Become a Master of Investigation

The study of crime has reached a new level at the University of Teesside, with the launch of a new Master of Science (MSc) course in Forensic Investigation. The course is believed to be unique in the UK, as it spans the whole detailed investigative process, from the initial crime scene to presentation of evidence in court. The MSc, which can be studied full-time over one year, extends the University’s range of forensic undergraduate courses, including BSc (Hons) Crime Scene Science and BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation with Criminology, Law and Psychology.

Tim James, Course Leader for the MSc is a former Crime Scene Examiner with Durham Police. He said: “The course will be of interest to a range of people, such as recent graduates and those already in the workplace such as police officers or those from legal or medical professions. For example, a barrister or solicitor studying the course would gain a greater appreciation of the investigative process and be able to interpret and evaluate evidence rather than relying on the opinions of others. They will also be in a stronger position to investigate further and determine any flaws in the prosecution or defence case. Individuals working in the medical profession will gain an invaluable insight into how their role impacts on the wider investigative process.”

The MSc consists of ten taught modules and one individual research project. Course modules include: Forensic Investigation, Forensic Identification, Management of Crime Scenes, Interpretation & Evaluation of Evidence and Forensic Analysis.

Students will also undertake practical work in the University’s Crime Scene House Laboratory. The 16-room Crime House, on the University’s main campus in Middlesbrough, was opened in 2002, and is the biggest and most elaborate facility of its kind in the UK. Under the view of CCTV cameras, students will perfect their evidence-gathering skills and their knowledge of crime scene investigation.

Tim James added: “We can recreate most crime scenes, so students can appreciate where evidence has originated and the constraints that practitioners work within, in terms of recovering and recording evidence.”

Julie Mennell, Assistant Director of Science and Technology said: “This is a innovative, cutting edge course that will be of considerable benefit to graduates as well as practitioners, wishing to enhance their understanding of crime scene investigation and forensic science. It very much compliments our existing courses and offers students the opportunity to progress to MSc level from their undergraduate studies. We are very pleased that this option is now available to part-time students who can study BSc Crime Scene Science on a day release basis and proceed on to the Masters course”.

European Social Fund (ESF) money is available to pay for MSc course fees, to full-time students who meet the criteria. For part-time students fees are £170 per module. Students should have first degrees in one of the following subjects: Science, Crime Scene Science or Forensic Investigation, Criminology, Psychology, Law or related fields or have significant practitioner experience.

For more details please contact Tim James, Course Leader on 01642 342499 e-mail: Tim.James@tees.ac.uk

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