MSci Forensic Science

In years one to three of the course, you will have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as digital forensics, analytical chemistry, microscopy, toxicology, and forensic and molecular genetics. You will also study the core aspects within our forensic science courses which includes crime scene investigation, evidence examination and courtroom skills.

Following successful completion of a common first year curriculum covering criminalistics, forensic chemistry and forensic biology, students choose to study modules that follow either an “Analytical” or a “Biology” Forensic Science pathway depending upon their personal preference during their second and subsequent third year.

The second year of your forensic science will enhance your practical skills and theoretical knowledge through forensic evidence and crime scene examination. You will develop your skills in applying analytical techniques and your understanding of either analytical chemistry or biological science within forensic investigation depending upon the pathway chosen.

Teaching

Modules in years one to three are taught linearly across three academic terms, meaning that you will usually receive a lecture in each module every week, allowing you to build up your knowledge throughout the year. This will also be supplemented by practical work in our Crime Scene Training Facility or in our laboratories, and especially in year one, small group tutorials to offer you extra academic study support.

In years two and three, we encourage a greater level of independent directed study, and there is greater time spent developing your analytical skills in our laboratories.

In year four, modules are taught through the block-mode approach, meaning study is more intensive, and is focussed upon one module at one time. This allows you to conduct longer, more involved practicals and research-style experiments to gain greater exposure to these higher level skills. The research project is usually taken over the summer in year four.