Forensic Science MSc

Duration

13 Months

22 Months

Location

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Stoke-on-Trent campus

The MSc Forensic Science course focuses upon the application of up-to-date methods used in forensic science. Students will have the opportunity to document and collect evidence in our Simulation Suite, analyse a range of evidence in our laboratories, and present their findings in our mock court room. On this course current issues and challenges faced by forensic practitioners are tackled. Research informed teaching and state of the art facilities prepare students for careers in forensic science.

Our MSc Forensic Science course aims to give you an overview of current approaches in forensics. This award does not focus on one singular aspect of the forensic field but a broader approach to what would be required as an investigator or laboratory scientist.

This programme suits students who have come from a single science background looking to obtain a broader skillset, or those who currently work in the field who are seeking new direction in a research focused role.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Forensic Science.

Our MSc Forensic Science course aims to give you an overview of current approaches in forensics. This award does not focus on one singular aspect of the forensic field but a broader approach to what would be required as an investigator or laboratory scientist.

This programme suits students who have come from a single science background looking to obtain a broader skillset, or those who currently work in the field who are seeking new direction in a research focused role.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSc Forensic Science.

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

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

Course content

Over the course of your study, you will undertake modules that introduce you to the contemporary issues in forensic science - considering where we are as a field now and where we are going in the next few years. This will give you the chance to consider where you fit within the world of forensic science. Alongside this you will undertake study in chemistry, biology, marks and traces, as well as statistical analysis - all of which provide the core structure of your master’s programme.

As well as this you will undertake an extended research project in our facilities in partnership with our academic and technical staff. This will develop during your time on campus as you broaden your understanding of analytical forensic methods.

Academic year

If you are taking the course on a full-time basis, a breakdown of your modules can be found below:

Term 1 Independent Research Project

Contemporary issues in Forensic Science

Statistical Approached in Forensics

Methods of Crime Detection

Term 2

Independent Research Project

Forensic Biology

Forensic Chemistry

Term 3

Independent Research Project

Practical Support

   

If you are taking the course on a part-time basis over two years, a breakdown of your modules per academic year are outlined in the following table:

Part Time - Year 1
Term 1

Methods of Crime Detection

Statistical Approaches in Forensics

Term 2

Forensic Biology

Forensic Chemistry

Term 3 Practical Support
Part Time - Year 2
Term 1

Independent Research Project

Contemporary issues in Forensic Science

Term 2  
Term 3  

 

Over the course of your first 12 months of study, you will undertake modules that give you the chance to consider where you fit within the world of forensic science. Youu will study chemistry, biology, marks and traces, as well as statistical analysis - all of which provide the core structure of your Masters programme.

In your second year of study we will introduce you to the contemporary issues in forensic science - considering where we are as a field now and where we are going in the next few years. This will support your growth and fuel ideas for your extended research project. This will involve you working in our facilities in partnership with our academic and technical staff. This will develop over the course of the year as you broaden your understanding of analytical forensic methods.

Academic year

If you are taking the course on a full-time basis, a breakdown of your modules can be found below:

Term 1 Independent Research Project

Contemporary issues in Forensic Science

Statistical Approached in Forensics

Methods of Crime Detection

Term 2

Independent Research Project

Forensic Biology

Forensic Chemistry

Term 3

Independent Research Project

Practical Support

   

If you are taking the course on a part-time basis over two years, a breakdown of your modules per academic year are outlined in the following table:

Part Time - Year 1
Term 1

Methods of Crime Detection

Statistical Approaches in Forensics

Term 2

Forensic Biology

Forensic Chemistry

Term 3 Practical Support
Part Time - Year 2
Term 1

Independent Research Project

Contemporary issues in Forensic Science

Term 2  
Term 3  

 

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.

This 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.

The MSc Forensic Science course is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

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.

This 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.

The MSc Forensic Science course is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

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
Year 1 compulsory modules
Contemporary Issues In Forensic Science 20 credits
Forensic Biology 20 credits
Forensic Chemistry 20 credits
Independent Research Project 60 credits
Methods Of Crime Detection 20 credits
Practical Support 20 credits
Statistical Approaches To Forensics 20 credits

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
Year 1 compulsory modules
Forensic Biology 20 credits
Forensic Chemistry 20 credits
Methods Of Crime Detection 20 credits
Practical Support 20 credits
Statistical Approaches To Forensics 20 credits
Year 2 compulsory modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Contemporary Issues In Forensic Science 20 credits
Independent Research Project 60 credits

Entry requirements

Level 6 undergraduate degree qualification at 2:2 or equivalent. Prior qualification must be in a relevant numerate discipline include, but not limited to, forensic science, forensic investigation, biology, chemistry, medicine, and veterinary sciences.

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.

Level 6 undergraduate degree qualification at 2:2 or equivalent. Prior qualification must be in a relevant numerate discipline include, but not limited to, forensic science, forensic investigation, biology, chemistry, medicine, and veterinary sciences.

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.

MSc Forensic Science - Postgraduate Webinar Series - Wednesday 18 June 2025

Event

Explore our hands-on MSc Forensic Science course and how it prepares you for a dynamic postgraduate career in forensic investigation.

Facilities

Science Centre

Our £30 million Science Centre in Stoke-on-Trent contains specialist laboratories with the latest state-of-the-art equipment.

Criminalistics Laboratory

Our Criminalistics Laboratory contains an array of equipment that will take you from crime scene to courtroom, giving you the ability to analyse and investigate the evidence which forms the backbone of prosecution and defence cases.

Analytical Laboratory

Our Analytical Laboratory has a comprehensive range of instrumentation for chemical analysis including chromatography, electrochemistry, molecular and atomic spectroscopy.

Mock Court Room

Our Mock Court Room give students the opportunity to present their evidence in a court room setting. This facility is invaluable in preparing students pursuing a career in forensic science or forensic investigation.

Libraries

We have libraries and service desks at both sites in Stoke-on-Trent and Stafford. Our experienced and friendly staff can answer your IT queries, help you to access resources, show you how to research for your assignments and help with referencing.

Lifelike Living Space

The Lifelike Living Space in Ashley 2 lets you practice your skills in evidence documentation and collection in a variety of non-clinical settings, including lounge, bedroom, bathroom, and bedsit.

Custody Suite

The Custody Suite in Ashley 2 has a front desk where suspects are booked in after arrest and is used during practical tasks.

Prison Cell

With its single bed and toilet, this space can be arranged as a holding cell for detainees. The Prison Cell allow students to practice offender management techniques. This room may also be used as a long-term prison cell.

Shop Simulation Space

The Shop Simulation Space is used for simulated commercial crime scenes, where students can document and collect evidence, and speak to witnesses or victims.

Office Simulation Space

The Office Simulation Space contains computers and desks, making it ideal for students’ digital forensic investigations.

Outdoor Simulation Space

The Outdoor Simulation Space 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. 

Science Centre

Our £30 million Science Centre in Stoke-on-Trent contains specialist laboratories with the latest state-of-the-art equipment. Read more

Find out more about our Science Centre Facilities

The Criminalistics Laboratory

Analytical Laboratory

Our Analytical Methods Laboratory has a comprehensive range of instrumentation for chemical analysis including chromatography, electrochemistry, molecular and atomic spectroscopy.

Careers

Someone with an MSc in Forensic Science has a range of specialist technical skills that are of benefit to employers as well as an analytical mindset and acute problem-solving abilities. Graduates can work for the police, government agencies, forensic laboratories, or private companies across a number of areas. Or continue onto doctoral study in our supportive research community.

All students have access to Career Connect, our dedicated careers team.

All students have access to Career Connect, our dedicated careers team.

School of Justice, Security and Sustainability Blog

Blog

Read the latest blog post from different areas of the school

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

You will be taught using a range of interactive face to face lectures, tutorials and workshops alongside practical activities within our laboratory facilities. You will be encouraged to spend time on campus meeting with peers and staff and expected to participate in active discussions and debates around advances in forensic science as you develop your understanding of the field.

You will be taught using a range of interactive face to face lectures, tutorials and workshops alongside practical activities within our laboratory facilities. You will be encouraged to spend time on campus meeting with peers and staff and expected to participate in active discussions and debates around advances in forensic science as you develop your understanding of the field.

Assessment

Assessment is by a series of practical and coursework assignments. The coursework takes a number of forms including essays, reports, analysis of evidence, role play and practical exercises. 

Assessment is by a series of practical and coursework assignments. The coursework takes a number of forms including essays, reports, analysis of evidence, role play and practical exercises. 

Learning support

Your course tutors will provide lots of support. But you can also take advantage of our Academic Skills team, who can help you with:

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

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

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments. Each module normally includes practice or 'formative' assessments for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. As a practical subject you will also receive continuous verbal feedback and demonstrations within the laboratory environment to support your understanding of the underlying theories.

There is a formal or 'summative' assessment at the end of each module and the grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark. You will normally receive feedback on coursework assessments within 20 working days following the date of submission or 25 working days for larger assignments.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments. Each module normally includes practice or 'formative' assessments for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. As a practical subject you will also receive continuous verbal feedback and demonstrations within the laboratory environment to support your understanding of the underlying theories.

There is a formal or 'summative' assessment at the end of each module and the grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark. You will normally receive feedback on coursework assessments within 20 working days following the date of submission or 25 working days for larger assignments.

Staff

You will be taught be dedicated and research active lecturers, whose expertise and knowledge closely match the content of the course. 

Dr Kirsty Squires

Associate Professor

Kirsty is an Associate Professor of Bioarchaeology and MSc Forensic Science course leader.

Kirsty's profile

Dr Abdulrahman Oleiwi

Senior Lecturer

Abdulrahman is a lecturer in forensic genetics and forensic biology. He joined Staffordshire University in 2019 within the school of Law, Policing and Forensics and lectures at all levels on Forensic Biology and DNA Profiling.

Abdulrahman's profile

Fees

For the course starting on 22 September 2025 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for MSc-Full-time
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,165 per course £16,750 per course

For the course starting on 22 September 2025 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for MSc-Full-time
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Part-time £9,135 per course £9,135 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 up to 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.

Our students

Throughout the BSc Policing and Criminal Investigation course I was offered extensive support in my preparation for employment covering curriculum vitae skills, potential career opportunities and current vacancies. The Personal Development Portfolio modules covered these in detail and allowed me to develop my personal skills such as communication and leadership through opportunities as a student mentor and course / faculty representative. On completion of my BSc course, I was offered a position on the MSc Forensic Science course which provided me with a broad range of detailed knowledge and research skills that I could take with me into my employment with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. 

Gary Pickup

Policing and Criminal Investigation and MSc Forensic Science graduate 

I found that having an MSc degree from Staffordshire University gave me a massive advantage when it came to applying for jobs, and the distance learning part was great for me as I live in America

Kaylene Folkes

DNA Forensic Scientist, Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory

Visiting the campus during an open day made me very excited to start this course at Staffordshire University. The different facilities available for forensics, such as the crime scene house, the mock court room and the new laboratories, fully convinced me to start my next challenge at Staffordshire University.

Support was available every time you needed it. The ease of requesting and receiving this support was great. Even when you didn’t ask for support, a hand is reached out to you which you can grab whenever you need to.

Erine Coolkens

MSc. Forensic Science

Apply

Location Award Study option Start date Apply Link
Stoke-on-Trent campus MSc Full-time 22 September 2025 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

Have you considered?

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

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The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021