Program Overview

Forensic Biology & Investigation

MSc/PGDip/PGCert

Attendance

Full-time

Campus

Preston Campus

Start

September 2025

Duration

1 year

Delivery

In-person

Overview

This course is taught through block learning. Learn how biological evidence and DNA can aid criminal investigations. Develop your skills in forensic biology and investigation, as you learn from world-leading experts.

Why Study with Us

• You'll have access to forensic biology, forensic taphonomy and DNA laboratories.
• You will be taught by internationally-renowned experts in forensic biology and DNA, with real case experience.
• You can choose from a range of optional modules, specialising your degree to suit your career goals.

What You'll Do

• Explore forensic biology and wildlife crime through a range of lectures, practical sessions, fieldwork and case studies.
• Gain hands-on experience and transferable skills to prepare for a career in forensic science, crime scene investigation, analytical laboratories, the police or academia.
• You may be able to apply for research placements with forensic laboratories and facilities, in the UK or abroad.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• Dissertation
  • Module code: FZ4817
  • Description: Design and plan a research project and undertake statistical analysis of data. Carry out independent research project that is based on a systematic review of the literature, laboratory or field experiments, or questionnaires and surveys.
• Crime Scene to Court
  • Module code: FZ4818
  • Description: Guide through a case—from collecting evidence at the crime scene to laboratory analysis, interpretation, and presenting the findings in court.
• Biological Evidence
  • Module code: FZ4824
  • Description: Develop your skills in examining and reporting forensic evidence and enhance your understanding of the forensic process in a laboratory setting.
• Wildlife Crime
  • Module code: FZ4825
  • Description: Provide an understanding of the background and context of wildlife crime and its investigation both nationally and internationally.

Optional Modules

• Forensic Genetics
  • Module code: FZ4819
  • Description: Provide an insight into genetic variability and the application of that variability to forensic genetics.
• Forensic Taphonomy
  • Module code: FZ4820
  • Description: Provide knowledge about the process of death and the stages of human decomposition from the early post-mortem period (minutes and hours) to the later stages (months, years, decades, and centuries).
• Identification of the Living and the Deceased
  • Module code: FZ4821
  • Description: Help you understand the humanitarian and legal obligations, both national and international, related to identifying the living and the deceased.

Entry Requirements

• An honours undergraduate degree (2:2 or above) in a relevant subject
• For applicants where English is a second language, IELTS 6.0 with no component score less than 5.5

Fees and Funding

• UK: £9,450 per year (2025/26)
• International: £17,900 per year (2025/26)

Additional Costs

• As part of your course there may be additional costs to consider that are not included in your tuition fees. Most of these will be optional, but some courses have essential additional costs.

Scholarships and Bursaries

• We offer many scholarships, bursaries and funds to support you during your studies.
• Select your country or region to see if you are eligible and how to apply.

Learning and Assessment

• You’ll learn in our state-of-the-art facilities.
• This course will be assessed through a variety of scientific reports, oral presentations, practical reports, case notes, and written and practical exams.

Academic Expertise

• Dr William Goodwin: Reader in Forensic Genetics
• Paul Langton: Lecturer in Forensic Science
• PC Peter Cross: Senior Lecturer
• Professor Anna Williams: Professor of Forensic Science

Future Careers

• On completion of the MSc Forensic Biology and Investigation, you will be ready for a career in forensic science.
• You can specialise in biological evidence, DNA, blood pattern analysis or criminal investigation.
• You’ll also gain transferrable skills which are relevant to related fields. This includes forensic science, analytical laboratories, the police, the NHS, education and the wider scientific sector.