Program Overview

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Introduction to the MSc Forensic Science Programme

The MSc Forensic Science programme is designed for graduates with a Bachelor's degree who wish to pursue a postgraduate degree or enhance their knowledge in Forensic Science. This programme aims to provide students with an understanding of fundamental concepts and principles behind the application of scientific techniques used in forensic investigations.

Objectives of the Programme

The MSc Forensic Science programme aims to equip its participants with the key knowledge and capabilities to:

• Understand the fundamental concepts and principles behind the application of scientific techniques to forensic investigations and to the criminal justice system
• Explore the different basic and advanced techniques used in forensic investigation
• Enhance hands-on advanced problem-solving skills by applying the knowledge gained to come up with innovative solutions to problems related to forensic science

Admission Requirements

Applicants seeking admission to this programme must possess either of the following qualifications:

1. A Bachelor's (with Honours) degree or 4-year Bachelor's degree in relevant disciplines; or
2. A Bachelor's degree in relevant disciplines with at least 2 years of relevant work experience. The relevant disciplines would be Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, Geography, Law, Pharmacy, Physics, Probability and Statistics, Psychology, and Social Work.

Programme Structure

The MSc in Forensic Science is a 40 units programme. The programme can be completed full-time over one year (two semesters) or part-time over two years (four semesters) with a maximum candidature of two years for full-time students and four years for part-time students. Students need to complete seven courses comprising of 2 essential courses (8 units) and 32 units of elective courses.

Core Courses

• FSC5101: Survey of Forensic Science (4 units)
• FSC5205: Forensic Science in Major Cases (4 units)

Elective Courses

• FSC5199: Research Project in Forensic Science (16 units)
• FSC5201: Advanced CSI Techniques (4 units)
• FSC5202: Forensic Defense Science (4 units)
• FSC5203: Digital Forensic Investigation (4 units)
• FSC5204: Forensic Psychiatry & Psychology (4 units)
• FSC5206: Specialised Topics in Forensic Science I (4 units)
• FSC5207: Specialised Topics in Forensics II (4 units)

Other Elective Courses

• FSC4201: Articulating Probability and Statistics in Court (4 units)
• FSC4202: Forensic Human Identification (4 units)
• FSC4203: Forensic Toxicology and Poisons (4 units)
• FSC4204: Criminalistics: Evidence and Proof (4 units)
• FSC4205: Criminalistics: Authenticity, Fraud and Counterfeit (4 units)
• FSC4206: Advanced Criminal Litigation – Forensics on Trial (5 units)
• FSC4207: Forensic Entomology (4 units)
• IFS4102: Digital Forensics (4 units)

Continuation Requirements

For continuation of candidature, a student must obtain satisfactory progress during his/her candidature.

1. Academic warnings will be issued to students if their GPA falls below 3.0 (but ≥2.50); and
2. Dismissal will be issued to students if their GPA falls below 2.50 for two consecutive semesters of study; or GPA below 3.00 (but ≥2.50) for three consecutive semesters of study.

Graduation Requirements

To be awarded the MSc in Forensic Science, the student must successfully complete a programme of study consisting of at least 40 units with a minimum GPA of 3.00, which consist of the following:

1. 24 units from the prescribed essential and elective courses list
2. 16 units from FSC5199 Research Project in Forensic Science

Programme Fees and Fee Payment

Full programme fees of S$55,590 (inclusive of 9% GST) will be effective from AY2026/2027, Semester 1 intake. Full-time students will pay the tuition fees over the first two semesters and part-time students will pay the tuition fees over the first four semesters, following the payment plan:

Semester	Full Time (inclusive of GST)	Part Time (inclusive of GST)
Acceptance Fee	5,450	5,450
1	22,345	8,447.50
2	27,795	13,897.50
3	–	13,897.50
4	–	13,897.50

Scholarship Opportunities

MSc Forensic Science students enrolled in the AY2025/26 intake may be eligible for the following scholarship opportunities:

• NUS ASEAN Master’s Scholarship

About the Programme Director

Associate Professor Stella Tan has postgraduate qualifications in law, science, and forensic science. She was a Deputy Senior State Counsel and Deputy Director (Sex Crimes) at Attorney-General’s Chambers and Director (Prosecution and Legal Policy) at Health Sciences Authority prior to joining NUS. She was the recipient of NUS’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award (2007) and the Dean’s Meritorious Teaching Award (2006, 2007 and 2008). She holds concurrent appointments as Assistant Dean (Undergraduate Studies and Student Life) at the Faculty of Science, and Associate Provost (Student Conduct) at the Office of the Senior Deputy President and Provost.