Program Overview

MSc Forensic Bioscience

About this course

LJMU's Forensic Bioscience MSc is ideal for forensic science practitioners and science graduates with its state-of-the-art facilities and research-informed curriculum.

• Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences
• Enrol on this course which is taught by leading experts in the field and informed by research and excellent industry links
• Enjoy access to state-of-the-art laboratories, crime scene facilities and a moot room
• Learn from forensic anthropologists, biologists, crime scene and fire investigation specialists and leading in-house academics
• Benefit from a local, national or international work placement
• Develop transferrable skills in legal matters and research methods and specialise in your chosen area

Forensic bioscience involves the understanding and application of many diverse techniques. This programme aims to enhance your depth and breadth of knowledge, understanding, and practical skills through a stimulating and challenging curriculum.

Unique in the North West, the course is led by experts in the field and focuses on the biological aspects of forensics. Key topics include decomposition, entomology, microbiology, histology and DNA analysis. You will also study forensic medicine and issues such as post mortem interval determination and identification. You will explore the criminal justice system as a setting in which a forensic scientist might work and discover how to apply appropriate techniques to complex forensic cases, critically evaluating current crime scene techniques.

The course attracts graduates from disciplines including biology, zoology, biochemistry and forensic science, as well as those working in DNA Analysis, forensic biology, anthropology and the environmental sector. Indeed, anyone interested in the molecular and biological aspects of forensics will appreciate this programme.

You will explore emerging and specialist disciplines as well as extending your understanding of current and biological techniques and practice. Developing analytical, critical and problem-solving skills, you will become a creative problem solver. You will also enhance your independent research skills, going on to enjoy excellent career development opportunities in forensic and analytical biosciences.

Course modules

• Core modules
  • Forensic Bioscience (20 credits)
  • Forensic Research Methods (20 credits)
  • Bioanalytical Techniques (20 credits)
  • Law and Court Room Skills (20 credits)
• Optional modules
  • Trace Evidence Analysis (20 credits)
  • Taphonomy and Trauma Analysis (20 credits)
  • Research Project (60 credits)
  • Placement Project (60 credits)
  • Wildlife Forensic Science (20 credits)

Professional accreditation

MSc Forensic Bioscience is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Your Learning Experience

• Teaching hours: There will be some week-to-week differences in the exact time and location of the scheduled teaching for each module, depending on whether the sessions involve lectures, practicals or other forms of teaching.
• Teaching methods: There is a 50/50 split between theoretical and practical content and you will learn via a mix of seminars, workshops, case studies, external visits, lectures, practical sessions and e-learning.
• Applied learning: With regular lectures from professional practitioners, the curriculum is directly informed by the latest developments and entirely relevant to the needs of today's employers.

Career paths

• Further your career prospects
• LJMU has an excellent employability record with 94% (HESA 2022) of our postgraduates in work or further study fifteen months after graduation.
• The Forensic Bioscience department has an impressive range of national and international industry contacts and works closely with local police forces.
• Numerous career paths are available including forensic practice, working in biology-based industries, the NHS, trading standards and teaching and lecturing in schools, colleges and universities.
• Further possibilities include roles working with diagnostic products, proficiency testing, quality assurance, reference standards and genomics.
• Alternatively, you may choose to further your research career, concentrating on specific areas of forensic science, such as DNA analysis or entomology.

Tuition fees and funding

• Home: £10,705
• International: £18,250
• Scholarships: LJMU provides a variety of postgraduate scholarships to support international students.
• Deposit: All students must pay a £5,000 deposit before they can receive their CAS letter.
• Tuition Fee Payment Plan: After paying their £5,000 deposit, students have the option to pay their fees in full or in three equal instalments minus any internal scholarships and discounts.

Entry requirements

• Qualification requirements: a minimum 2:2 honours degree in a relevant science, including forensic science
• International requirements: IELTS requirements 6.5 (minimum of 5.5 in each component)
• RPL: RPL is accepted on this course

How to apply

• To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU online application form.
• You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.