MSci in Forensic Science at University of Northumbria at Newcastle U.K.
Forensic Science covers a wide range of scientific disciplines applied in a legal context. A forensic scientist examines items of evidential value and presents their findings in court. They work within a specific area of expertise such as forensic biology, which includes, for example, blood pattern analysis and DNA interpretation and forensic chemistry which includes, for example, drug analysis and paint/glass examination.
Forensic scientists may be called on to attend scenes of crime to apply their specific knowledge in a potentially hostile environment and collect items of potential evidential value. They will utilise analytical techniques based on the sub disciplines of biology and chemistry to interpret these samples. They will then produce a written (expert witness) statement which explains those findings in ‘layman’s terms’ for the judge and jury.
This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to pursue a research career in Forensic Science or enhance your career prospects in areas where an extensive knowledge of Forensic Science and its techniques are valued. This integrated masters degree places a strong emphasis on laboratory work and applications, underpinned by a thorough grounding in theoretical aspects.
The course benefits from specialist teaching staff of former forensic scientists and places a strong emphasis on ‘hands on’ laboratory work.
Core themes of pure and applied sciences are taught in the context of forensic science. The three key areas of forensic investigation:-
Crime scene investigation
Laboratory analysis
Court presentation
are embedded throughout, which will allow you to explore all areas thoroughly before embarking on a career choice.
At least 40% of the curriculum involves laboratory or computer based experimentation and access to modern instrumental techniques will be paramount in your development.
Support through a thorough grounding in theoretical aspects, provides the skills, knowledge and problem solving abilities required for a successful career in industry, teaching, research and other careers where scientific skills are valued.
The final year project is a chance for you to explore, in greater detail, an aspect of emerging forensic science and benefits from the expertise of specialist staff members.
Direct entry to the final year of the MSci Forensic Science is available for students with appropriate qualifications at BSc (Honours) level - if you wish to be considered for this, please contact us for more details on 0191 227 4721.