Course summary
The MSc Analytical and Forensic Science has been designed to provide expert laboratory training and help you secure employment in analytical science, DNA analysis or forensic science sectors. Accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the MSc Analytical and Forensic Science course focuses on cutting edge research, the latest analytical techniques, and transferable and professional skills that will prepare you to practise as a professional analytical or forensic scientist. The MSc Analytical and Forensic Science is building a reputation for producing excellent scientists and highly sought-after graduates. Our postgraduates have been offered employment in some of the most prestigious companies in the UK and Europe, in fields ranging from analytical toxicology to forensic DNA analysis.
Modules
You will study the following modules over a one year period full time, or two years part time: Advanced DNA analysis and profiling (20 credits) Separation science (20 credits) Analytical toxicology (20 credits) Interpretation, evaluation and presentation of casework (20 credits) Advanced crime scene and evidence analysis (20 credits) Project design, management and enterprise (20 credits) Laboratory research project (60 credits) Module overview DNA Analysis and Profiling You will gain a thorough understanding of DNA analysis and interpretation techniques. 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. Analytical Toxicology 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. Practical laboratory work will include method development and validation techniques and in addition we will focus on the challenging area of hair analysis for clinical and forensic toxicology. Separation Science You will gain knowledge of the basis and application of a number of novel analytical and extraction techniques such as chiral chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, solid phase microextraction and derivatisation techniques. You will also receive high level practical training in areas such as GCMS/MS, LCMS/MS and ICP-OES. You will also be fully trained in experimental design and effective method development. The module also focuses on instrument maintenance and trouble shooting, which are valuable skills in employment. Advanced Crime Scene and Evidence Analysis You will learn how to effectively process major and specialist crime scenes through our simulation facilities, and will study novel mapping techniques such as 3D scanning and LIDAR as applied to crime scene investigation. Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Casework 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 chemometrics and bayesian theory as applied to forensic casework. Project Design, Management and Enterprise You have the opportunity to complete a PRINCE 2 foundation certificate as part of this course, which will stand you in good stead for the management of major projects in laboratories. The PRINCE 2 award is a prestigious, internationally recognized qualification. You will also receive training in entrepreneurship, intellectual property, and business skills. Please note there is an additional fee of £1500.00 to study this module. This fee also includes laboratory costs. A 60 credit research project allows you to customise the MSc and specialise in a chosen field.
Assessment method
Laboratory research project
Entry requirements
A 2.2 BSc (Hons) degree in forensic science, forensic chemistry, forensic biology or a related course, including chemistry.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
University of South Wales
Llantwit Road
Treforest
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL