Crime and Forensic Science

Forensic science is a dynamic discipline that is crucial to the investigation of crime, the collection of evidence and intelligence, and in securing justice. This multidisciplinary MSc programme offers students a unique opportunity to gain forensic science skills and methods within a holistic crime science framework.

Students will develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of crime and forensic science, together with the key conceptual and philosophical frameworks in this field. They will gain practical skills in crime scene investigation, experimental design and implementation, statistical analysis, data analysis and modelling, and will be able to evaluate the weight and applicability of forensic evidence for investigative and court purposes.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

An exit-only Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) is offered.

Core modules

• Quantitative Methods
• Designing and Doing Research
• Understanding and Interpreting Forensic Evidence
• Foundations of Security and Crime Science
• Law and Expert Evidence
• Dissertation

Optional modules

Students choose three of the following optional modules:

• Case Assessment and Interpretation for Forensic Scientists
• Fundamentals of Molecular Biology
• Information Security Management
• Forensic Anthropology
• Forensic Osteology
• Forensic Geoscience
• Frontiers in Experimental Physical Chemistry
• Judgment and Decision Making
• Practices of Crime Scene Investigation and Expert Testimony
• Structural Methods in Modern Chemistry
• Introduction to Cybersecurity
• Advanced Forensic Anthropology

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical exercises and statistical and computer classes. Assessment is through coursework, examination and the dissertation.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Relevant disciplines will generally include science subjects, for example chemistry, biology, physics, engineering or computer science; psychology, archaeology or geography. Alternatively candidates may qualify for entry if they can offer five or more years of relevant professional experience (for example in the police service, or with a forensic science provider).

UCL Security and Crime Science is offering up to 14 bursary scholarships of between £2,500 and £10,000 to outstanding applicants who have been offered places on one of our MSc programmes.