MSc Analytical and Forensic Science

You will study the following modules over a one-year period full time, or two years part-time:

• Current and Emerging Methods for DNA Analysis in Forensics and Medicine (20 credits)
  You will gain a thorough understanding of DNA analysis and interpretation techniques that can be applied to Forensics and Medicine. There is practical training in a large range of advanced extraction techniques, quantitation, amplification and electrophoresis of DNA, through simulated case-work using our crime scene house and DNA analysis laboratory. Through this, students will be able to understand the methods needed for detecting biological evidence and the processes involved in obtaining the DNA profile from such material. Students will also learn about the testing of DNA for medical diagnostics using techniques such as DNA microarray sequencing.

• Analytical Techniques and Quality in the Laboratory (20 credits)
  This module has been designed to provide you with the opportunity to develop your independent learning skills, which is a central part of postgraduate study. You will make use of a web-based learning package to gain the theoretical understanding of the following topics: HPLC, GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, Sample Preparation and Basic Laboratory Skills (laboratory safety, errors, volumetric lab equipment, measuring pH, UV-Visible Spectroscopy). This is supported with tutorial sessions with academic staff, to provide further explanation and support. The critical issues of performing analysis in an analytical forensic laboratory will be explored through practical sessions, during which you will undertake training in method validation principles and processes. You will perform a validation on an analytical method, whilst ensuring that the requirements of ISO17025 are fulfilled from a practical perspective.
  
  
• Analytical and Forensic toxicology (20 credits)
  This module focuses on the detection and quantitation of a range of drugs of abuse in biological matrices such as blood, urine saliva and hair. You will receive a high level of practical laboratory training in several drug extraction methods and confirmation techniques such as GCMS and ICP-OES. This module will also explore the metabolism of compounds and how these can be used in the interpretation of results. Practical and simulation work will also include analysis of biological samples and blood plasma simulations.  
  
  
• Statistical Analysis Tools and The Expert Witness (20 credits)
  You will learn about the law as it relates to the forensic scientist and their relationship with the police, lawyers and courts, and the role of the expert witness. You will receive training from professional case working forensic scientists in how to draft expert witness statements and how to give testimony in court. You will also be provided with training in Bayesian theory as applied to forensic casework, together with training in Chemometrics, using mathematical and statistical methods enabling you to correlate quality parameters to analytical instrument data. This module will teach you the statistical tools required for the interpretation of data so you can critically evaluate this. 
  
  
• Crime Scene Management and Advanced Scene Processing (20 credits)
  You will learn how to effectively process major and specialist crime scenes through our simulation facilities, and will understand the specialist roles that are involved in the investigation process.
  
  
• Method Development for Trace Evidence Analysis (20 credits)
  This module is designed for students to be able to develop, validate and apply suitable forensic analytical methods for trace and particulate evidence to obtain accurate and meaningful results. The module will ensure students understand the fundamental principles of method development for trace evidence analysis using instruments such as GRIM and SEM-EDX, FTIR and GC-IMS. It will also cover some case-based scenarios for evidence types such as glass, paint and GSR.
  
  
• Major Independent Research Project (60 credits)
  A 60 credit research project allows you to customise the MSc and specialise in a chosen field to complete your dissertation. Projects will normally be completed at the University, there may be opportunities to complete a project with an industrial partner.

You will study your modules sequentially throughout the course. There are periods of self directed learning where you will study online material including journals, research notes and recommended books before engaging in hands on laboratory training, lectures and seminars on campus.

The MSc Analytical and Forensic Science course is available as a one year full time option, or two years part time option. You will complete a research project in your chosen area of specialisation.

Each module will provide up to 36 hours of contact time. For laboratory based modules you will spend most of your time conducting research and experiments in our laboratories. In an average week you may be designing toxicology experiments to investigate drug overdose cases, analysing human DNA from biological fluids or processing major crime scenes. We expect you to study approximately 150 hours in your own time for each 20 credit module to contribute to your learning.

There are usually opportunities for court visits to observe expert witness testimony, and laboratory visits to our industrial partners.

This MSc programme has been designed to meet the requirements of the analytical and forensic science industry. We have developed long standing partnerships with several key employers in industry and these partners have a significant contribution to the course, from helping to design the curriculum, to providing guest lectures and opportunities for student placements.

Please note that placement opportunities are subject to availability.

Modules are assessed in a combination of different approaches including in-term tests, practical and laboratory skills assessments, written coursework, laboratory reports, simulated case work files, preparation of witness statements, mock court sessions, oral presentation and dissertations.

The assessments have been designed to prepare students for employment after study and many of the skills are transferable to the workplace but also build on key skills such as independent working and team work.