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.
You will study the following modules over a one year period full time, or two years part time:
This downloadable guide allows you to compare modules across all our Forensic courses.
You will study your modules sequentially throughout the course. There are periods of self directed learning where you will study online material including journals, research notes and recommended books before engaging in hands on laboratory training, lectures and seminars on campus.
The MSc Analytical and Forensic Science course is available as a one year full time option, or two years part time option. You will complete a research project in your chosen area of specialisation.
Each module will provide up to 36 hours of contact time. For laboratory based modules you will spend most of your time conducting research and experiments in our laboratories. In an average week you may be designing toxicology experiments to investigate drug overdose cases, analysing human DNA from biological fluids or processing major crime scenes. We expect you to study approximately 150 hours in your own time for each 20 credit module to contribute to your learning.
There are usually opportunities for court visits to observe expert witness testimony, and laboratory visits to our industrial partners.
This MSc programme has been designed to meet the requirements of the analytical and forensic science industry. We have developed long standing partnerships with several key employers in industry and these partners have a significant contribution to the course, from helping to design the curriculum, to providing guest lectures and opportunities for student placements.
Please note that placement opportunities are subject to availability.
The following data explains how each module is assessed:
Advanced DNA Analysis and Profiling (20 credits)
Exam 40%
Coursework 60%
Analytical Techniques and Quality in the Forensic Laboratory (20 credits)
100% coursework
Analytical toxicology (20 credits)
Exam 40%
Coursework 60%
Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Casework (20 credits)
100% coursework
Advanced Crime Scene and Evidence Analysis (20 credits)
100% coursework
Project Design, Management and Enterprise (20 credits)
100% coursework
(This module also includes a separate Prince2 foundation course exam)
Laboratory Research Project (60 credits)
Dissertation (60%)
Presentation: 20%
Laboratory research plan and log: 20%
Students have the opportunity to undertake a work placement with Synergy Health Laboratories where they will undertake laboratory training.
There is also an opportunity to conduct your research project in collaboration with Synergy Health with the possibility of working towards developing UKAS accredited methods of analysis -the ultimate standard in analytical science and a huge boost to your C.V.
The MSc Analytical and Forensic Science course focuses on practical investigative skills at the crime scene and in the forensic laboratory, and the presentation of these findings for legal purposes.
You will benefit from industry standard instruments, providing you with skills in a wide range of evidence examination techniques.
Our excellent facilities include a multi-room Crime Scene Training Facility, dedicated instrument laboratories and a DNA analysis suite. This gives you experience in crime scene examination and chain of custody processes, as well as potential issues at crime scenes.
You will be taught by staff in our analytical and forensic science team which consist of specialist forensic science practitioners, experts in DNA analysis and bloodstain pattern analysis, experts in forensic toxicology, crime scene investigators and chartered chemists.
We also employ several specialists from industry to deliver training on this course to enhance your study.
A 2:2 BSc (Hons) degree in either a course accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences in forensic science, forensic chemistry, forensic biology, or, forensic investigation.
Applications from students holding a 2:2 BSc (Hons) degree, which includes chemistry are invited, other applicants will be considered on an individual basis.
The course welcomes international applicants and requires an English level of IELTS 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component or equivalent.
Full-time fees are per year. Part-time fees are per 20 credits. Once enrolled, the fee will remain at the same rate throughout the duration of your study on this course.
Students have access to a wide range of resources including textbooks, publications, and computers in the University’s library and via online resources. In most cases they are more than sufficient to complete a course of study. Where there are additional costs, either obligatory or optional, these are detailed below. Of course students may choose to purchase their own additional personal resources/tools over and above those listed to support their studies at their own expense. All stationery and printing costs are at a student’s own expense.
* Obligatory
| Item | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Kit / Equipment | Students are encouraged to equip themselves with a suitable cotton laboratory coat, suitable for working in a chemical laboratory, and a pair of personal protective laboratory goggles, although the School does provide these items.
Students who are successful in securing an industry-based project may, in a small number of cases, be required to purchase additional personal protective equipment as specified by the specific organisation or company.
|
|
| Bench fee * | £1000 | |
| PRINCE2 training course * | £500 - £1000 |
You can apply for a postgraduate loan as a contribution towards your course and living costs.
There are many exciting employment opportunities in the analytical and forensic science sector. Key recruitment areas are DNA profiling, analytical chemistry and toxicological analysis. In these competitive fields, a postgraduate qualification will really make you stand out from the crowd. We have had an excellent response to the MSc analytical and forensic science from science companies across the UK. Major national companies regularly contact the University specifically asking for our MSc Analytical and Forensic Science graduates to apply for positions with them.
Our MSc graduates have been offered employment in toxicology, DNA and forensic science companies across the UK. An MSc award in Analytical and Forensic Science will demonstrate to employers the highest level of achievement and training.
As a USW student, you will have access to advice from the Careers and Employability Service throughout your studies and after you graduate.
This includes: one-to-one appointments from faculty based Career Advisers, in person, over the phone or even on Skype and through email via the "Ask a Question" service. We also have extensive online resources for help with considering your career options and presenting yourself well to employers. Resources include psychometric tests, career assessments, a CV builder, interview simulator and application help. Our employer database has over 2,000 registered employers targeting USW students, you can receive weekly email alerts for jobs.
Our Careers service has dedicated teams: A central work experience team to help you find relevant placements; an employability development team which includes an employability programme called Grad Edge; and an Enterprise team focused on new business ideas and entrepreneurship.
The Pontypridd Campus is made up of two sites; Treforest and Glyntaff. Our students love the community atmosphere. It’s quieter than the cities, with green open spaces and views across the valley.
The Pontypridd Campus is made up of two sites: Treforest and Glyntaff. Our students love the community atmosphere, as well as living and studying in the same place. It’s quieter than the cities, with green open spaces and views across the valley.
It’s the community and friendships you’ll build that make this place special. Outside your studies you can experience our amazing sport facilities and Students’ Union.
Living in Halls is a great way to meet new people and make friends. We have high quality accommodation in Treforest, Cardiff and Newport.
