Master of Science - Forensic Science

The MSc Forensic Science programme is designed to deepen specialist forensic knowledge for graduates in forensic science and to provide graduates from other science disciplines, such as chemistry or pharmaceutical sciences, with the opportunity to acquire specialist forensic skills while building on existing expertise in laboratory analysis and research. The course offers access to a wide range of specialist facilities, including the Forensic Training Facility, forensic laboratories, a specialist imaging suite, insectary, forensic anthropology suite, photography suite, vehicles, clandestine burial site, courtroom, and ballistics laboratory. The teaching team brings extensive industry and research experience both in the UK and internationally, and the programme is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, ensuring high standards of teaching.

The MSc has been specifically designed to support both forensic science graduates and graduates from other analytical science degrees in advancing scientific analysis skills and applying them in a forensic context, developing specialised areas such as entomology, fire analysis, or drug analysis, and undertaking independent research. The course emphasises practical application of scientific knowledge, with students working closely with expert lecturers to conduct research and gain industry insight.

The programme covers a broad range of subjects related to the application, interpretation, and validation of laboratory-based analytical techniques. Key areas include advanced professional and employability skills for forensic scientists, separation science and chromatography, advanced bioanalytical techniques such as biological presumptives, ELISA/EIA, PCR, capillary electrophoresis, and advanced microscopy, as well as advanced analysis of crime scenes and evidence in areas such as fire investigation, entomology, blood pattern analysis, DVI/anthropology, and drug analysis. Additional topics include spectroscopy, structural analysis, research methods, and data interpretation.

Students also undertake an Independent Research Project in a chosen specialism, supported by an academic supervisor. The project aims to develop high-quality, original research suitable for publication, enabling students to deepen knowledge in a specific area of forensic science and gain essential research experience, which provides a strong foundation for progression to PhD study or further research after the programme.