Dr. Ralph Ristenbatt

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Ralph R. Ristenbatt III has over 35 years of experience in the field of forensic science. He began his education at Lebanon Valley College majoring in Chemistry before switching to Biochemistry, graduating in 1987. He pursued his graduate education in forensic science at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where he earned a Master of Science under the supervision of Peter De Forest. His initial career involved working at the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner, where he focused on forensic serology and DNA analysis. Over the years, he became deeply engaged in scientific event reconstruction and led efforts to validate gunshot residue detection methods. He founded and supervised the Forensic Analysis Reconstruction Unit, providing training to law enforcement agencies in areas such as event reconstruction and evidence processing. In 2006, Ristenbatt transitioned to Pennsylvania State University, where he teaches various forensic science courses and leads a consulting firm specializing in forensic analysis. His contributions include providing expert testimony in numerous federal and state courts.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Teaching Professor

2006-01-01 — Present

Pennsylvania State University • University Park, PA

Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in forensic science and supervises students in crime scene investigation and event reconstruction.

Requirements for Pennsylvania State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
Master's degree in related field for PhD Baccalaureate degree from accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample
  • Official Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE scores are highly recommended but not strictly required for Applied Linguistics.