Forensic Science MSc

Program Overview

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Forensic Science

Overview

Forensic Science is the specialist application of science to criminal and civil law. 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. Throughout, this programme will consider quality management systems in laboratory forensic science, including technique validation and approval, avoidance of contamination, and the effect of cognitive bias in the interpretation of results. Using both oral and written reports to communicate effectively with a non-specialist audience.

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

On this programme, you’ll:

• develop skills in presumptive testing and confirmative testing, enhancement, development and interpretation of trace evidence
• learn the importance of appreciating the role a forensic scientist plays within the crime scene to court process
• train to be an expert witness in an investigation or court setting
• develop a detailed understanding of crime scene management information synthesis, including the role of investigative versus evidential potential
• complete substantial research and writing assignments requiring advanced academic and persuasive writing skills

You'll 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.

Entry Requirements

• 2:2 or above in a relevant discipline from the sciences (e.g. chemistry, biology, archaeological sciences, forensic anthropology, forensic sciences, etc).
• Other relevant qualifications and past experience will also be considered.
• English language requirements:
  • IELTS: 6.0 or the equivalent, with no sub-test less than 5.5 will be required on entry to the programme.

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The learning and teaching strategy takes into consideration the programme and module learning outcomes, the nature of the subject, and the need for you to take responsibility for your own learning as part of this advanced taught programme.

The thematic modules are delivered in a combination of:

• formal lectures
• workshops
• extensive practical instruction

You'll progress through a spiral curriculum, with each teaching/assessment block developing and building on your prior learning.

You'll draw upon your underlying knowledge and understanding in the Dissertation - a substantial piece of original, practical-based research, ultimately assessed for its publishable merit.

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 exam
• oral presentations and oral evidence Mock Court

Assessment elements are structured in a way that allows you to benefit from formative learning prior to summative assessment.

Assessments are designed to demonstrate your relevant knowledge, understanding and professional skills in principal approaches to the application of scientific investigation and analysis techniques in gathering, preserving and evaluating evidence, so that it is suitable for presentation in courts of law.

Your communication skills are tested in both written and oral form in several modules.

Elements of group work are part of specialist modules.

Fees, Finance and Scholarships

Tuition Fee

• Home: £9,698
• International: £25,389

Additional Course Costs

While there are no compulsory additional costs associated with this course, there may be general additional costs that you may incur as a student. A list of the sort of costs you might expect can be found on our fees and finance section.

Funding Your Studies

It can be hard to know what financial help is available to you as a student.

Further information about the variety of options that can help fund your studies and maximise the money available to you is available on our funding your studies section.

Postgraduate Master's Loan

If you live in England you may be able to apply for a special Government-funded Master's Loan to help pay your tuition fees and living costs. You don't have to pay the loan back until you're earning a certain amount of money.

Scholarships

Every year we award numerous non-repayable scholarships to UK, EU and international students on the basis of academic excellence, personal circumstances or economic hardship. For full details, visit our scholarships section.

Career Prospects

As a graduate, you will be:

• highly-skilled in a range of forensic science laboratory techniques
• confident in your own scientific skills
• comfortable with the preparation and delivery of presentations
• competent in forensic evaluation and writing/presenting evidential statements

You can use the programme as vocational training or as a foundation from which to commence further study or research.

The exit qualification may afford an entry route into careers within the police, criminal justice system and private sector commercial forensic analytical companies.

Other related career areas include:

• chemical analysis, such as food, chemical industries or pharmaceutical
• clinical laboratories, such as hospital laboratories

Career Opportunities

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.

Support for Your Studies

At Bradford, we’re committed to supporting your success, well-being and future ambitions.

We’re here to provide everything you need to make the most of your time with us, ensuring you not only excel in your studies, but also step confidently into the world of graduate employment.

In addition to the support you receive from your academic tutors, our Student Support Services are here for you throughout your journey - before, during, and after your studies.

Research

The University of Bradford has a history of making knowledge work.

The School of Archaeology and Forensic Sciences aims to provide excellence in a comprehensive range of subject areas, with emphasis on both teaching and research, believing the two activities to be mutually dependent.

The School is internationally recognised for its work, innovation and expertise. We were the first UK university to offer Forensics at degree level. The School has also attracted over £6M funding for research capabilities, which are available for use during this Master’s programme.