Forensic Investigation

The MSc in Forensic Investigation at Glasgow Caledonian University offers a comprehensive and industry-relevant curriculum designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for a career in forensic science and investigation. This innovative programme combines theoretical foundations with hands-on training, enabling graduates to effectively contribute to crime scene analysis, evidence collection, laboratory analysis, and criminal justice processes. Students will explore a wide range of topics including forensic biology, fingerprint analysis, digital forensics, forensic chemistry, crime scene management, and investigative techniques. Throughout the course, learners engage with real-world case studies, participate in practical workshops, and benefit from state-of-the-art facilities to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. The programme emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating law, science, and criminology to provide a holistic understanding of forensic investigation within the criminal justice system. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to pursue careers in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, or further academic research in forensic sciences. The MSc degree also offers pathways to professional accreditation and development, fostering continuous learning and contribution to advancements in forensic methodologies. With expert faculty, industry partnerships, and a focus on practical experience, the Forensic Investigation MSc at Glasgow Caledonian University is designed to meet the evolving needs of the forensic science sector and to support students in making meaningful contributions to criminal justice and public safety.

Detailed Course Facts

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• English

Course Content

Year 1: Introductory modules in Chemistry, Biosciences, Law, Maths and Physics. Introduction to Forensic Investigation, a scenario-based module, invites you to apply scientific expertise to real life forensic problems with also some elements of general Psychology to provide an introduction to the biological basis of behaviour and gives an insight into perception, learning and intelligence. These themes are crucial in Forensic Investigation.

Year 2: The core Chemistry theme continues with Chemical Analysis, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry. A Biology module (The Gene) underpins DNA profiling aspects. Relevant Law is studied in the Civil and Criminal Procedure module.

Year 3: Techniques learned in Instrumental Analytical Chemistry will be applied through Forensic Analysis to areas such as substances of abuse and the analysis of toxic residues and fire/major disaster incidents. There will be an emphasis on making valid analytical measurements, including knowledge of the concepts of traceability, robustness and reliability, on which court cases often rely. At this level there is the choice from two specialisms, Environmental Forensics and Forensic Biology, which are continued into level 4 (Honours).

Year 4: In the Dissertation, each student has an individual lab based project relevant to a chosen forensic type problem. Again modular teaching is made relevant to real-life forensic type problem solving. Microscopy in Forensic Analysis is a major theme which includes both optical and state-of-the-art advanced techniques like atomic force microscopy. The two options continue:- Environmental Forensics and Forensic Biology.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• Higher: BBBC
• A-Level: BCC
• Essential Subjects: Chemistry (H/A-level), Mathematics, English (Standard Grade Credit Level/Intermediate 2, GCSE level at C or above).
• Recommended Subjects: Biology (or Human Biology) Higher, English (H), Mathematics (H)
• ILC: BBBC

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Glasgow Caledonian University.

Accreditation

The BSc (Hons) Forensic investigation degree is recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry as satisfying the academic requirements for associate membership.