Course summary

Fascinated by forensics? Dreaming of a career in a specialised field like crime scene investigation, DNA analysis, or toxicology? Looking to stand out with a Masters-level qualification that gives you that key competitive edge? This flexible MSci shares two common years with our popular BSc (Hons) Forensic Science, before branching into a host of advanced modules. You’ll secure a postgraduate (as opposed to undergraduate) degree, and you can choose the study path that best-suits your professional ambitions. From day one, you’ll be working with genuine experts in world-class facilities. Comb our famous crime-scene house for clues; work on case studies built from the real-world experiences of our teaching team; review your evidence in our dedicated forensics, chemistry, bioarchaeology, and ballistics labs; and present your findings in NTU’s authentic on-site courtrooms. You’ll be supported by prestigious guest speakers, placement and study-abroad opportunities, and a close-knit community of staff and students. Forensics is a global science with a huge range of professional applications — from food safety and biometric security to the worldwide battle against counterfeiting, smuggling, and dangerous new designer drugs. With a Masters-level qualification, an enhanced understanding of the full forensic process, and some superb professional connections, you won’t just be an option for employers — you’ll be their priority. Why study this course?

• You’ll complete your undergraduate and Masters-level forensic studies in the space of one degree course – emerging with a single, powerful qualification.

• It’s accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences — the gold standard in degree-level forensic education.

• We have some of the best facilities in the UK — so good, they’re used to train organisations like the HMRC, the British Transport Police, and rescue services across the East Midlands.

• You’ll be learning from the experts. Our teaching team has the highest number of former and current forensic practitioners in the UK — and in 2022, four of the School of Science and Technology’s six nominees for ‘Outstanding Teaching Staff’ came from the Forensic Sciences team.

• You’ll have the chance to complete a 12-month professional work placement with organisations like the fire brigade, the NHS, and even the Dutch police — an opportunity that’s created job offers for many of our students before they’ve even graduated.

• Looking for an international perspective on forensic theory and practice? You can also take part in a year-long exchange programme with our partner university in Canada.

• The BSc (Hons) is a three-year undergraduate course — or four years if you choose to complete a work placement. If your academic performance is strong enough over the first two years, we’ll automatically offer you a place on the MSci course.

• The MSci (Hons) is a four-year course — or five, with placement — that leads to a single postgraduate qualification. The first two years are the same as the BSc course, with advanced, Masters-level study then spread across the third and fourth years.