Masters Degrees (Forensic Toxicology)

This MSc programme is designed to provide students with an in-depth working knowledge of the principles and practice of forensic toxicology. The major strength of this programme is that students study within an operational ISO 17025 accredited forensic toxicology laboratory and are taught by practising forensic toxicologists. This programme will be of particular interest to those interested in pursuing or furthering careers in forensic toxicology as court-reporting scientists, laboratory scientists or academics. This programme also enables graduates to gain experience in research before applying to a doctoral programme.

Why this programme

◾We are the longest established forensic toxicology MSc in the UK, and the only programme in the UK delivered by practising forensic toxicologists in an operational ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
◾Our staff are regularly called to court to give evidence as expert witnesses. You will have the opportunity to visit a Scottish court in session and develop skills as an expert witness though lectures and practical sessions, including a moot court exercise.
◾Students can learn first-hand within a unit with one of the largest forensic toxicology laboratories. No other Universities offering a taught Forensic Toxicology degree have an associated laboratory.
◾Research and teaching laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment rivalling many forensic toxicology service laboratories in the UK.
◾The laboratories are accredited to ISO/IEC17025 standard with UKAS. They are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and you will have access to a variety of instruments including GC/MS, GC-HS, HPLC, LC/MS and AAS.
◾Direct link with our doctoral research programme.
◾Students are introduced to ISO17025 accreditation and Quality Management Systems.
◾Students will have the opportunity to attend lectures for the Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences and the Scottish Medico-Legal Society. This grants you exposure to experts from a wide range of forensic and legal disciplines including scientists, lawyers and procurators fiscal.

Programme structure

Courses
◾Principles of forensic toxicology
◾Laboratory techniques in forensic toxicology
◾Advanced instrumentation
◾Case review and interpretation
◾Research and laboratory management
◾Project.

Career prospects

This programme will prepare you for a post in a forensic toxicology laboratory both in the UK and overseas. Many of our graduates find or return to forensic work or undertake a PhD.

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Toxicology, the study of drugs and poisons, is an expanding area of study that offers graduates a wide range of career options. On this course you'll study the signs and symptoms associated with the use of common drugs and poisons, basic pharmacology, mechanisms of drug/poison action, drug metabolism and drug elimination from the body. In addition to the more traditional areas of forensic toxicology, the course will introduce you to aspects of environmental forensic science where toxicology may be involved.

The course is delivered by experienced forensic toxicologists and forensic practitioners with an emphasis on professional capabilities. Wherever possible the study will be case lead. Our objective is to provide excellent, theoretically informed, science-based learning as well as research skills.

Hear from Gina Ross, a current student, referring to the course leader, Professor David Ossleton: "Thank you for everything you have done this year (as well as inspiring me to take toxicology when I was an undergraduate here). You have exceeded my expectations and helped me to improve not just my toxicological skills but my confidence in myself. I am so glad that I took the MSc and I look forward to seeing you in the future."

Core units:
Forensic Science
Forensic Toxicology
Laboratory & Research Skills
Extended Research Project.

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MSc Forensic Toxicology combines aspects of analytical chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology that are crucial to the role of the drugs chemist working within a toxicological environment. While the primary focus of this course will be drugs of abuse, the underpinning science and methodologies are equally relevant to a toxicologist analytical chemist working in the pharmaceutical or other related industries.

As a Forensic Toxicologist you may be called to provide evidence in a court of law, training in this important aspect is provided through an Expert Witness module which includes a moot court presentation. In addition to acquiring a sound theoretical understanding of the subject area there is a strong emphasis on developing practical skills throughout the course.

This cumulates in a 60 credit project whereby students have the opportunity to specialise in various areas of drugs toxicology. This course will appeal to graduates from a wide range of disciplines including forensic science, chemistry, biology and other related disciplines.

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION

We will be seeking accreditation from the Royal Society of Chemistry.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

Computing Facilities are available in the general computing suites found within the building and throughout campus. Extensive Resources are available to support your studies provided by Learning & Information Services (LIS) – library and IT staff. You are advised to take advantage of the free training sessions designed to enable you to gain all the skills you need for your research and study.

LIS provide access to a huge range of electronic resources – e-journals and databases, e-books, images and texts.

Course and module materials are not provided in ‘hard copy’ format, however, wherever practicable, lecture notes and/or presentations, seminar materials, assignment briefs and materials and other relevant information and resources are made available in electronic form via eLearn. This is the brand name for the on-line Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that the University uses to support and enhance teaching and learning.

All students can access the eLearn spaces for the course and modules that they are registered for. Once logged into your eLearn area you can access material from the course and all of the modules you are studying without having to log in to each module separately.

The modules are assessed by both coursework and examination. To ensure that you do not have an excessive amount of assessment at any one time, the coursework assessment will take place uniformly throughout the course.

OPPORTUNITIES

The course is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge and understanding to work in forensic toxicology, toxicology and other areas of chemical analysis.

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MSc Forensic Toxicology combines aspects of analytical chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology that are crucial to the role of the drugs chemist working within a toxicological environment. While the primary focus of this course will be drugs of abuse, the underpinning science and methodologies are equally relevant to a toxicologist analytical chemist working in the pharmaceutical or other related industries.

As a Forensic Toxicologist you may be called to provide evidence in a court of law, training in this important aspect is provided through an Expert Witness module which includes a moot court presentation. In addition to acquiring a sound theoretical understanding of the subject area there is a strong emphasis on developing practical skills throughout the course.

This cumulates in a 60 credit project whereby students have the opportunity to specialise in various areas of drugs toxicology. This course will appeal to graduates from a wide range of disciplines including forensic science, chemistry, biology and other related disciplines.

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION

We will be seeking accreditation from the Royal Society of Chemistry.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

Computing Facilities are available in the general computing suites found within the building and throughout campus. Extensive Resources are available to support your studies provided by Learning & Information Services (LIS) – library and IT staff. You are advised to take advantage of the free training sessions designed to enable you to gain all the skills you need for your research and study.

LIS provide access to a huge range of electronic resources – e-journals and databases, e-books, images and texts.

Course and module materials are not provided in ‘hard copy’ format, however, wherever practicable, lecture notes and/or presentations, seminar materials, assignment briefs and materials and other relevant information and resources are made available in electronic form via eLearn. This is the brand name for the on-line Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that the University uses to support and enhance teaching and learning.

All students can access the eLearn spaces for the course and modules that they are registered for. Once logged into your eLearn area you can access material from the course and all of the modules you are studying without having to log in to each module separately.

The modules are assessed by both coursework and examination. To ensure that you do not have an excessive amount of assessment at any one time, the coursework assessment will take place uniformly throughout the course.

OPPORTUNITIES

The course is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge and understanding to work in forensic toxicology, toxicology and other areas of chemical analysis.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Semester 1 of the course is designed to ensure that you have the basic skills needed to obtain an MSc. It is important that you enhance the skills you have that will be of benefit when you gain employment after the course. The main skills that you will enhance will be presentational skills, report writing, independent working and problem solving.

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This course provides postgraduate education in Forensic Science with a further specialisation in Forensic Toxicology. Forensic Science involves the use of scientific techniques and principles to address questions of interest to a court of law. This course provides you with an overview of forensic science in general, following the crime scene to court model. This includes a series of crime scene exercises in our crime scene facilities, covering strategies for crime scene examination and an exploration of techniques associated with crime scene examination.

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The Analytical Toxicology MSc is a unique study programme that integrates theoretical and practical aspects of analytical science with clinical and forensic toxicology. This course will provide you with a detailed knowledge and comprehensive understanding of advanced analytical toxicology and its applications.

Key benefits

• Theory-based study programme developed with the collaboration of both national and international experts in the field of clinical and forensic toxicology.
• Designed for scientists wishing to enter the field of clinical or forensic toxicology, or for clinical and forensic practitioners who want to enhance their existing knowledge and professional experience.
• King's is ranked 7th in the world for Pharmacy & Pharmacology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2017)
• This new course, unique in the UK, integrates theoretical and practical aspects of analytical science with clinical and forensic toxicology.
• Excellent career prospects that include analytical and supervisory roles within government and private institutions.

Description

The Analytical Toxicology MSc has been designed for scientists wishing to enter the field of clinical or forensic toxicology, or for clinical and forensic specialists wanting to develop their existing knowledge and professional experience. This one-year course explores the close connections between clinical and forensic toxicology through a range of modules that includes advanced analytical toxicology, core analytical sciences, biochemical, clinical and forensic toxicology. You will also complete a research project and dissertation related to analytical toxicology.

You will study modules totalling 180 credits throughout the year, with 60 credits coming from the research project and dissertation.

Location

The majority of learning for this degree takes place at the King’s College London Waterloo Campus (Franklin Wilkins Building).

Work placements are at a variety of sites including Cambridgeshire, Surrey, Malvern, Birmingham, and Teddington.

Regulating body

King’s College is regulated by the Higher Education Funding Council for England.

Career prospects

Graduate career paths include analytical and supervisory roles within government and private institutions.

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Aiming for a world-class career? This Master's qualification is all the evidence you’ll need

Australia has an outstanding international reputation in forensics, so if you’re keen to establish yourself as one of the world’s best in your field, this qualification will arm you with the critical investigative and analytical skills you’ll need to gain that next life-changing promotion (and what a job!). 

Part of a collaborative education partnership with the Universities of Florida and Edinburgh, this flexible online course will give you a scientifically competitive advantage, preparing you for an impressive career in a range of sectors, including in forensic labs, drug assessment agencies and in the environmental monitoring sector.

Study a Master of Forensic Studies in Forensic Science (Online) at UC and you will:

• acquire a critical understanding of the investigative and analytical concepts relating to forensic science
• apply your deeper knowledge to the collection, processing and analysis of evidence
• master the skills to be flexible and responsive to the broad range of situations that confront forensic investigators
• know the legal and regulatory requirements of forensics and the those of expert witnesses.

Course Objectives

• Reflect critically on professional forensic practice
• Evaluate developments that contribute to professional forensic practice
• Investigate and analyse problems in forensic science work places and beyond
• Apply forensic methodologies in unfamiliar contexts
• Contribute to the scholarship of forensic science in a professional community
• Plan and execute a forensic research project (preferably in the work place)
• Interpret forensic methodologies and conclusions to non?scientific legal and other audiences
• Integrate and implement solutions using forensic methodologies

Career opportunities

Opportunities exist for Master of Forensic Studies in Forensic Science (Online) graduates in a range of areas, including in:

• forensic laboratories
• forensic and environmental monitoring agencies
• toxicology laboratories
• drug assessment agencies
• forensic pathology
• mortuary laboratories

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The MSc 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.

On this course, you can study a range of specialist areas in analytical and forensic science. It 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. A 60 credit research project of your choice allows you to customise the MSc and specialise in your chosen field.

“Completing this MSc gave me a much more advanced knowledge of analytical instruments and techniques and has been a great help in preparing me for the role that I now have in toxicology. The amount of hands on practical experience in the Masters is much more extensive than in a Bachelors degree and it’s the higher level of practical work that can make the difference. Covering a variety of techniques applied to a wide range of sample types ensures you have an understanding that other graduates will not have, particularly after the completion of your dissertation by spending a considerable amount of time in the lab. The addition of the PRINCE2 qualification also makes you more employable to commercial labs. I have no doubt that without this MSc my chances of gaining a job with a career path would be significantly less.” – Laura Miles, MSc Analytical and Forensic Science graduate.

What You Will Study

You will study the following modules:
- Advanced DNA analysis
- Separation science
- Analytical toxicology
- Interpretation, evalutation and presentation of casework
- Advanced crime scene and evidence analysis
- Project design, management and enterprise
- Laboratory research project

Our tuition offers detailed training in the following areas:

- DNA Analysis
You will gain a thorough understanding of DNA analysis and interpretation techniques. There is practical training in a large range of advanced extraction techniques, quantitation, amplification and electrophoresis of DNA, through simulated case-work using our crime scene house and DNA analysis laboratory.

- Analytical Toxicology and Separation Science
You will gain knowledge of the basis and application of a number of novel analytical and extraction techniques such as chiral chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, solid phase microextraction and derivatisation techniques. You will also receive high level practical training in ion mobility mass spectrometry, GCMS/MS, LCMS/MS and ICP-OES. There is a particular focus on hair as a matrix for forensic toxicological analysis. You will also be fully trained in experimental design and effective method development.

- Major crime scene analysis
You will learn how to effectively process major and specialist crime scenes through our simulation facilities, and will study novel mapping techniques such as 3D scanning and LIDAR as applied to crime scene investigation.

- Expert witness techniques
To improve your employment prospects, you will also learn about the law as it relates to the forensic scientist and their relationship with the police, lawyers and courts, and the role of the expert witness. You will receive training from professional case working forensic scientists in how to draft expert witness statements and how to give testimony in court.

- Data analysis and Prince 2 qualification
For added benefit, there will be guest lectures from eminent analytical scientists and forensic practitioners, and you will be encouraged to observe courtroom proceedings and visit analytical laboratories. You will receive training in advanced data analysis techniques which is very desirable for potential employers. You will even complete a PRINCE 2 foundation certificate as part of this course, which will stand you in good stead for the management of major projects in laboratories. The PRINCE 2 award is a prestigious, internationally recognized qualification. Please note additional fees apply.

- Additional Fees:
There is an additional fee of £1,500 for this course which covers the Prince2 Project Management course and laboratory costs.

Learning and teaching methods

Modules are studied 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 course is available as a one year full time option, or 2 years part time option. All students complete a research project in your chosen area of specialisation.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

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 have even contacted 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.

Work experience

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.

Assessment methods

You will complete 120 credits of taught modules across the course, and an original laboratory research project (60 credits). For this, you will apply and extend your practical skills and knowledge in a key area of analytical or forensic science that interests you.

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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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Our MSc Advanced Forensic Analysis course is designed to give you an advanced understanding of the main areas of forensic science and is unlike any other postgraduate course in forensic science, in that it covers in more depth all of the areas touched on in UWE Bristol's undergraduate courses. There are modules in all three key areas of forensic science: biology, chemistry and crime scene science and we also offer a module covering more advanced aspects of research and statistics. You can base your in-depth research project aspect of the programme at UWE Bristol's Forensic Analysis department, or on placement with one of our partner forensic providers. These include West Technology or Mass Spec Analytical, and local fire services that rely on the analytical skills you'll develop.

Key benefits

A flexible and highly vocational postgraduate programme, accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, for those looking to enhance skills and knowledge to support careers in forensic science.

You'll have access to the specially modified Crime Scene House, which can be adapted to mimic the conditions typically found at a variety of crime scenes.

The two-bedroom house, which also includes a bathroom, kitchen and lounge, gives you authentic experience of what you might encounter as a forensics professional following a range of incidents and scenarios for example, a burglary, murder or abduction. There is CCTV and two-way communication in all the rooms, along with a control suite to allow live feedback from observing instructors. We can record sessions for analysis and evaluation an excellent learning tool.

Course detail

The department has an excellent bio- sensors research team, which supports this study programme and offers wider perspectives on the role of a forensic scientist.

Through your studies, you will follow evidence from the crime scene, through laboratory examination and analysis, to writing a report for court and giving evidence in a courtroom situation with examination-in-chief and cross examination.

The course is available as a full-time or part-time route, allowing flexibility and access for students already in related employment. It also offers excellent preparation for doctorate-levels studies.

Modules

• Advanced Crime Scene Science
• Forensic Biology and Genetics
• Forensic Analysis and Toxicology
• Research Methods and Practical Skills
• Research Project

Format

The research project is undertaken for the MSc award. Part-time students do this over two terms of the second year in the laboratory where they work. Full-time students carry out the project supervised by specialist subject tutors at UWE Bristol, or on placement with one of our partner forensic providers.

Students who complete all taught modules successfully, but do not undertake the research project, achieve a Postgraduate Diploma.

Students who complete the Forensic Biology and Genetics module successfully, plus any one of the other modules on the course, achieve a Postgraduate Certificate.

Assessment

We assess each taught module through written examinations and coursework. Coursework may be in the form of a case study, practical report, poster or oral presentation. One assessment involves collecting evidence from a mock crime scene, examining it in the laboratory, and providing a written report as you would for a court, plus examination-in-chief and cross examination in a mock courtroom.

Careers / Further study

Our postgraduate course in Advanced Forensic Analysis is highly regarded by forensic science employers it feeds into analytical careers and into specialisms such as DNA analysis. It is also ideal preparation for PhD routes, and UWE Bristol has excellent links with institutions providing doctorate-level programmes in forensic analysis. They use our departmental facilities for aspects of their research.
Graduates have gone on to work with our local partner providers, and in roles that include DNA analyst, forensic chemist and Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO).

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –
-
The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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The Forensic Science programme will provide you with advanced knowledge of the forensic processes (particularly chemistry and biology) and analytical techniques used in crime investigation. It is the longest-running accredited programme of its type in England. 

Key benefits

• Study programme fully accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.
• A well-established and highly respected forensic science programme with contributions from leading forensic scientists.
• Strategic alliance with the Metropolitan Police Forensic Services Directorate and research partners with LGC Forensics forming the Met/LGC/KCL managed forensic service provision (2017). 
• Links with over 25 forensic laboratories and institutions worldwide provide research placement opportunities for students’ projects.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technology and methodology at the forefront of forensic science research and development.
• Flexible study pathway with the opportunity to extend your project to a 28-week project to gain an extra 30 ECTS and the MRes qualification.

Description

Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, our Forensic Sciences study programme is the longest-running programme of its type in England, having been first established in 1985.

You will benefit from an advanced and flexible study programme devised and delivered by internationally leading researchers, and recognised forensic providers including our accredited DNA analysis and Drug Control Centre testing laboratories. We also collaborate closely with the Metropolitan Police Forensic Services Directorate in both teaching and research.

The course is made up of two 15 credit modules and three 30 credit modules followed by a 60 or 120 credit research module. If you are studying full-time, you will complete the course in one year, from September to September. If you are studying for the MRes qualification, you will study an extended research module that carries a further 120 credits to complete the course.

Course format and assessment

Teaching

For flexibility, a significant proportion of the course will be delivered by narrated PowerPoint. Teaching time includes workshops, group discussions and problem-based learning exercises. Approximate total contact hours for the taught modules is 360-hours.

You are also expected to undertake 840 hours of team and individual study.

Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.

Assessment

Current evaluation methods include examinations, MCQs, witness statements, courtroom appearance, crime scene management and assignments.

Formative assessments are carried out as teamwork with both peer and academic feedback. This is designed to help students with the subsequent summative assessments.

The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they are subject to change.

Extra information

You will also need to have either started or completed a course of Hepatitis B vaccinations.

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.

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Enhance your depth and breadth of knowledge, understanding and practical skills with this Analytical Forensic Science Masters from Liverpool John Moores University. Prepare for analytical careers in forensics and beyond.

•Complete this masters degree in one year (full time)
•Study a curriculum informed by research and industry practice
•Benefit from LJMU’s investment in Analytical Chemistry, accessing cutting edge technology, state-of-the-art laboratories and new crime scene facilities
•Learn from analytical forensic chemists, molecular biologists, crime scene and fire investigation specialists and leading national experts
•Develop transferrable legal and research skills
•Enjoy extensive career opportunities

Analytical Forensic Science is one of four forensic programmes offered by LJMU. All four options share a number of common modules, but each course has its own distinct identity.

Analytical Forensic Science has a heavy practical bias, enabling you to explore current and emerging analytical techniques and practices.
Using state-of-the-art laboratory, crime scene and moot room facilities, you will:
•explore the criminal justice system as a setting in which a forensic scientist might work
•be able to apply appropriate techniques following the analysis and evaluation of complex forensic cases
•learn to critically evaluate current crime scene techniques

You will enjoy a first class learning environment at the city centre Byrom Street site which boasts an ongoing £12 million laboratory investment programme and state-of-the-art research facilities in the newly developed Life Sciences building. Legal aspects of the course are taught in the Moot Room at the multi-million pound Redmonds building on Brownlow Hill.


This is a full time, year-long Masters course although you can opt to work at a slower pace and study over three years. There may even be the option to carry out the dissertation project in your existing place of work.
On joining the course you will be appointed a personal tutor who will offer academic and pastoral support. The School also operates an open door policy, providing access to members of staff when you need them.

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Advanced Drug Analysis and Toxicology
Combines theory and practical work in analytical chemistry techniques, relating to drug analysis including legal highs.
Law and Court Room Skills
Discusses the criminal justice systems under which a forensic scientist may work and examines expert witness testimony. Aspects of regulation and quality assurance are touched upon.
Research Methods
Covers grant application, critical appraisal of leading research and data interpretation and evaluation. This leads naturally into the dissertation.
Bioanalytical Techniques
Examines state-of-the-art biomolecular techniques, including DNA and protein analysis. Commonly used techniques in the forensic field will be critically analysed and performed along with emerging techniques which can form the basis of the dissertation or further postgraduate study.
Fire Investigation
Offers specialist knowledge of fire and explosive analysis both at the crime scene and in terms of analytical techniques.
Trace Evidence Analysis
Teaches you to identify, differentiate and analyse different types of trace evidence using advanced techniques. Microscopy, including SEM (EDX) and atomic force, form the basis of the practical analysis performed, along with other techniques.
Dissertation
The Dissertation research themes are led by staff and PhD students. Students are encouraged to present their research at conferences.
Further guidance on modules
The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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This MSc 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 course has a reputation for producing excellent scientists – our graduates are offered employment in prestigious companies in the UK and Europe, in fields ranging from analytical toxicology to forensic DNA analysis.

You will have the opportunity to undertake laboratory training as part of a work placement with Synergy Health Laboratory Services. You could conduct your research project in collaboration with Synergy Health and work towards developing UKAS-accredited methods of
analysis – the ultimate standard in analytical science and a great boost to your CV.

Our tuition offers detailed training in DNA analysis and interpretation techniques. You will gain knowledge of the basis and application of a number of novel analytical and extraction techniques such as chiral chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, solid phase micro-extraction and derivatisation techniques. You will study novel mapping techniques such as 3D scanning and LIDAR, plus our simulated facilities will allow you to learn how to effectively process major and specialist crime scenes.

To improve your employment prospects, you will learn about the law in relation to the forensic scientist – this includes their relationship with the police, lawyers and courts, and the role of the expert witness. There are guest lectures from eminent analytical scientists and forensic
practitioners, and you will be encouraged to observe courtroom proceedings and visit analytical laboratories.

The student experience on this course has been designed to consolidate and extend the core knowledge base, and practical skills through research-style investigations and project work. It also incorporates the opportunity to obtain a PRINCE2TM foundation project management
qualification, an internationally recognised qualification in project management (additional costs apply – see our website for details).

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We have designed this course for students wishing to make a career in the pharmaceutical industry, medical and academic fields, forensic science or any sphere in which a knowledge of toxicology is desirable.

Your studies will involve a mix of traditional toxicology and an introduction to the cutting edge of research at the molecular level.

This one-year course (or two years part-time) will enable you to enrich and update your knowledge while gaining an accredited postgraduate qualification that will help you achieve progression at work.

You will be equipped with the skills to enable you to undertake individual and collaborative research in this field.

The course’s optional module allows you to choose your own area of specialty within toxicology, offering you a clear direction for further research. This could be useful for the individual project you will undertake as part of the MSc, or in your future career.

We also offer intermediate awards of a PG Diploma and PG Certificate

Modules:
Toxicology (core)
Applied Toxicology (core)
Research Skills (core)
Research Project (core)
Optional Module (option)

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Toxicology and Environmental Health

In the Master's in Toxicology and Environmental Health you gain knowledge and skills in the recognition and evaluation of human or animal exposure to potentially hazardous factors in the environment.

The Master's programme in Toxicology and Environmental Health deals with the health risks of exposure to potentially harmful agents in the environment, in the workplace and through the food chain. Possible effects on ecosystems are also examined.This two year research programme is comprised of theoretical courses, a major and minor research project to gain practical skills, and the writing of a final Master's thesis. This programme is organised by the Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), an inter-faculty institute of Utrecht University; for your research projects it is therefore possible to work within one of the divisions of IRAS. Your minor project may also be carried out at an institute outside Utrecht University or abroad; or depending upon the career you find most appealing, you may replace your minor research project with a professional profile, including Management, Communication & Education, or Drug Regulatory Sciences. Graduates of the programme are prepared for further PhD studies in fundamental or applied research, or for a post at an academic level; they may work as toxicological risk assessors, occupational hygiene consultants, or forensic specialists.

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