Skip navigation
Forensic Science at University of Strathclyde - UCAS

Course summary

The MSc in Forensic Science is the UK’s longest established forensic science degree, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2016/2017. You’ll join a global network of Strathclyde forensic science graduates who are in highly respected positions all over the world. In addition to preparing you for life as a forensic scientist, you’ll also graduate with a wide range of practical skills, problem-solving skills, and investigative thinking, relevant to a wide range of careers. You'll benefit from the expertise of our enthusiastic teaching staff who also conduct forensic science research and casework. Studying in the Centre for Forensic Science offers a unique experience, combining ‘case-based’ learning with research-led teaching. You'll cover core aspects of forensic science in Semester 1 including:

  • preservation and recovery of evidence at a crime scene
  • assessment and analysis of a wide range of evidence types
  • legal systems, quality assurance, and ethical considerations of forensic science
  • the interpretation, statistical evaluation, and reporting of evidence
Following the general introduction in Semester 1, you can choose to specialise in either forensic biology or forensic chemistry. As a forensic biologist you’ll study a range of topics including:
  • investigation of assaults
  • biological trace evidence
  • DNA profiling and DNA mixture analysis
  • investigation of sexual offences
If you choose to specialise in forensic chemistry, you’ll develop expertise in:
  • analysis of illicit substances
  • toxicology and alcohol analysis
  • investigation of fires and explosives
  • analytical chemistry for forensic scientists

Modules

Professional & Career Skills; Essentials in Forensic Science; Essentials of Forensic Science: Practical; Practical Crime Scene Exercise; Forensic Biology 1; Forensic Biology 2; Forensic Chemistry 1; Forensic Chemistry 2; Practical Examination in Optional Classes; Dissertation.

Assessment method

A wide range of assessment methods are utilised, including written coursework, laboratory reports, quizzes, data analysis exercises, scientific writing exercises, court reports, crime scene reports, case files, oral presentations and formal written examinations. The project is assessed through the completion of a dissertation.

Professional bodies

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

  • Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Entry requirements

Minimum second class honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science subject such as: Chemistry; Biology; Biochemistry; Pharmacy; Zoology; Botany. Prospective students with relevant industry experience are also welcome to apply. IELTS 6.5 is required for all non-English speakers for entry to the MSc programme, with a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for all components including speaking, listening, reading and writing


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £10850 Year 1
Northern Ireland £10850 Year 1
Scotland £10850 Year 1
Wales £10850 Year 1
Channel Islands £10850 Year 1
International £24250 Year 1

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

You will also be required to pay a laboratory fee of 1,500 GBP. This fee is a requirement for continued registration on the course and you will receive a separate invoice with payment instructions once the course begins in September. For information on tuition fees, additional costs and funding for this programme, please view the programme details on the University of Strathclyde website.

Sponsorship information

www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/scholarships/

Forensic Science at University of Strathclyde - UCAS