The course builds on scientific knowledge gained at undergraduate level and extends your understanding into specialist areas. You will gain knowledge and scientific skills that are directly applicable to the field of forensic science. This course creates prospects of employment in forensic science laboratories as well as in other analytical science labs.

A high level of practical laboratory experience develops competency and professionalism, together with team working, dexterity, and numeracy. Academic knowledge and intellectual curiosity are promoted throughout, driving engaged students to achieve at their highest level. This Masters course involves a unique combination of forensic chemistry and forensic biology. It covers subjects such as trace evidence, toxicology and DNA analysis.

We will continue to offer our new students a range of mock casework and research projects. This will challenge your investigative and research skills and encourage growth in expertise as a forensic scientist. You will undertake a crime scene assessment; examine, analyse, and interpret evidence; produce a court report, and present an oral testimony in a mock court. You will additionally pursue a three-month research project in a specialist area in forensic science. These will shape you as a forensic scientist and build your confidence as a valuable professional. 

Your research will be supervised by the most appropriate of our inspirational staff, most of whom have extensive experience in practice. They’ve been involved in high profile cases such as the Stephen Lawrence, Joanna Yeates, Suffolk strangler and Jigsaw murder cases.

Our facilities are exceptional and include a dedicated crime scene house to enable you to examine simulated crime scenes.

The course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, which enhances its credibility and currency among potential employers.

The focus on practical laboratory work, combined with the mix of group work, independent learning and professional practice, will help ensure that you develop skills that are transferable to a range of careers and disciplines.

Forensic science has gained a high profile through TV dramas and, in the years ahead, the sector is likely to be further transformed by technological advances. With an MSc Forensic Science you will be well-placed to take up a fascinating and rewarding role in forensic science laboratories.

What’s more, by developing the attributes of a Masters student, including the ability to solve complex problems, think critically, and work effectively with others and on your own, you will enhance your employability in all sectors of the analytical science industry.

You will also be well equipped to pursue further studies at PhD level.