Forensic Analysis MSc

About the course

This course focuses on developing your knowledge and skills in the analytic techniques you will need to pursue or further your career in operational forensic casework. The forensic industry is highly competitive, requiring skilled professionals in diverse fields including pathology, toxicology, drug analysis, fire debris analysis, wildlife crime, microbial forensics, forensic genetics and document analysis. By following this Masters course you will develop the essential knowledge, skills and attributes to meet the needs of the industry.

Developing the underpinning science and the professional skills needed to translate your knowledge into practice, you will be well-equipped to enter a career in areas related to civil and criminal investigation, as well as in wider science-based industries or research-based positions. Your opportunities could include forensic consultancies, government agencies, industry and research and development.

With already well-established laboratory facilities, we are opening a new building dedicated to STEM subjects and developing our facilities to include virtual bio-lab simulation training to complement your in-class learning.

Why choose this course?

This course develops your theoretical knowledge and understanding and practical experience, as well as your skills in analysing, evaluating and communicating your findings, making you well-place to pursue a career in a range of science-based industries.

Choose MSc Forensic Analysis and:

• Learn from staff with experience in operational forensic casework. Develop your practical skills through hands-on experience in our exceptional laboratory facilities, including a Scenes of Crime Laboratory.
• Study a course informed by the latest research, ensuring you are aware of current and emerging developments in this specialist field.
• Gain a qualification, the skills and the knowledge to meet the wide-ranging needs of the forensic and other science-based industries, making you well-placed to enter a career in a number of specialised fields.
• Develop strong research skills for form the basis of those required for study at PhD level. Benefit from the University’s strong links to external stakeholders in the forensic industry and related organisations and practice sectors.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is integral in all units to check that you have met the threshold standards expected of all graduates. They are also linked to learning, designed to develop key subject specific and transferable skills for future employment. The requirements of each assessment will be detailed in a formal assessment brief document and discussed in teaching sessions. Units that include an end of unit examination will include a formative exam experience to help you prepare. The assessment tasks will include: End of unit examination (unseen written examinations); Poster presentations; Webinars; Formal court statements and presentations; Laboratory notebook and laboratory reports; Literature review; Research proposal; Oral presentation.