Forensic Science MSc

You get an in-depth knowledge of the theory and principles of a range of analytical techniques used when undertaking detailed analyses of biological and chemical materials. You focus on core techniques using chromatography, mass spectrometry and spectroscopy. You study the selection and application of appropriate analytical techniques, in order to formulate strategies to investigate scientific problems.

You study a series of laboratory sessions supported by lectures and tutorials. You are assessed by two laboratory reports (100%).

You examine, interpret and evaluate complex biological evidence within casework-related scenarios. Types of evidence include hair and fibres, body fluids, blood pattern analysis and DNA. You also consider the use of microbial, anthropological and odonatological evidence in a forensic context.
Your knowledge, understanding and skills are developed by lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions and self-directed study. You are assessed by an in-course assessment of examination notes and evidential interpretation (30%) and an end assessment (70%).

You explore theoretical and practical organic and inorganic chemistry relating to forensic science. You focus on key evidence types at scenes of crime or recovered from an individual. You also examine principal types of chemical evidence including particulate evidence (paint, glass, soil), marks evidence (footwear marks, tool marks) and drugs of abuse within the context of an investigation.

You attend lectures, practical and tutorial sessions. You are assessed by a court presentation (30%) and examination (70%).

You develop an understanding of the principles associated with crime scene science and its relationship with forensic analysis and the legal process. You address key areas in forensic practice such as quality standards, evidence continuity and contamination issues. You also get an understanding of the methodologies used for processing and examination of physical evidence.

Your lectures are supported by a series of practical sessions which include evidence recovery at a mock crime scene and the initial forensic examination of recovered items. You are assessed by a presentation (30%) and a report (70%).

Forensic evidence of all types plays a major role in the detection of crime and the successful investigation of other types of incident such as road traffic collisions and natural disasters. You explore the legal and procedural contexts in which forensic science operates, providing you with opportunities to develop skills and knowledge for the gathering, examination and presentation of evidence in a range of situations.

You attend a series of keynote lectures, seminars and a practical session in the University’s replica courtroom. You may have an opportunity to visit a local coroner’s office and/or court. You are assessed by a portfolio (30%) and evidence in the form of a written statement and verbal presentation in a simulated courtroom situation (70%).

You develop a proposal for your research project, which contains an explanation targeted at both a specialist audience and the general public, details of experimental design and statistical analysis to be employed. You consider the impacts of the proposed work both in the form of academic beneficiaries, economic, environmental and societal impacts. Your project costs are estimated on a full economic costing model. You also include a targeted CV.

You attend a short lecture series at the start of the academic year that will provide an introduction and advice. You are allocated a project area and supervisor and you produce a research proposal for the project. You are supported by a series of meetings with your supervisor and receive feedback on your progress. You acquire ethical clearance from the School Research Ethics Committee.

You are assessed by the successful acquisition of ethical clearance (pass/fail) and submission of a completed research project proposal and supporting CV (100%).

This module will provide an appropriate environment for an in-depth investigation of a subject relevant to the programme chosen and the continued development of cognitive, professional and transferable skills. It aims to unify your understanding and awareness of engineering or science as developed in the programme, with individual and independent research and analysis on a selected topic within the discipline. It also aims to expose you to the management of a significant project and to enable you to apply research methods relevant to your specific field and related discipline.

You investigate problems which involve the consideration of relevant legal, social, ethical, environmental and other professional issues.

You will be expected to develop and practice a professional approach to the presentation, delivery and appraisal of your written and oral presentations.