Digital Forensic Investigation

MSc

Location

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Start dates available

  • September 2026

Start dates available

  • September 2026

Innovative software

Use new tech employed to record crime scenes and analyse electronic evidence

Expert academics

Taught by staff from both criminal justice, forensics and computing

Simulation facilities

Learn in our lifelike environments that can be set up to mirror crime scenes

This innovative award focuses on the use of emerging technologies to capture, preserve and analyse digital evidence, while developing an understanding of the wider context of digital investigations.

You will explore key areas including the documentation and seizure of digital devices at crime scenes, first responder triage, the integration of digital evidence with other forensic disciplines, and professional practice within environments such as police briefings, client meetings and wellbeing planning. This rapidly evolving field reflects the changing nature of forensic investigations across the world.

You will develop current knowledge and practical skills for a career in the fast-moving field of digital forensic investigation. Using industry-standard software and methodologies, you will learn how to identify, recover, document and interpret digital evidence to professional and quality standards. Alongside the taught modules, you will complete an independent research project on a digital forensic topic of your choice.

Learning is centred around realistic investigative scenarios, enabling you to apply theory to practice through hands-on exercises in specialist computing laboratories, science laboratories and our crime scene simulation facilities.

This award is ideal for graduates and professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, including forensic science, forensic investigation, computing, policing and the social sciences, who wish to specialise in digital forensic investigation.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Digital Forensic Investigation

Duration

You can take the full-time route, over 12 months, or a part-time route over 24 months.

There is no placement as part of this course. However, students may wish to take some form of relevant employment or voluntary work as part of their course. The Staffordshire Forensic Partnership could facilitate work placements for students.

This innovative award focuses on the use of emerging technologies to capture, preserve and analyse digital evidence, while developing an understanding of the wider context of digital investigations.

You will explore key areas including the documentation and seizure of digital devices at crime scenes, first responder triage, the integration of digital evidence with other forensic disciplines, and professional practice within environments such as police briefings, client meetings and wellbeing planning. This rapidly evolving field reflects the changing nature of forensic investigations across the world.

You will develop current knowledge and practical skills for a career in the fast-moving field of digital forensic investigation. Using industry-standard software and methodologies, you will learn how to identify, recover, document and interpret digital evidence to professional and quality standards. Alongside the taught modules, you will complete an independent research project on a digital forensic topic of your choice.

Learning is centred around realistic investigative scenarios, enabling you to apply theory to practice through hands-on exercises in specialist computing laboratories, science laboratories and our crime scene simulation facilities.

This award is ideal for graduates and professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, including forensic science, forensic investigation, computing, policing and the social sciences, who wish to specialise in digital forensic investigation.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Digital Forensic Investigation

Duration

You can take the full-time route, over 12 months, or a part-time route over 24 months.

There is no placement as part of this course. However, students may wish to take some form of relevant employment or voluntary work as part of their course. The Staffordshire Forensic Partnership could facilitate work placements for students.

Course content

This award is delivered between the Departments of Sports and Science, and the Department of Computing and Esports – combining their expertise across the investigation and digital spectrums. You will take five compulsory modules. The postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma form the first two stages of the award.

At the certificate level, the focus is on establishing core skills within the field. Digital Forensics Principles imparts the required knowledge of industry standards, crime scene processing, forensic intersectionality and data analysis from common systems such as Android, iOS and Windows. This is complimented by Operational Digital Forensics, which provides the basis for interacting in professional environments such as police briefings and client meetings, creating an understanding of how a digital forensics practitioner may interact with other professions.

At the diploma stage, you’ll further develop your subject specialist knowledge and skills in relation to complex digital evidence in the Enhanced Digital Forensics module, alongside Contemporary Issues and Practive in Forensics which imparts essential understanding of the complexities of both the contemporary and future forensic landscape.

For the MSc stage, you’ll carry out a Master’s Research Project in an area of interest or one chosen from a list of specialist topics aligned to industry needs.

This award is delivered between the Departments of Sports and Science, and the Department of Computing and Esports – combining their expertise across the investigation and digital spectrums. You will take five compulsory modules. The postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma form the first two stages of the award.

At the certificate level, the focus is on establishing core skills within the field. Digital Forensics Principles imparts the required knowledge of industry standards, crime scene processing, forensic intersectionality and data analysis from common systems such as Android, iOS and Windows. This is complimented by Operational Digital Forensics, which provides the basis for interacting in professional environments such as police briefings and client meetings, creating an understanding of how a digital forensics practitioner may interact with other professions.

At the diploma stage, you’ll further develop your subject specialist knowledge and skills in relation to complex digital evidence in the Enhanced Digital Forensics module, alongside Contemporary Issues and Practive in Forensics which imparts essential understanding of the complexities of both the contemporary and future forensic landscape.

For the MSc stage, you’ll carry out a Master’s Research Project in an area of interest or one chosen from a list of specialist topics aligned to industry needs.

Professional body accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

The course is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

Professional body accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

The course is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Please note, we are refreshing our curriculum which means the module structure may be subject to change. These planned changes aim to further develop your professional skills to equip you for the careers of tomorrow.

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Year 1 compulsory modules
Contemporary Issues And Practice In Forensics 30 credits
Digital Forensics Principles 30 credits
Enhanced Digital Forensics 30 credits

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for the award are normally: An undergraduate degree (2:2) in Forensic Science, Forensic Biology, Forensic Investigation, Policing and Criminal Investigation, Computing, STEM, or a related discipline. 

If students do not have the required qualification but have professional experience, we would encourage you to apply as we consider all applications on their individual merit.  Similarly, if you are unsure whether your degree would be appropriate, please contact our enquiries team who will be able to assist you

The entry requirements for the award are normally: An undergraduate degree (2:2) in Forensic Science, Forensic Biology, Forensic Investigation, Policing and Criminal Investigation, Computing, STEM, or a related discipline. 

If students do not have the required qualification but have professional experience, we would encourage you to apply as we consider all applications on their individual merit.  Similarly, if you are unsure whether your degree would be appropriate, please contact our enquiries team who will be able to assist you

Facilities

Mock Courtrooms

One room is designed as a crown courtroom and the other for cases at magistrates’ court. Read more

Students can present legal arguments, act as expert witnesses, or take part in mooting.

Our digitally enabled mock court rooms are designed to create simulated scenarios for students to put theory in to practice and gain confidence, skills and knowledge to take forward in to their career. 

One room is designed as a crown courtroom and the other for cases at magistrates’ court. Students can present legal arguments, act as expert witnesses, or take part in mooting. Each space includes a dock, lawyers’ area and a bench for the judge or magistrates.

The courtrooms are used by a wide range of students from different perspectives including law students, policing, forensics, international relations and more, to give practice with not only mooting but also in presenting evidence and various other aspects of trials.

In our video, learn about simulation in our Mock Court Room, used by students to practice their skills to prepare them for their future career.
Watch video

Lifelike living space

The lifellike living space in Ashley 2 lets you practice your skills in a variety of non-clinical settings, including bedroom, bathroom, lounge and bedsit. Read more

Bedrooms:

The bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and is used for simulated crime scenes where students can practise investigative skills or social work and healthcare can use the space for urgent situations and interviews.

Lounges:

The lounges have a homely feel, with comfy furniture and framed photos. Students can use these spaces for policing or forensic investigations. Social work and healthcare can also use the space for realistic interviews and clinical emergencies.

Bathroom:

The bathroom provides a lifelike backdrop for students to practise their skills. It can be used a range of simulation scenarios, such as domestic crime scenes or clinical emergencies.

Bedsit:

With a kitchen diner, bedroom and bathroom, the bedsit provides a lifelike backdrop for students to practise their skills. Scenarios can range from gathering evidence at simulated crime scenes to dealing with clinical emergencies.
Watch video

Custody suite

There is a front desk where suspects are booked in after arrest. Read more

Other features include equipment for measuring height and taking fingerprints and custody photos, along with evidence bags and lockers for personal belongings.
Watch video

Prison cell

With its single bed and toilet, this space can be arranged as a holding cell for detainees. It’s where students can practise offender management techniques. The room can also be turned into a more long-term prison cell.

Watch video

Shop simulation space

The is ideal for simulated commercial crime scenes, where students can collect evidence and speak to witnesses or victims. Read more

They can also learn about retail law and deal with medical emergencies that occur to customers in the retail space. The space includes shelves, a counter and a small café. It’s ideal for simulated commercial crime scenes, where students can collect evidence and speak to witnesses or victims. They can also learn about retail law and deal with medical emergencies that occur to customers in the retail space.
Watch video

Office simulation space

The office space is kitted out with computers and desks, making it ideal for students’ digital forensic investigations. Read more

Students from a range of courses can also practise their interview skills using an appropriate scenario. 
Watch video

Outdoor simulation space

This area is used for forensic investigations, such as examining vehicles after crashes or collecting evidence from a crime scene. It can also double up as a clinical simulation area, with space for our training ambulance.

Watch video

Careers

After completing the Digital Forensic Investigation MSc, you’ll be qualified to work a variety of roles such as:

  • Digital Forensic Investigator
  • Digital Triage Technician
  • Mobile Data Analyst
  • Technical Manager

Eager for more knowledge? Upon completion, you’ll be ideally placed for further academic study at PhD level.

Students on this programme have the opportunity to enhance their studies with a placement year, gain valuable work experience, and take part in international activities—potentially supported by the Turing funding.

All students have access to Careers, Placements & Employability, our dedicated careers team.

After completing the Digital Forensic Investigation MSc, you’ll be qualified to work a variety of roles such as:

  • Digital Forensic Investigator
  • Digital Triage Technician
  • Mobile Data Analyst
  • Technical Manager

Eager for more knowledge? Upon completion, you’ll be ideally placed for further academic study at PhD level.

Students on this programme have the opportunity to enhance their studies with a placement year, gain valuable work experience, and take part in international activities—potentially supported by the Turing funding.

All students have access to Careers, Placements & Employability, our dedicated careers team.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

Our teaching is delivered in the classroom and laboratory and is supported through the Virtual Learning Environment called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your learning wherever you are. Taught sessions on this course will include lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, and seminars. You will have the opportunity to work with technical pieces of equipment and software which will equip you with the key skills, understanding, and knowledge needed for employment in Digital Forensic Investigation.

We know that everyone learns differently. So, we use problem-based learning to help you apply your skills. 

For this course, you'll: 

  • Work with others on group work 
  • Delve deeper into subject areas in workshops and practical sessions.
  • Be expected to study independently 

You will also be assigned a supervisor to support you throughout your independent research project. 

Assessment

There are two types of assessments: practice (also called formative) or formal (also called summative).

Practice assessments do not count towards your final mark. These are your chance to test your understanding – and learn how to improve for the real thing.

Assessment is by coursework assignments. Coursework takes various forms including coursework, presentations, and the independent research project. There are no examinations on this award.

Learning support

Your lecturers and personal tutor will provide lots of support. However, you can also take advantage of our Academic Skills team, who can help you with: 

  • Study skills (including reading, note-taking, presentation skills) 
  • Written English (including punctuation and grammar) 
  • Academic writing (including how to reference) 
  • Research skills 
  • Critical thinking 
  • Revision, assessment and exam skills (including time management) 

If you have additional needs, like dyslexia or a sensory impairment, then our Student Enabling Centre is here to help ensure you reach your potential at Staffordshire University. 

Additional support

If you have additional needs like dyslexia or a sensory impairment, then our Student Inclusion Services are here to help make sure nothing stands in your way.

Feedback

We know that it’s important for you to be able to gauge your progress. So, your tutor will give you feedback on any practice assessments you do in the form of verbal or written feedback. We usually give you feedback on formal assessments within 20 working days, but the format will vary for each module.  

Teaching

Our teaching is delivered in the classroom and laboratory and is supported through the Virtual Learning Environment called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your learning wherever you are. Taught sessions on this course will include lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, and seminars. You will have the opportunity to work with technical pieces of equipment and software which will equip you with the key skills, understanding, and knowledge needed for employment in Digital Forensic Investigation.

We know that everyone learns differently. So, we use problem-based learning to help you apply your skills. 

For this course, you'll: 

  • Work with others on group work 
  • Delve deeper into subject areas in workshops and practical sessions.
  • Be expected to study independently 

You will also be assigned a supervisor to support you throughout your independent research project. 

Assessment

There are two types of assessments: practice (also called formative) or formal (also called summative).

Practice assessments do not count towards your final mark. These are your chance to test your understanding – and learn how to improve for the real thing.

Assessment is by coursework assignments. Coursework takes various forms including coursework, presentations, and the independent research project. There are no examinations on this award.

Learning support

Your lecturers and personal tutor will provide lots of support. However, you can also take advantage of our Academic Skills team, who can help you with: 

  • Study skills (including reading, note-taking, presentation skills) 
  • Written English (including punctuation and grammar) 
  • Academic writing (including how to reference) 
  • Research skills 
  • Critical thinking 
  • Revision, assessment and exam skills (including time management) 

If you have additional needs, like dyslexia or a sensory impairment, then our Student Enabling Centre is here to help ensure you reach your potential at Staffordshire University. 

Additional support

If you have additional needs like dyslexia or a sensory impairment, then our Student Inclusion Services are here to help make sure nothing stands in your way.

Feedback

We know that it’s important for you to be able to gauge your progress. So, your tutor will give you feedback on any practice assessments you do in the form of verbal or written feedback. We usually give you feedback on formal assessments within 20 working days, but the format will vary for each module.  

Staff

You will be taught by professionally qualified staff.

Please note, teaching team staff members may change during your studies.

Adam Newberry

Senior Lecturer

Adam, is the Course Leader for MSc Digital Forensic Investigation, specialising in Digital Forensics and Forensic Quality Standards. Adam worked in UK policing, performing a variety of operational digital investigations for several years.

Adam's profile

Dr Kirsty Squires

Professor

Kirsty is a Professor of Human Bioarchaeology and MSc Forensic Science course leader.

Kirsty's profile

Dean Northfield

Senior Lecturer

Dean worked for West Yorkshire Police as a VIPER Officer (2 Years) then an Imaging Officer (6 years). He progressed to Senior Imaging Officer, before finishing his time at West Yorkshire Police in the Forensic Multimedia Unit

Dean's profile

Fees

For the course starting on 21 September 2026 the tuition fees are:

Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,435 per course £17,500 per course

For the course starting on 21 September 2026 the tuition fees are:

Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Part-time £9,405 per course £17,460 per course

If you would like to know more about the fees listed and what this means to you then please get in touch with our Enquiries Team.

Alumni discount

If you've previously completed a University of Staffordshire undergraduate degree (excluding HND and foundation degrees) you may be entitled to a discount of 25% off your course fees for any subsequent postgraduate taught course (terms apply, see the alumni discount page for details). If you have any questions about how this relates to you, please contact feesandbursaries@staffs.ac.uk.

Included in the fees:
  • As a Staffordshire University student, you’ll be entitled to a range of free software
  • The use of all specialist technical facilities and hire of equipment relating to the course of study.
  • As a Staffordshire University student, you’ll be entitled to a range of free software
  • The use of all specialist technical facilities and hire of equipment relating to the course of study.
Not included in the fees:
  • Text books are available from the library, but some students choose to purchase their own copies
  • Travel costs
  • Printing
  • Any optional field trips
  • Text books are available from the library, but some students choose to purchase their own copies
  • Travel costs
  • Printing
  • Any optional field trips
Accommodation and living costs

Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

For more information on accommodation and living costs, please see: Accommodation

Sources of financial support

Providing you are studying towards a full Masters qualification you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan to help with tuition fees, maintenance and other associated costs. Student loans are available for many of our postgraduate degrees and are provided by the Student Loans Company (SLC). The loan can cover a wide range of postgraduate study options; part-time, full-time and distance learning. 

For more information and how to apply visit masters loan.

Apply now to Digital Forensic Investigation

Location Award Study option Start date
Stoke-on-Trent campus MSc Full-time 21 September 2026 Apply now

Apply now to Digital Forensic Investigation

Location Award Study option Start date
Stoke-on-Trent campus MSc Part-time 21 September 2026 Apply now

Rules and regulations

If you are offered a place at University of Staffordshire, your offer will be subject to our rules, regulations and enrolment conditions, which may vary from time to time.

Students of University of Staffordshire enter into a contract with us and are bound by these rules and regulations, which are subject to change. For more information, please see: University Policies and Regulations. 

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