Masters Degrees (Forensic Medicine)

Forensic dentists are required in all countries to provide dental expertise to courts and legal systems. Dentists wishing to work in this field often find it difficult to gain the necessary skills.

This course addresses those aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in courts and have the most relevance to forensic odontology internationally.

Why study Forensic Odontology at Dundee?

Internationally, there are few opportunities for dentists to gain expertise in forensic odontology in a structured manner from a University with a dental school and an active forensic medicine department.

As a student in Forensic Odontology you will work closely with other postgraduate students in Forensic Medicine, Forensic Science and Forensic Toxicology. You will develop a deep understanding of the role of other forensic disciplines and identify when, where and how forensic odontology links with the wider forensic community. This provides a unique multi-disciplinary nature to the course.

What's so good about Forensic Odontology at Dundee?

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology. The programme will enable graduates to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills in forensic odontology and research. Uniquely, they will learn interdisciplinary skills that are essential for dealing with forensic issues in real life.

Aims of the course?

The aim of the course is to provide dentists with a professional qualification that delivers core knowledge, experience and intellectual skills in forensic odontology, forensic medicine, science and research.

Teaching & Assessment

The course will be taught by experienced practitioners based at Centre for Forensic & Legal Medicine at the University of Dundee with guest tutors further enhancing the student experience. Research projects will be supervised by experienced researchers.

How you will be taught

A blended approach to teaching is adopted to enable you to learn in a variety of ways. Methods of teaching include small group seminars, virtual learning environment (Blackboard) based case scenarios, lectures, guided self-directed learning, demonstrations and observation in a working forensic mortuary.

What you will study

The course consists of four taught modules:

Forensic Odontology (taught module) - topics include:
Dental Identification
Disaster Victim Identification
Age estimation from dental sources
Dental report writing and giving evidence
Detailed anatomy and development of teeth and oral structures
Bite mark identification
Critical appraisal of literature
Practical experience in mortuary
Bite mark analysis
Research dissertation

You will study 5 modules:

Forensic Odontology
Forensic Odontology Research Project
Bite Mark Analysis
Forensic Medicine
Forensic Science

How you will be assessed

There are a wide range of assessment methods within each module including: written assignments, oral presentations and computer aided assessment exercises.

Careers

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology.

The programme will enable graduates to acquire the knowledge, understanding and skills in those aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in courts and have the most relevance to forensic odontology internationally.

The interdisciplinary aspect, and the focus on the important aspects of forensic odontology will ensure that students are in a position to contribute to forensic service provision in their region/country.

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Forensic dentists are required in all countries to provide dental expertise to courts and legal systems. Dentists wishing to work in this field often find it difficult to gain the necessary skills. This 1 year course addresses those aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in courts and have the most relevance to forensic odontology internationally.

Why study this course at Dundee?

Internationally, there are few opportunities for dentists to gain expertise in forensic odontology in a structured manner from a University with a dental school and an active forensic medicine department.

As a student in Forensic Odontology you will work closely with other postgraduate students in Forensic Medicine, Forensic Science and Forensic Toxicology. You will develop a deep understanding of the role of other forensic disciplines and identify when, where and how forensic odontology links with the wider forensic community. This provides a unique multi-disciplinary nature to the course.

What is so good about this course?

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology. The programme will enable graduates to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills in forensic odontology and research. Uniquely, they will learn interdisciplinary skills that are essential for dealing with forensic issues in real life.

Who should study this course?

This course is designed for dentists wishing to work in Forensic Odontology.

Aims of the course?

The aim of the course is to provide dentists with a professional qualification that delivers core knowledge, experience and intellectual skills in forensic odontology, forensic medicine, science and research.

Teaching & Assessment

How you will be taught

A blended approach to teaching is adopted to enable you to learn in a variety of ways. Methods of teaching include seminars, case scenarios, lectures, guided self-directed learning, demonstrations and observation in a working forensic mortuary.

How you will be assessed

There are a wide range of assessment methods within each module including: written assignments, oral presentations and computer aided assessment exercises.

What you will study

Topics covered include:

Dental Identification
Disaster Victim Identification
Age estimation from dental sources
Dental report writing and giving evidence
Detailed anatomy and development of teeth and oral structures
Bite mark identification
Critical appraisal of literature
Practical experience in mortuary
Research dissertation

You will study 4 modules:

Forensic Odontology
Forensic Odontology Research Project
Forensic Medicine
Forensic Science

Employability

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology.

You will gain:

Skills, knowledge and experience in aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in course.
A deep understanding of the role of other forensic disciplines, resulting in in-depth knowledge of where and how forensic odontology links with the wider forensic community.
The necessary skills to plan, execute and write-up a research project.

The interdisciplinary aspect of this course, and the focus on the important aspects of forensic odontology will ensure that you are in a position to contribute to forensic service provision in your region/country.

Please note that acceptance to the course does not entitle you to work as a dentist in the UK, either during the course or after graduation.

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The longest running, accredited programme of its type in England - delivered by leading forensic researchers. Students gain knowledge of the forensic process and analytical techniques used in crime investigation. Exciting opportunities for specialist research projects in accredited laboratories around the world are available. This programme leads to further study opportunities (e.g. PhD) or careers in forensic science.

Key benefits

- Programme fully accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

- A well established and highly respected forensic science programme with contributions from practising forensic scientists who are experts in their field.

- The Department has a strategic alliance with the Metropolitan Police Forensic Services Directorate and links to many Forensic Science and Drug testing laboratories in the UK, EU and worldwide.

- Opportunities for integrated training placements in forensic laboratories mentioned above.

- Exposure to cutting edge technology and methodology at the forefront of forensic science research and development.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/forensic-science-msc-mres-pg-dip-pg-cert.aspx

Course detail

- Description-

Forensic science covers a wide range of disciplines, most of which are based on chemistry and biology. As their careers progress, forensic scientists often develop specialisms but a broad knowledge of forensic science is a prerequisite. Studying here you will benefit from a programme devised and delivered by internationally leading researchers, and recognised forensic providers including our accredited DNA analysis at King’s and Drug Control Centre testing laboratories here at King’s Forensics.

A particular strength of the programme is the contribution from many forensic practitioners, enabling you to share in their expertise and experience. We also collaborate closely with the Metropolitan Police Forensic Services Directorate in both teaching and research. The course at King’s College London is aimed at those wishing to pursue careers in forensic science. It is not intended for those wishing to pursue careers in forensic pathology, forensic psychiatry or forensic odontology. These professions require training in medicine or dentistry.

- Course purpose -

To provide knowledge and understanding of the forensic process and of the analytical techniques (particularly chemistry and biology) used in the investigation of crime. For those wishing to pursue a career in forensic science or a related subject.

- Course format and assessment -

Lectures, workshops and practical classes.

Each module assessed by examination, MCQ assessment, coursework (different for each module)

Project assessed by literature review, journal article, poster presentation and mini-viva.

Extended project assessed by literature review, poster presentation and seminar.

Career prospects

Most of our students go on to work in the forensic science sector with forensic service providers within the UK, European and International field being the major employers. Others have taken employment with the Metropolitan Police or crime scene departments of other police forces. Many of our Canadian graduates now work for the RCMP or the Toronto Centre for Forensic Sciences. Some of our students go on to do a PhD either at King's College London or other universities across the country.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

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The MSc Forensic Anthropology is designed to equip students with the skills necessary for the analysis and identification of human skeletal remains. The one-year degree is uniquely designed for students who already hold a degree in a relevant biomedical science and wish to pursue further study in Forensic Anthropology.

Why study Forensic Anthropology at Dundee?

Forensic anthropology is the analysis of human remains for the medico-legal purpose of establishing identity. The discipline has adopted a pivotal role in UK and International investigations in cases of inter-personal violence and homicide, repatriation, mass disasters and war crimes.

Our course provides you with training in dedicated laboratory areas with exclusive access to the unique skeletal collections in the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identfication (CAHID). The programme offers a unique mix of theoretical subject matter combined with hands on practical experience which is delivered by case active academic staff who are world leaders in the field.

Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification

This course is taught within Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID). The award winning staff of CAHID are amongst the most experienced in the UK in the fields of human identification, forensic anthropology, cranio-facial reconstruction and the study of the human body. The Centre is regularly contacted for advice and input in high-profile forensic cases both at home and abroad. The cases in which staff have involvement are reflected in much of the research undertaken by the Centre, enabling it to maintain a high profile within the forensic community.

The Centre was awarded a prestigious Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher Education in November 2013. Presented in recognition of 'world class excellence', the Queen's Anniversary Prizes are among the most highly-regarded awards for the UK's universities and colleges.

Top 10 reasons to study Forensic Anthropology at Dundee

Only institution in the UK to offer a career progression pathway in Forensic Anthropology
Opportunity to review forensic case work undertaken by CAHID staff
Teaching by world leading forensic practitioners
Access to several unique skeletal collections
Opportunity to act as an expert witness in simulated courtroom exercises
We teach and train towards RAI accreditation standards following the approved Forensic Anthropology curriculum
Multidisciplinary approach with excellent links across subject boundaries
Access to cases from CAHID's virtual anthropology communication service
Regular programme of seminars delivered by invited speakers from the UK and abroad
Diversity of career opportunities – our graduates work in a variety of related fields

Teaching & Assessment

This course is taught by a team based in the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID). Specialist teaching is undertaken by case-active forensic practitioners. The cases in which our staff have involvement are reflected in much of the research undertaken by the Centre, enabling it to maintain a high profile within the forensic community. In turn, this research feeds into our teaching.

The course starts in September each year and lasts for 12 months on a full time basis.

How you will be taught

The programme will be taught through a combination of face-to-face lectures and on-line learning resources as well as a large practical involving direct examination of the adult human skeleton.

Course Structure

This is a one year full time taught Masters programme in which all modules are compulsory. The research dissertation can be in the form of original laboratory research in an area pertinent to anatomy and forensic anthropology.

- Forensic Osteology (20 Credits)
- Peri and Post mortem processes (20 credits)
- Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) training (20 credits)
- Research Methods (20 credits)
- Forensic Human Identification (20 credits)
- Forensic Science and the Law (20 credits)
- Developmental Juvenile Osteology (20 credits)
- Research Project (60 credits)

How you will be assessed

Assessments will take the form of in-course essays, paper appraisal and presentation exercises in addition to final degree examinations and MSc research dissertation.

Careers

There is a significant requirement for anatomically-trained forensic anthropologists who are competent in dealing with both soft and hard tissues in order to fulfil the requirements of DVI deployment. This course will greatly increase the professional employment characteristics of any student undertaking it who seeks a career in forensic anthropology, forensic osteology or DVI.

Where are our graduates now?

Previous graduates in Forensic Anthropology have progressed to become teachers and researchers in the field with some going on to provide their skills and services on both the national and international forensic front.

Some of our graduates have gone on to pursue careers in biomedical research, scene of crime analysis, forensic science, human biology and osteological research.

Many have chosen to enter a degree in medicine or dentistry and have found that the skills they have acquired in Forensic Anthropology stand them in good stead, particularly with regards to radiology, paediatrics, gerontology and orthopaedics.

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There is a national and international need for professionals who can apply a critical and scientific approach to their forensic practice, and who want to have a broad understanding of the various interrelated disciplines of forensic medicine and science. This programme answers that need and provides theoretical and practical knowledge of the forensic medical sciences, and will train you to critically evaluate and interpret forensic medical and scientific evidence.

The unprecedented programme will cover a wide range specialist topics under the umbrella of the forensic medical sciences, coupled with the opportunity to carry out research in a specialist area.

We also offer you the opportunity to further your career prospects within your own professional specialty. This programme should be regarded as an intermediate level for pathologists and forensic medical examiners who will be expected to progress to specialist exit level exams, through their respective academic colleges.

Programme outline
Core modules:

Clinical Aspects of Forensic Medicine (two modules)
Forensic Pathology (two modules)
Module Options:

Legal and Ethical Issues Relevant to Forensic Medicine and Science
Forensic Toxicology I and II
Forensic Identification I and II.
Research project

Laboratory-based or a critical dissertation (four modules)

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This Masters course will open the door to a fascinating and fast-moving sector of analytical science that will build on your previous undergraduate studies, in chemistry, biology or other appropriate science courses. You will gain knowledge and scientific skills that are directly applicable to the field of forensic science, with prospects of employment in forensic science laboratories as well as in other analytical science laboratories.

The course involves a unique combination of forensic chemistry and forensic biology, covering subjects such as trace evidence, toxicology and DNA analysis. Once you have covered the underlying principles of both areas, you can then specialise in your chosen field for your MSc research project.

The course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, which enhances its credibility and currency among potential employers.

This course can also be taken part time - for more information, please view this web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/forensic-science-dtpfrs6/

Learn From The Best

Our teaching team are active researchers who routinely incorporate their expertise and enthusiasm into their teaching. Many of the staff have worked in forensic science laboratories and have been involved in high profile cases such as the Stephen Lawrence, Joanna Yeates, Suffolk strangler and Jigsaw murder cases. Their areas of research include toxicology, the analysis of fibres and their transfer and persistence and the analysis of ancient DNA.

Academic staff include former forensic biologists, forensic toxicologists, and forensic fibre experts. They continue to maintain close links with the industry including the police and practising forensic scientists. Many of them are well-established within professional forensic science societies and organisations, which directly inform policy and practices within the field.

Teaching And Assessment

Our teaching will give you a solid grounding in all the technical areas that are key to forensic science, while simultaneously developing the higher level of independent thinking and advanced interpretation that is expected at Masters level. To support your learning journey, many of the staff have an ‘open door’ policy which makes it easy to ask questions; it’s also possible to book appointments with them so that you can work through queries about lab work, concepts and theories, and any other aspects of the subject.

We use different types of assessments: some will contribute to your final grade while others will be used to provide you with guidance on your progress and reinforce your learning. You can expect both your tutors and your peers to provide useful comments and feedback throughout the course.

Module Overview
AP0700 - Graduate Science Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0703 - Subject Exploration (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0708 - Applied Sciences Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)
AP0723 - Practices & Procedures in Forensic Science (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0724 - Forensic Toxicology & Drugs of Abuse (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0725 - Criminalistics (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0726 - Forensic Genetics (Core, 20 Credits)

Learning Environment

You will have access to a dedicated crime scene house to enable you to examine simulated crime scenes. Students can also access Return to Scene (R2S) software which provides a 360 degree interactive scan of a crime scene allowing you to perform further analysis in detail after you have left the scene. Northumbria University has also invested heavily in an impressive suite of analytical equipment allowing you to gain first-hand experience of the techniques used in operational laboratories.

We use a range of technologies to enhance your learning, with tools including web-based self-guided exercises, online tests with feedback, and electronic discussion boards. These tools support and extend the material that is delivered during lectures.

You will have 24/7 term-time access to Northumbria’s library, which was ranked #2 in the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey for 2015 and has been accredited by the UK Government for Customer Service Excellence since 2010.

Research-Rich Learning

We host the Northumbria University Centre for Forensic Science and our research directly impacts on what and how you learn. Northumbria is helping to push the frontiers of knowledge in areas such as:
-Forensic fibre comparisons using statistical and chemometric approaches
-DNA profiling in contexts such as injuries to children and poaching of wildlife
-Human genetic and phenotypic variation
-Analytical toxicology

As part of the course, you will undertake a Masters project that will require you to evaluate relevant literature as well as to develop your ideas within the context of existing research. The project will involve information retrieval, critical appraisal, presentation of aims and strategy, development of advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, the discussion and interpretation of results, and the composition of a written dissertation. Each project will be aligned to an active area of research that is specific to an academic member of staff.

Give Your Career An Edge

This course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. This reflects the relevance and rigour of the curriculum, and provides assurance of workplace-ready knowledge and application.

The focus on practical laboratory work, combined with the mix of group work, independent learning and professional practice, will help ensure that you develop skills that are transferable to a range of careers and disciplines.

Throughout your time at Northumbria we will prompt you to reflect on your self-development through the Higher Education Achievement Report process. We will also encourage you to take advantage of the services of our Careers and Employment Service such as CV advice and interview preparation.

Your Future

Forensic science has gained a high profile through TV dramas and, in the years ahead the sector is likely to be further transformed by technological advances in a number of fields. With an MSc Forensic Science you will be well-placed to take up a fascinating and rewarding role in forensic science laboratories.

What’s more, by developing the attributes of a Masters student, including the ability to solve complex problems, think critically, and work effectively with others and on your own, you will enhance your employability in all sectors of the analytical science industry. You will also be well equipped to pursue further studies at PhD level.

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Why this course?

The MSc in Forensic Science is the UK’s longest established forensic science course. It'll allow you to qualify as a court-going forensic scientist, as well as preparing you for many alternative careers that require problem-solving and analysis.

You’ll graduate with relevant practical skills combined with analytical and investigative thinking.

See the website https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduatetaught/forensicscience/

You’ll study:

- crime investigation and legal processes
- criminalistics (eg shoe marks)
- forensic chemistry (fires, explosives, glass, paint)
- toxicology and drugs of abuse (cannabis, heroin cocaine etc)
- forensic biology (body fluid analysis, blood pattern interpretation)
- trace evidence and fibre examination
- questioned documents
- interpretation of evidence

You’ll become an effective analyst, develop strong written and verbal communication skills and develop knowledge of:
- common separation techniques (thin layer, HPLC and gas chromatography)
- modern spectroscopic methods (infra-red, ultraviolet-visible and fluorescence)
- DNA profiling
- crime scene investigation


MSc students will undertake a three-month project.

The eight-month Postgraduate Diploma course is similar to the MSc, but does not include the three-month project.

Facilities

Teaching takes place in the Centre for Forensic Science. It’s a modern purpose-built laboratory for practical forensic training, designed and equipped for ultra-clean working for the avoidance of cross contamination.

Teaching staff

Staff are experienced researchers in forensic science who are internationally recognised. The Centre for Forensic Science offers a unique learning experience, combining ‘case-based’ learning with research-led teaching.

- Practitioner Lecture Series
This course offers the unique experience of gaining first-hand accounts of forensics in action through our practitioner and forensic related professionals lecture series.

Well renowned practitioners and professionals providing these lectures include:
- Professor Peter Gill, Professor of Forensic Science, University of Oslo
- PD Dr rer nat Marielle Vennemann, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Münster
- Dr Cerys Rees, Fellow, CB Analysis and Attribution, DSTL
- Dr John Jenner, Principal Toxicologist, DSTL
- Ciara Holland, Consultant Fire Investigator at BRE (Building Research Establishment Global Ltd)
- Jim Govan a retired Firearm Examiner at the Scottish Policing Authority and Terminal Ballistic Consultant to Deer Commission Scotland (now Scottish Natural Heritage)
- Alan Gall, Former Chief Superintendent and Divisional Commander, Strathclyde Police
- Graham Cairns, Former Chief Superintendent and Divisional Commander, Strathclyde Police

Accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences is a professional body with members in over 60 countries and is one of the oldest and largest forensic associations in the world.

Its aim is to set high educational standards through the review and accreditation of courses that contain forensic science.

Additional MSc requirements

- IELTS 6.5 is required for all non-English speakers
- entry is competitive and students are selected on the basis of academic ability and previous experience
- final selection decisions are made by the academic selector and successful applicants will be notified
- in the course of forensic examinations, there is a potential for exposure to body fluids from hepatitis sufferers and prospective students should consider hepatitis immunisation (this takes from four to six months to be effective)

Pre-Masters preparation course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course for international students (non EU/UK) who do not meet the entry requirements for a Masters degree at University of Strathclyde. The Pre-Masters programme provides progression to a number of degree options.

To find out more about the courses and opportunities on offer visit isc.strath.ac.uk or call today on +44 (0) 1273 339333 and discuss your education future. You can also complete the online application form. To ask a question please fill in the enquiry form and talk to one of our multi-lingual Student Enrolment Advisers today.

Assessment

Assessment consists of written submission, practical work assessments and oral presentations. Practical work is continually assessed and counts towards the award of the degree.

The award of MSc is based upon 180 credits, while the award of PgDip is based upon 120 credits.

Careers

Most forensic scientists in the UK are employed by the police, government bodies such as Centre for Applied Science and Technology (CAST) and private companies who provide forensic science services to the police.

Most of the work is laboratory-based but experienced forensic scientists may have to attend crime scenes and give evidence in court.

How much will I earn?

Starting salaries are around £20,000 a year and can increase to £35,000 with experience. Senior forensic scientists can earn £45,000 or more*

*information is intended only as a guide.

Find information on Scholarships here http://www.strath.ac.uk/search/scholarships/index.jsp

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Overview

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society and approved by the Health Professional Council.

The Professional (practitioner) Doctorate Forensic Psychology aims to educate and train psychology graduates to work with victims and/or offenders under the supervision of registered forensic psychologists and to attain the highest standards of research and practice. In collaboration with Institute of Mental Health (IMH), the course aims to develop skills such as assessment, management, intervention, treatment and evaluation.

A Top-up Doctorate in Forensic Psychology (DForenPsy) is also available to allow postgraduate psychologists already holding a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited MSc Criminological/Forensic/Investigative Psychology to obtain a doctorate through applying their knowledge to practice with victims or offenders.

Academic Team

Professor Kevin Browne, Professor of Forensic Psychology and Child Health, Director of the Centre for Family and Forensic Psychology and Director of the D.Foren.Psy. Programme
Dr Vince Egan, Associate Professor, Forensic Psychology Practice, Year 3 Director
Dr Simon Duff, Lecturer in Forensic Psychology Practice, Year 2 Director
Dr Shihning Chou, Lecturer in Forensic Psychology Practice, Year 1 Director

Year 1

In the first year you will study a masters programme consisting of eight modules. On successful completion of the masters component, you may progress on to the doctorate component or exit with an MSc Criminological Psychology.

Years 2 and 3

During the doctorate component, you will apply your knowledge to practice while on placement in forensic environments. You will experience interventions with children and adults in community and secure settings and develop skills and competency in four core areas:

--conducting psychological applications and interventions
--case studies, research and evaluation
--communicating knowledge to other professionals
--training other professionals in psychological skills and methods

At the end of the course, you will submit a thesis on your research and practice in a specific area of forensic psychology.

Modules

In the first year you will study a masters programme consisting of eight modules:

--Theories of Criminal Behaviour
--Forensic Child Psychology
--Forensic Mental Health
--Law and Criminal Justice
--Forensic Organisational Psychology
--Forensic Practice Interventions
--Research Methods and Analyses
--Research Project

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Following the development of the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine (FFLM) within the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), Lancashire Law School at UCLan offers a Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic and Legal Medicine, as a part-time course over two years, with the option to do an MA or LLM in the third year. This exciting new course has also been designed to be a preparatory course for Membership of the Faculty (MFFLM). As well as being suitable for forensic physicians, sexual assault examiners, psychiatrists and paediatricians, it will also be suitable for forensic nurses, lawyers and forensic scientists

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The aims of the programme are to provide you with thorough knowledge and practical skills in the field of forensic odontology. While no single case is alike and many cases are difficult to prepare for, the programme provides a sound and scientific foundation on which you can rely in your future career. The KU Leuven Master’s Programme of Forensic Odontology is one of the few programmes of its kind in the world. 

What is the Master of Forensic Odontoly all about?

The full-time Master of Forensic Odontology programme offers holders of a degree in dentistry the opportunity to specialise in the multifaceted field of forensic odontology. The MSc in

Forensic Odontology stresses multidisciplinary interaction with forensic medicine, judicial bodies, and insurance companies, and aims to train dentists and oral physicians in this fascinating discipline and its legal aspects. With its theoretical courses, self-study, preclinics, clinical demonstrations,

laboratory work, and a research-based thesis, the one-year MSc in Forensic Odontology

is the ideal stepping stone to this exciting new profession. 

Objectives

The academic programme, spread over one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study (60 ECTS in total) involves theory-based courses, self-study, pre-clinics and demonstrations in the field of forensic dentistry (part-time study: only for students who have a dental practice in Belgium).

In particular, the programme will provide insight into specialty techniques and their scientific background in forensic odontology.

The advanced Master's programme in Forensic Odontology is distinguished from the initial Master's programme by its evidence-based and research-oriented teaching, its multidisciplinary and integrated case analysis and its comprehensive approach to identification.

The programme also stress the multidisciplinary interaction between forensic medicine, judicial bodies, insurance companies, etc. Graduates will have the ability to critically engage the scientific literature, understand experimental methodologies, carry out statistical analysis and interpret results. Students will also participate in clinical and laboratory-based research as part of the advanced Master's curriculum.

This programme can be combined with the PhD, which entails at least four years of training.

Career perpectives

The demand for forensic dental experts in the legal world is rising. Graduates will be prepared to assist in the identification of victims or suspected criminals based on forensic evidence. Forensic dentistry plays an important yet underdeveloped role in the Belgian legal world. For dental professionals seeking careers in forensic odontology, this programme is extremely useful.

Careers as forensic odontologist

The forensic odontology work entails three major aspects: human identification, dental age estimation and bite mark analysis. Forensic odontologists are also actively involved in dental fraud and litigation cases.

Careers as scientific researcher

The master’s programme can serve as a valuable preparation year when you are aspiring to go on to doctoral studies in forensic odontology. Time spent in the master’s programme can count toward your PhD training programme, as long as the topic of your doctoral dissertation builds on the successful research conducted as part of your master’s thesis. 

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Overview

The MSc (by research) Forensic and Criminological Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). At successful completion, it fulfils Stage I of the BPS professional training in forensic psychology and therefore gives eligibility to enter Stage II of the BPS Diploma or at a later date, apply for the Top up Doctorate in Forensic Psychology at The University of Nottingham.

Course structure

The course provides comprehensive knowledge in theory and evidence based practice with victims and offenders. It consists of six theoretical modules and a research project/dissertation incorporating research methods training equivalent to two 10-credit taught modules. The course can be completed over one year full-time or two years part time.

The teaching is delivered through workshops led by experts and practicing clinicians Tuesday to Thursday each week during term time (36 weeks). The programme is assessed by means of continuous assessment related to each module.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold a BPS accredited 1st or 2nd class honours degree in a psychology programme (single or joint honours) or equivalent conferring eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBCM) of the BPS. Experience in a forensic setting is beneficial but not essential for MSc applications.

*It is expected that those who apply for the MSc programme only will graduate with the MSc qualification at the end of the year.

Modules

The course consists of six theoretical modules and a research project/dissertation incorporating research methods training equivalent to two 10-credit taught modules.

--Theories of Criminal Behaviour
--Forensic Child Psychology
--Forensic Mental Health
--Law and Criminal Justice
--Forensic Organisational Psychology
--Forensic Practice Interventions

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The course is a flexible evidence-based postgraduate course in contemporary advanced forensic mental health practice and research that is open to students from a multidisciplinary and multiagency background.

The course is suitable for clinical or social care staff who are currently employed in, or who desire to be employed in, a forensic setting or those settings where service users have forensic mental health needs.

This would include settings such as:
-Secure hospitals
-Prisons
-Ministry of Justice
-Probation
-Community-based services for mentally disordered offenders
-Private/independent secure sector providers

The course would also be suitable for staff currently employed in settings where service users present with complex mental health/psychological needs with risk behaviours or vulnerabilities that place them at risk of contact with the criminal justice system or forensic mental health services.

This would include settings such as:
-Patient intensive care units
-Early intervention services
-Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) inpatient services
-Substance misuse services
-Learning disability services

Staff not holding a professional qualification may be eligible to apply but will need to seek advice from the Programme Director as regards the suitability of the course.

The course aims to be skills-based, so that students return to services with demonstrable skills to meet service objectives.

The part-time course will be run on a part-time modular basis with four units per year for the first two years.

The full-time course will feature eight units from September to May and a dissertation from June to September.

Teaching will be a blend of face-to-face teaching, e-learning and supervised clinical practice. The third year will be dedicated to completion of the Masters dissertation under close supervision from University staff.

The course is designed to be flexible, to enable students to balance academic work with existing workplace demands. Students can also choose one optional unit within the course.

Subject to availability these include:
-Structured family interventions for psychosis
-Developing practice and managing change

Teaching sessions will be prepared and presented by leading authorities in the field of forensic mental health. We have a number of affiliated staff who are leading authorities in forensic and related mental health issues including Professor Jenny Shaw, Professor Louis Appleby, Dr Caroline Logan, Dr Jane Senior, Dr Roger Webb and Dr Charlotte Lennox.

There will be an initial induction at the commencement of the course, which is generally two-days. Following this, the course requires one day per week dedication for the part-time pathway, and two days per week full-time during term-time, which will involve periodic attendance at University.

In order to achieve the practical-skills outcomes associated with some course units, the equivalent of one day per week in practice will be required.

Students are required to identify a suitable practice supervisor/mentor to oversee and assess the clinical and/or practice work required for the course units.

Full-time students will require access to a suitable clinical or similar placement.

Career opportunities

The course will equip students with the knowledge and skills to deliver quality evidence based forensic related mental health practice. This knowledge and the skills required will better enable students to lead and initiate service development work, which will support career development. The course provides numerous career opportunities within forensic and related services. Those completing the programme will be in an excellent position to apply for advanced practice positions, senior clinical roles, research opportunities and senior management positions in services based in a variety of services including hospitals, prison and/or the community.

Those completing the masters will be encouraged to undertake further PhD studies at the University and they will be assisted in applying for research positions and research funding.

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Overview

The aim of the top-up programme is to allow postgraduate psychologists already holding a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited MSc Criminological/Forensic/Investigative Psychology to obtain a doctorate through applying their knowledge to practice with victims or offenders.

These individuals will be eligible to fast track onto the two-year doctorate component of the full DForenPsy course.

Applications for the top-up doctorate are accepted throughout the year with a closing date of 31 March. Our courses start in September each year.

This programme is approved by the Health Professions Council (HPC) and accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and confers eligibility to apply for HPC registration and BPS chartered membership respectively.

Those applicants working in a forensic setting may use this setting as a placement, if appropriate.

Course details

During the doctorate component, you will apply your knowledge to practice while on placement in forensic environments. You will experience interventions with children and adults in community and secure settings and develop skills and competency in four core areas:

--conducting psychological applications and interventions
--case studies, research and evaluation
--communicating knowledge to other professionals
--training other professionals in psychological skills and methods

At the end of the course, you will submit a thesis on your research and practice in a specific area of forensic psychology.

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The master's degree offers students the chance to specialise in the ambit of forensics. It has the following objectives:
-To provide students with advanced multidisciplinary scientific training in the use of forensics in the fields of chemistry, physics, genetics and statistics so that they receive specialised training in a wide range of scientific disciplines involved in the scientific analysis of evidence from crime scenes or of events or circumstances that are subject to legal proceedings. On completing this training, students will have the knowledge and skills to become members of multidisciplinary teams in their future professional careers.
-To enable students to develop the skills need to interpret evidence from crime scenes using their knowledge of the chemical, physical and biological foundations of the principal techniques in forensic analysis.
-To produce professionals with the competencies needed to carry out evaluations, reports or appraisals for different public and private organisations or to apply their knowledge in laboratories that study problems related to forensic practice.

Student Profile

The master's degree is aimed at students with official university qualifications in experimental sciences, life sciences and related technologies or bachelor's degrees Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Physics, Geology, Medicine, Veterinary, Pharmacy, Environmental Sciences, Food Science and Technology or Engineering.

The master's degree is also aimed at forensic professionals who wish to study a certain aspect of the discipline in greater depth.

Career Opportunities

Graduates in University Master's Degree in Forensic Genetics, Physics and Chemistry are capable of working in:
-State and regional government civil service
-Scientific police units
-Customs laboratories
-Laboratories (official, private, accredited)
-Consultancy firms
-Self-employment (independent professional practice)

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About the course

This course is aimed at emergency care professionals who want to develop their expertise. You’ll learn new skills to help you manage a service and also how to teach others. We have an international reputation for research in the field of pre-hospital and emergency care.

Your career

We can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to understand and improve health services: analytical skills, critical thinking and in-depth knowledge of your discipline. We offer postgraduate courses for health and social care professionals, managers and anyone planning a career in health services research.

Our graduates work in public health, the private sector, health services management, and health and social care, all over the world. They also go on to further public health training or academic research.

An international academic community

As one of the largest multi-disciplinary schools of public health and health services research in the UK, ScHARR is a rich academic community. You will be taught by world-leading experts in health economics, public health sciences, the sociology of health, health psychology, decision analysis, management sciences, epidemiology, medical statistics and information science. They include members of The Academy of Medical Sciences, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and the Royal Society of Public Health. The 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) rates us fourth in the UK for research power.

Our staff and students come from all over the world and offer international perspectives to all our courses.

Flexible study routes

We offer both traditional campus-based and online courses. Our high quality online courses are taught by the same expert academic staff who teach our courses in Sheffield and offer an alternative to coming to the UK. Guided by our staff, you can study at a pace that suits your personal circumstances. This can be an effective route for those who need to continue to work while they study. Postgraduate certificates and diplomas are also available.
You can also study individual modules as Continuing Professional Development (CPD). See the ScHARR web pages for details of available modules. For LBR and CPD information, visit: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/hsccpd

Facilities

You’ll have 24/7 access to library and computing facilities. We provide specialist information and library services in our information resources section.

Core modules

Management Theory and Practice; Evidence-Based Emergency Medicine and Research; An Introduction to UK Emergency Medicine; Research Methods for Emergency Medicine; Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules

Choices include: Observation and Ambulatory Medicine; Paediatric Emergency Medicine; Pre-Hospital Emergency, Event and Expedition Medicine; Musculo-skeletal Emergency Medicine; Sedation in Emergency Medicine; Emergency Medicine Informatics; Medicolegal and Forensic Emergency Medicine; Systematically Reviewing the Research Literature; Introduction to Statistics and Critical Appraisal; Further Statistics for Health Science Researchers.

Teaching and assessment

The course is a mixture of online learning, independent study and online clinical demonstrations. You’re assessed on coursework and project work.

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