Forensic Science (Taught)

Forensic Science is the specialist application of science to criminal and civil law, as governed by the legal standards of admissible evidence and criminal procedure.

This Master’s programme provides practical, analytical and interpretative skills in forensic chemistry and forensic biology. It enables you to identify and quantify unknown materials related to a crime, to be responsible for initial investigation and prioritisation.

Critical knowledge of analytical chemistry, genetics and biological techniques are core to the course.

On this programme, you will

• develop a detailed understanding of crime scene management information synthesis

• develop skills in presumptive testing, enhancement, development and creation of new evidence

• learn the importance of appreciating the role a forensic scientist plays within a wider police investigation

• train to be an expert witness in an investigation or court setting

• complete substantial research and writing assignments requiring advanced academic and persuasive writing skills

You will join a group of postgraduate students from across the world, benefit from a wide range of specialist facilities, equipment and collections, and learn from internationally recognised, research-active academic staff.

You can use the course to obtain broad expertise in the field, or to specialise in areas such as: forensic biology, forensic genetics and associated analytical sciences.

Course Modules

Advanced Forensic Biology,
Advanced Forensic Genetics,
Law for Expert Witnesses,
Dissertation,
Professional Development,
Separation science and mass spectrometry,
Advanced Methods in Laboratory Forensics

The assessment strategy is designed to support the learning outcomes of each module. The programme uses a wide range of assessment methods, including:

• coursework (problem solving, expert witness statements, technical reports, forensic strategy documents, research design, extended writing, continued professional development)
• open book exams
• oral presentations and oral evidence to mock crown prosecution service