2026, and closes on July 9, 2026. Classes commence in early October 2026.
What are the tuition fees and are there any other costs?
+
An application fee of 100 PLN is required. Detailed tuition fees for specific academic years are available in PDF documents, but specific amounts for international students are not detailed here. No specific estimates for living costs are provided.
What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates will possess scientific knowledge and skills for professional work in various forensic science applications, particularly in DNA analysis within criminology, and will be equipped for roles in forensic science.