Masters Degrees (Fraud Investigation)

The Fraud Investigation Management MSc course was developed in association with professionals leading the way in economic crime and fraud investigation in the UK and worldwide.

The MSc Fraud Investigation Management with Professional Experience, is an extended full-time Masters programme with a substantive professional experience component. Within the professional experience modules, students have the option of undertaking an internship with a host organisation or, alternatively, campus-based professional experience.

Internships are subject to a competitive application and selection process and the host organisation may include the University. Internships may be paid or unpaid, and this will depend on what is being offered and agreed with the host organisation.

Students who do not wish to undertake an internship or are not successful in securing an internship will undertake campus-based professional experience, which will deliver similar learning outcomes through supervised projects and activities designed to offer students the opportunity to integrate theory with an understanding of professional practice.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

If you are involved in fraud investigation or would like to be, this course can help you develop the skills, knowledge and understanding of current issues in fraud investigation, that you will need to better plan and deal with the potential fraud risk in your organisation. The course will focus students on the associated policy and procedures needed to be able to take a fraud case from inception right the way through to prosecution.

The UK has long been one of a small number of global leaders in the field of investigations, with UK Police officers currently involved in cases of national and international importance overseas. UK Police officers have developed a globally acknowledged reputation for professionalism and efficiency. It is this experience and practice which underpins the Coventry University Masters degree (MSc) in Fraud Investigation Management.

The Forensic Investigation group maintain close links with fraud investigation departments within financial institutions. Fraud investigation is a growing area and successful Coventry University graduates should be well placed to capitalise on this shift in the employment market.

The key driver for developing this course was the 2006 Fraud Review by Lord Goldsmith, which stated that a more strategic approach to the investigation of fraud by financial institutions and the Police was needed. Ultimately, graduates from the MSc in Fraud Investigation Management could be able to contribute to the professionalisation agenda for the role of fraud investigator and to effectively manage the fraud investigation function for their organisations.

HOW WILL THIS COURSE ENHANCE MY CAREER PROSPECTS?

All areas of investigation are undergoing a professionalisation process. In addition to vocational qualifications organisations with an investigative role are increasingly looking for employees and candidates with higher level nationally recognised qualifications. It is more and more likely that having relevant higher level qualifications will be an important part of any professional profile including when seeking advancement in a fraud or investigatory career.

WORK PLACEMENTS

The extended full-time Masters programme has a substantive professional experience component. The professional experience modules gives students the option of undertaking an internship with a host organisation or, alternatively, campus-based professional experience.

Internships are subject to a competitive application and selection process and the host organisation may include the University.

GLOBAL LEADERS PROGRAMME

To prepare students for the challenges of the global employment market and to strengthen and develop their broader personal and professional skills Coventry University has developed a unique Global Leaders Programme.

The objectives of the programme, in which postgraduate and eligible undergraduate students can participate, is to provide practical career workshops and enable participants to experience different business cultures.

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MSc Fire Investigation develops fire investigation knowledge and practical experience of investigation of actual fire scenes including excavation of fire debris, location of the seat of fire, investigation of the cause of fire, analysis for accelerants.

This course is designed for those who are employed, or who wish to pursue a career, in the area of fire investigation as a fire officer, crime scene investigator, forensic scientist or insurance investigator.

Fire Investigation is the analysis of fire-related incidents and is a highly multi-disciplinary area. Fire investigators need knowledge of fire behaviour, scene management, analytical chemistry and investigative skills. This course covers fire science and fire behaviour, fire investigation, analytical science, and provides students with research skills and knowledge of being an expert witness in the English legal system.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

The Fire Laboratory houses a full suite of fire test equipment where the flammability and fire toxicity of various materials can be investigated. MSc students take practical classes, carry out simulated casework and conduct lab-based dissertation research projects. Students also have access to a wide range of analytical instrumentation in the Faculty of Science and Technology’s Analytical Unit. The Unit has gas chromatographs with pyrolysis injection capability and FID, MS and EC detectors, ion chromatographs and high performance liquid chromatographs with diode array, fluorescence and MS and Differential refractometer detectors. The Unit also has facilities for atomic absorption, UV-visible and infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, NMR spectrometry, inductive coupled plasma mass spectrometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy With Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDAX).

The course will be delivered through lectures, tutorials and practical exercises. Guided teaching and formal assessments will enhance the development of transferable skills such as report-writing, maintenance of case notes, formal presentations, participation in discussions, ability to work to deadlines, computing skills, public speaking, scientific analysis, adherence and development of laboratory protocols and research methods.

Assessment is by exam, practicals and coursework. Assessments include the examination of fire scenes from real fires and producing case notes and reports, essays, moot courts, presentations and a dissertation.

OPPORTUNITIES

Students graduating from this course will be well placed to gain employment in fire investigation teams, forensic science laboratories, and fraud departments in major government or private organisations, or to go on to further research in academia.

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Why choose this course?

• The MSc Financial Investigation and Digital Intelligence will place a consistent focus on the study of professional investigative practice across the following themes
• Focusing on financial and digital investigation and intelligence in the context of the discipline of criminology, whilst drawing upon selected insights from specialist fields
• The theoretical and conceptual challenge of what investigation should look like, and the challenges of implementation in practice
• A shift in mind-set and the use of lateral thinking to disentangle and critically assess problems to identify opportunities for effective practice using financial and digital techniques
• Assess criminality and victimisation through the medium of financial and digital techniques, and the footprint that these create for investigative purposes
• Each of these fields provide a base of principles, knowledge and intellectual skills, subject specific skills and transferable skills that underpins the expectation level for the professional practitioner and the postgraduate student.
• The MSc Financial Investigation and Digital Intelligence is based on the specific context of practitioners operating under UK legislation, policy and regulation. Most of the principles will be generically applicable to many countries, and the programme will include selected reference to benchmarks for international standards and frameworks for cross-border collaboration between the public sector (law enforcement) and private sector. 
• This programme is designed to appeal to the graduate student, practitioners, and investigators with interests in issues such as cybercrime, fraud, organised crime, money laundering, terrorist finance, crime scripting, victimology and criminology. 

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We have tailored the MA in Criminology and Criminal Justice course to meet the requirements of graduates and professionals wishing to further their studies in this vibrant and increasingly important subject.

Covering exciting contemporary issues within the criminal process, such as homicide investigation, the threat of global organised crime and fraud investigation the course will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this competitive field.

The research methodology and dissertation modules aim to ensure that you receive training in a range of research skills; invaluable in both the professional and academic worlds.

Course detail

During the course, you will gain an understanding of key issues in criminal justice policy and the administration of justice.

You will study topics which will give you a specialised understanding of organised crime, the complex relationship between policing and public perception, the investigation of homicidein the UK and internationally, and you will develop a working knowledge of the techniques used in investigating fraud and money laundering.

Modules

• Contemporary Criminal Justice Issues
• Counter Terrorism Policing
• Investigating Financial Crime
• Homicide Investigation
• Organised Crime
• Research Methodology
• Dissertation.

Format

We use a wide range of teaching and learning methods to meet different learning styles and objectives. Our teaching strategy places you at the centre of the teaching and learning process in order to stimulate your interest so that you learn through involvement. We aim to encourage you to learn by your participation in well-structured learning activities.

During your MA studies, you can expect to benefit from small group lectures and workshops, class discussions with your peers and academics, and frequent formal and informal feedback on your ideas and your progress. Although postgraduate level study requires a significant amount of individual study outside of scheduled classes, you will be supported by staff, who will direct you to relevant resources and help guide your learning.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary between modules, but will comprise of a combination of coursework and examinations.

Career and study progression

A Criminology postgraduate degree can open the door to many exciting and rewarding careers. Some of the most popular careers include:
• police
• probation and prison officers
• private companies in the security industry
• in the court system
• administration of justice.

The skills you acquire on this postgraduate level course are also transferable and valued across many other sectors, such as:
• finance
• the charity sector
• the civil service
• the public sector
• the public services.

Research study enables you to specialise in the field you are passionate about.

How to apply

Click the following link for information on how to apply to this course: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/postgraduate/how-apply

Scholarships and bursaries

Information about scholarships and bursaries can be found here: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/postgraduate/scholarships-and-bursaries

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LJMU's Policing and Cyber-Crime Masters enables you to explore the interface between policing and computing, developing the skills required for contemporary crime investigation.

-Based in the Liverpool Centre for Advanced Policing Studies
-Collaborative programme with the Faculty of Engineering and Technology
-Reflects increasing police involvement in computer forensics/cyber crime
-Explore the interface between policing and computing
-Ideal for serving officers and those about to embark on their policing or academic career
-Excellent employment opportunities in policing and fraud investigation
-Valuable foundation for progression to PhD


MSc Policing and Cyber-Crime combines supervised independent research with specialist training in research methods and academic skills, while also helping students become aware of emerging approaches currently practiced in the discipline.

​Over the course of the programme you will be introduced to key developments in policing studies and given the skills necessary to produce a successful postgraduate research project. You will work individually with a supervisor throughout the year, as well as taking part in taught modules with fellow Policing Studies students and/or students from other disciplines/Faculties. In addition, you will be part of the wider research activities of the Liverpool Centre for Advanced Policing Studies, which aims to provide outstanding, innovative teaching and research for the advancement of policing and police forces.

​You will receive specialist supervision and study within a diverse community of fellow researchers, including specialist staff who work within the studies of computing. Staff are active in a wide range of fields including: Crime Prevention, GIS, People Trafficking, Public Order, Mental Health, Multi Agency and Partnership Working in the Public Sector, Computer Crime, Investigation, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Port Security, Risk Management and Education.

What you will study on this degree

Please see guidance below on core modules:

​Policing in Context

Gain insights into current policing, community safety and criminal justice priorities by exploring different perspectives that relate to policing, regulatory processes, professional values and ethics

Advanced Research Skills

In preparation for your dissertation, this module introduces key epistemological and methodological issues that impact upon research into crime, security, community safety and criminal justice

Computer Security

Develop an in-depth knowledge of various security threats and vulnerabilities in computer systems as well as the importance of computer security

Network Forensics

Develop a critical appreciation of both the theoretical and practical issues in the field of network forensics

Advanced Topics in Network Security
Explore cutting-edge developments in Network Security by studying recent academic research in the area

Network Security

Develop a deep understanding of various security vulnerabilities in and threats to computer networks as well as the importance of network security

Dissertation

Analyse and interpret an issue in your chosen field

​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.

Academic Framework reviews are conducted by LJMU from time to time to ensure that academic standards continue to be maintained.

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

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Develop the specialist accounting skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in forensic investigation and dispute resolution on this master's course. A forensic approach to accounting is often used in the workplace and this course allows you to specialise in this field.

Through the forensic accounting modules, the course gives you specialist insight into the forensic analysis of financial accounts and methods used in dispute resolution. Your studies into electronic crime show how new media can be exploited in financial fraud and how such actions can be traced.

You also gain an understanding of the legal issues in a forensic context. Part of your study involves increasing your knowledge of the legal framework in relation to the law of evidence and studying accounting in a legal context.

The corporate governance and ethics module shows you the importance of good governance and ethics to organisations and society throughout the world, so you can apply these ideas in your future career.

Your module choice allows you to tailor your study to an area of interest.

The financial analysis module gives you the ability to understand and utilise financial and other information in connection with identifying manipulation of financial statements.

This is an academic degree and as such you will gain analytical and technical research and consultancy skills. You develop knowledge and a reflective understanding of methodological and philosophical issues in research and consultancy with specific reference to finance. As an extension to this, you will develop your ability to critically evaluate published research and develop your own research skills. It provides the key steps in developing your understanding of the nature of the postgraduate dissertation and approaches to undertaking one.

You undertake an extended piece of research, which you design and carry out under the direction of an academic tutor.

You gain transferable skills relevant to the current national and international business world, in areas including problem solving, communication and information technology.

The team delivering the course has strong links with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants(CIMA) and Association of Corporate Treasurers (ACT).

Professional body membership

Your student membership fees for Association of Certified Fraud Examiners for your year of study are paid by the University allowing you to have full access to their member resources to help you complete your specialist modules.

Professional recognition

We are a member of the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.

Course structure

Core modules:

• Forensic accounting
• The expert witness in criminal litigation
• Methods of enquiry: research and consultancy in finance
• Forensic accounting applications
• Electronic crime
• Corporate governance and ethics
• Financial Analysis
• Dissertation

Optional modules:

• financial analysis
• financial regulation and supervision
• innovation in the digital enterprise

Assessment

• Assignments
• Presentations
• Dissertation

Employability

Our graduates are well-equipped for a range of careers as the course develops skills that are required by a broad range of industries. We have a team of specialist recruitment advisers and run a range of careers and recruitment events.

You can find careers in any accounting related-profession, or you can specialise in detecting financial fraud through forensic investigation.

Graduates from this course are equipped for professional roles in accounting and finance, such as • accountant • finance or accounting manager • financial controller • financial analyst • financial consultant • researcher or educator.

You can also use the course to help your career development if you are in the police, legal and penal professions.

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Why take this course?

Forensic information technology (FIT) is the scientific use or application of information technology (IT) in the generation and presentation of digital evidence to be used in courts, legal or other formal proceedings.

This course will enable you to develop your understanding and application of security issues and cybercrime for the purpose of forensic computing and investigation.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Learn how to investigate hacking, fraud and deception using a range of digital forensic tools
Practise identifying intruders' trails and suspected inappropriate use of internet applications in order to compile scientific evidence to prosecute
Manage a real-life computer engineering project using appropriate techniques for writing and reasoning about security policies

What opportunities might it lead to?

Many police investigations or civil disputes involve investigation of computer systems, mobile phones or other information devices, and there are an increasing number of UK companies that undertake investigations as consultants. You can expect to find career opportunities in such companies as well as in law enforcement and other services.

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT for the purposes of fully meeting the further learning academic requirement for registration as a Chartered IT Professional (CITP). This course also partially meets the academic requirement for registration, either as a Chartered Scientist (CSci) or (on behalf of the Engineering Council) as a Chartered Engineer (CEng)*.

*On condition that the Master's Engineering Project is successfully completed.

Module Details

You will study four key topics which will collaboratively develop your knowledge and ability to carry out forensic IT investigations as well as an introduction on how to build protected specification software for data and other web applications. You will also get to build your own test system as part of your final project.

Here are the units you will study:

Computer Forensic Investigation and Cryptography: This unit covers the practical aspects of conducting a forensic investigation of digital evidence. In order for the students to develop a critical understanding of computer forensics, a holistic approach of the forensics investigation process is adopted, with a full investigation ‘life cycle’ from seizure of evidence through to giving evidence in court as an expert witness. We look at a range of tools, operating systems and devices.

Computer Security: The unit provides an introduction to computer security concepts and their practical application, in both closed and interconnected networks. Students are expected to both understand and be able to critically evaluate different approaches to securing complex computer systems.

Cybercrime Security and Risk Management: This unit provides opportunities for participants to develop skills and knowledge in the understanding of corporate cyber threats. Drawing upon a range of practical examples, students will examine how rapid technological development and expansion in access to the internet has impacted upon crime (e.g. how anonymity and unfounded trust encourage deception), mapping out the terrain of information technology, and identifying the emerging areas of cyber crime. Areas explored will include the crossing of established boundaries into spaces over which control has already been established such as cyber-intrusion and cyber-theft, but also 'new cyber crimes' in the form of virtual trespass, Denial of Service attacks, and the development of opportunities for offending in the context of social networking websites.

Master's Project: You will undertake either an engineering unit or a study project, during the summer period. The project offers students the opportunity to apply the taught material in the solution of a real-world problem directly related to their course. The engineering project usually involves building a piece of software to solve a problem. An example of the sort of thing you might do would be building a tool to address a specific forensics requirement. The study project usually involves undertaking a study of an IT domain relevant to forensics. To prepare for this the project includes a number of preparatory sessions, which contribute to part of your final mark.

Specialist optional units include:

Systems, Security and Data Analysis: The first part of the unit provides an overview of computer organisation, operating systems and network design, with a strong focus on security considerations and aspects relevant to computer and digital forensics. The early part of the unit will provide an introduction to relevant issues in system architecture and file system organisation. Threats to computer systems will be considered. The first half of the unit is concluded with studying in some depth current technologies for securing real computer networks. The second part of the unit deals with the important topic of data analytics.

Advanced Programming Skills for the Web: This unit draws together a number of system development skills, focusing on how they can be applied to the development specifically of web applications. Topics covered include web programming, connecting databases to web applications, software tools, testing and security.

Programme Assessment

You will be taught through a combination of practical exercises, simulations, lectures, guest lectures and formative assessments, and will be expected to use a wide range of on and offline learning tools.

You will encounter a range of assessment styles depending on the content and nature of the unit topic. This can include written assignments, presentations as well as group and individual lab-based assessments. However, the most significant assessment element is the final dissertation, which reports and reflects on your final project.

Student Destinations

On completing this course, you will be equipped to seek employment in the following areas: IT auditing, information security, independent investigation, Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and law enforcement agencies. Some of our previous graduates have been successful in finding employment within high-tech crime units, commercial investigation and national security bodies, while others go on to further research study at PhD level.

This course will also appeal to already practising professionals in related areas such as law enforcement, system administration, corporate security, IS auditing or security analysis and management for the commercial sector.

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Why take this course?

Through the application of professional forensic accounting tools, models, techniques and knowledge, you will gain a comprehensive range of skills covering the three core areas of forensic accounting – litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. You’ll learn to apply your specialised accounting skills in a range of areas including business valuation, assessment of economic damages, proceeds of crime, fraud and money laundering.

This programme is taught full-time over one year, part-time over three years, and is also available through a Distance Learning option.

We are a member of the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, which enables us to have access to up-to-date teaching resources.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Investigate real-life case studies and learn the processes involved in compiling your own case
Receive guided support and mentoring from staff through formal meetings and via our use of social media
Tap in to our Library’s vast selection of electronic resources, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection

What opportunities might ti lead to?

One of the fastest growing areas of accounting, there is an increasing global demand for specialists with forensic accounting knowledge and skills. Our course therefore aims to provide a progressive, challenging and stimulating framework of study that will equip you to work in this field.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Audit and assurance
Taxation
Forensic accounting
Management accounting
Financial analysis
Treasury

Module Details

You will study a total of five units which consider a range of exciting topics such as corporate integrity and management control, fraud and forensic analysis, cybercrime and interviewing and testimony. You will learn how to investigate a case, gather evidence, prepare expert reports and provide evidence. The course then concludes with your dissertation where you’ll have the flexibility to specialise in an area of your choice such as fraud examination, litigation consulting or expert witnessing to name a few.

Here are the units you will study:

Financial Analysis and Modelling: You will gain a critical awareness of the financial environment from both an accounting and finance perspective. You will learn to understand, analyse and interpret company reports, examine the role of the regulatory framework for corporate reporting and the stock market, and explore the pricing of securities. You will also cover the key areas of decision and risk analysis, alongside the process of decision making, key statistical concepts, and selecting and using appropriate analytical software tools as aids to decision making.

Expert Witnessing and Dispute Resolution: This unit enables you to examine the full range of formal and informal methods for dispute resolution within common law, and civil and criminal legal systems, whilst also developing an understanding of the legal and practical protocols alongside the procedural knowledge and etiquette governing the appointment and testimony of expert witnesses. You will also develop a clear understanding of the legal basis and critical elements required to construct an expert report for submission in civil and criminal proceedings.

Financial Forensics and Investigation: On this unit you will develop an understanding of the need for an holistic approach in the investigatory models applied so that you can develop a critical, questioning and evaluative approach in assessing financial data. You will consider the primary evidential elements with a particular emphasis on gathering information from interviews and examining key issues and innovative approaches.

Financial Crime and the Law: You will focus on an appreciation and understanding of the wide variety of financial crime and how the current regulatory framework and crime control statutes have developed to deal with them. Through examining features of corporate integrity and management control systems you will gain an understanding of the development and needs of corporate governance in the context of the control theories of the firm.

Dissertation: This is a 15,000-word research project that combines a review of previous research undertaken in your chosen topic with your own data collection and analysis. This provides a unique opportunity for you to demonstrate the subject knowledge you have acquired, as well as your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills which are highly regarded by potential employers. During this phase, your research will be supervised by an experienced academic with expertise in your chosen topic area.

Programme Details

We use a combination of teaching methods from lectures, seminars and tutorials to student presentations and activity-based case studies. We are committed to best practice in learning and encourage group participation promoting discussion and debate in a friendly yet, challenging class environment.

You are assessed in a variety of ways to reflect the individual topics. Our approaches to learning, assessment and feedback are varied and constructive, to help you build the personal management and employability skills that are essential for a fulfilling career.

Student Destinations

This course is an ideal route into a wide range of professional careers in litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. On graduating you will be qualified for a number of roles in financial regulatory authorities, law firms, accountancy practices and law enforcement agencies. We liaise closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure that all our courses are relevant to their business and recruitment needs. Our overall aim is to help you find a fulfilling and financially rewarding job once you graduate.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Financial analyst
Internal auditor
Stockbroker
Account manager

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Forensic accounting and the related discipline of forensic audit are fast-developing areas in the commercial world. The major professional accounting firms now have departments offering forensic accounting and audit services, and the demand for expertise in this area is growing exponentially.

There is a need for people with specialist skills who can undertake fraud investigations, valuations, assist in dispute resolution, prepare expert reports, and conduct fraud and forensic analysis.

Additionally, you will be required to evaluate the principles of good corporate governance and the integrity of management, and understand the role of computer forensic techniques in an investigatory and legal context.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/491-msc-forensic-audit-and-accounting

What you will study

On this course you will study 180 credits from the following modules:

- Corporate Governance (20 credits)
Learn about the systems by which companies are directed and controlled, and their implication for fraud prevention and abuses of power.

- Forensic Audit and Accounting (20 credits)
You will be introduced to the principles of forensic audit and accounting, including theoretical concepts allied to investigation and analysis.

- Research Methods for Finance and Accounting (20 credits)
Gain an appreciation of the academic research process and the underlying elements and principles, developing the skills to critically evaluate and conduct postgraduate research.

- Dissertation (60 credits)
Undertake a significant piece of research into an appropriate area of study.

You will study 60 credits from the following option modules:

- Computer Forensics and Crime Investigation (20 credits)
Learn about the techniques and practices of computer forensics, applied to practical problems encountered by forensic accounting investigators.

- Audit and Assurance in a Global Environment (20 credits)
Gain an appreciation of the knowledge, skills and professional judgement needed in a variety of audit and assurance engagements.

- Expert Witnesses and Dispute Resolution (20 credits)
Gain an understanding of the role of an expert, including dispute resolution methods, legal and procedural requirements for experts in pre-trial and court situations.

- Contemporary Issues (20 credits)
Consider contemporary theories and developments in accounting and auditing thought and practice, including forensic accounting.

Learning and teaching methods

The course is delivered full-time through a combination of lectures, tutorials, computer workshops, case study analysis and discussion groups. You will be exposed to real-life situations and given the skills and opportunities to find practical solutions. You will have the opportunity to use state-of-the-art computer forensic and data analysis software.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

Employment opportunities are numerous, from specialist firms of forensic accountants to specialist departments within accountancy firms. There are many opportunities in the public and regulatory sectors, as well as employment prospects in commercial organisations, as part of investigatory, internal audit, and compliance departments. Recent graduates from this course are employed in the forensic accounting department of a ‘Big Four’ accountancy firm, and as a Fraud Investigator for a national public sector auditor.

Assessment methods

Assessment methods include examinations and coursework-based assignments.

Facilities

Specialist IT facilities are used where appropriate including audit and computer forensic software.

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Why take this course?

Through the application of professional forensic accounting tools, models, techniques and knowledge, you will gain a comprehensive range of skills covering the three core areas of forensic accounting – litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. You’ll learn to apply your specialised accounting skills in a range of areas including business valuation, assessment of economic damages, proceeds of crime, fraud and money laundering.

Depending on how much time you are able to commit to your study, we offer a two year or a 30 month duration, and our recommended study time per week would be around 12 and 18 hours respectively. We would strongly recommend that those students with full-time jobs or other commitments opt for the longer 30 month programme of study.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Investigate real-life case studies and learn the processes involved in compiling your own case
Participate in live web-based chat forums to discuss your work with lecturers and other students
Tap in to our Library’s vast selection of electronic resources, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection

What opportunities might it lead to?

One of the fastest growing areas of accounting, there is an increasing global demand for specialists with forensic accounting knowledge and skills. Our course therefore aims to provide a progressive, challenging and stimulating framework of study that will equip you to work in this field.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Audit and assurance
Taxation
Forensic accounting
Management accounting
Financial analysis
Treasury

Module Details

You will study a total of five units which consider a range of exciting topics such as corporate integrity and management control, fraud and forensic analysis, cybercrime and interviewing and testimony. You will learn how to investigate a case, gather evidence, prepare expert reports and provide evidence. The course then concludes with your dissertation where you’ll have the flexibility to specialise in an area of your choice such as fraud examination, litigation consulting or expert witnessing to name a few.

In the 30 month programme you will study two units in each of year one and year two, followed by the dissertation in the final year.

In the two year programme, you will study three units in year one followed by one unit and the dissertation in year two.

Here are the units you will study:

Financial Analysis and Modelling: You will gain a critical awareness of the financial environment from both an accounting and finance perspective. You will learn to understand, analyse and interpret company reports, examine the role of the regulatory framework for corporate reporting and the stock market, and explore the pricing of securities. You will also cover the key areas of decision and risk analysis, alongside the process of decision making, key statistical concepts, and selecting and using appropriate analytical software tools as aids to decision making.
Expert Witnessing and Dispute Resolution: You will be able to examine the full range of formal and informal methods for dispute resolution within common law, and civil and criminal legal systems, whilst also developing an understanding of the legal and practical protocols alongside the procedural knowledge and etiquette governing the appointment and testimony of expert witnesses. You will also develop a clear understanding of the legal basis and critical elements required to construct an expert report for submission in civil and criminal proceedings.
Financial Forensics and Investigation: You will gain an understanding of the need for an holistic approach in the investigatory models applied so that you can develop a critical, questioning and evaluative approach in assessing financial data. You will consider the primary evidential elements with a particular emphasis on gathering information from interviews and examining key issues and innovative approaches.
Financial Crime and the Law: You will focus on an appreciation and understanding of the wide variety of financial crime and how the current regulatory framework and crime control statutes have developed to deal with them. Features of corporate integrity and management control systems will additionally instil an understanding of the development and needs of corporate governance in the context of the control theories of the firm.
Dissertation: This is a 15,000-word research project that combines a review of previous research undertaken in your chosen topic with your own data collection and analysis. This provides a unique opportunity for you to demonstrate the subject knowledge you have acquired, as well as your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills which are highly regarded by potential employers. During this phase, your research will be supervised by an experienced academic with expertise in your chosen topic area.

Programme Assessment

This course is heavily student focused. You will be given resources, materials, help and guidance to complete your studies to your full ability. Using our virtual learning environment you can participate in group discussions with other students in a friendly, yet challenging online class environment. Plus real-time, text-based 'chat sessions' with lecturers will ensure you receive all the support you need throughout the course.

You are assessed in a variety of ways to reflect the individual topics, although for the Distance Learning mode of delivery there are no examinations to sit. Our approaches to learning, assessment and feedback are varied and constructive, to help you build the personal management and employability skills that are essential for a fulfilling career.

Student Destinations

This course is an ideal route into a wide range of professional careers in litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. On graduating you will be qualified for a number of roles in financial regulatory authorities, law firms, accountancy practices and law enforcement agencies. We liaise closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure that all our courses are relevant to their business and recruitment needs. Our overall aim is to help you find a fulfilling and financially rewarding job once you graduate.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Management accountant
Financial analyst
Internal auditor
Stockbroker
Account manager

Read less

Why take this course?

Through the application of professional forensic accounting tools, models, techniques and knowledge, you will gain a comprehensive range of skills covering the three core areas of forensic accounting – litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. You’ll learn to apply your specialised accounting skills in a range of areas including business valuation, assessment of economic damages, proceeds of crime, fraud and money laundering.

Depending on how much time you are able to commit to your study, we offer a two year or a 30 month duration, and our recommended study time per week would be around 12 and 18 hours respectively. We would strongly recommend that those students with full-time jobs or other commitments opt for the longer 30 month programme of study.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Investigate real-life case studies and learn the processes involved in compiling your own case
Participate in live web-based chat forums to discuss your work with lecturers and other students
Tap in to our Library’s vast selection of electronic resources, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection

What opportunities might it lead to?

One of the fastest growing areas of accounting, there is an increasing global demand for specialists with forensic accounting knowledge and skills. Our course therefore aims to provide a progressive, challenging and stimulating framework of study that will equip you to work in this field.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Audit and assurance
Taxation
Forensic accounting
Management accounting
Financial analysis
Treasury

Module Details

You will study a total of five units which consider a range of exciting topics such as corporate integrity and management control, fraud and forensic analysis, cybercrime and interviewing and testimony. You will learn how to investigate a case, gather evidence, prepare expert reports and provide evidence. The course then concludes with your dissertation where you’ll have the flexibility to specialise in an area of your choice such as fraud examination, litigation consulting or expert witnessing to name a few.

In the 30 month programme you will study two units in each of year one and year two, followed by the dissertation in the final year.

In the two year programme, you will study three units in year one followed by one unit and the dissertation in year two.

Here are the units you will study:

Financial Analysis and Modelling: You will gain a critical awareness of the financial environment from both an accounting and finance perspective. You will learn to understand, analyse and interpret company reports, examine the role of the regulatory framework for corporate reporting and the stock market, and explore the pricing of securities. You will also cover the key areas of decision and risk analysis, alongside the process of decision making, key statistical concepts, and selecting and using appropriate analytical software tools as aids to decision making.
Expert Witnessing and Dispute Resolution: You will be able to examine the full range of formal and informal methods for dispute resolution within common law, and civil and criminal legal systems, whilst also developing an understanding of the legal and practical protocols alongside the procedural knowledge and etiquette governing the appointment and testimony of expert witnesses. You will also develop a clear understanding of the legal basis and critical elements required to construct an expert report for submission in civil and criminal proceedings.
Financial Forensics and Investigation: You will gain an understanding of the need for an holistic approach in the investigatory models applied so that you can develop a critical, questioning and evaluative approach in assessing financial data. You will consider the primary evidential elements with a particular emphasis on gathering information from interviews and examining key issues and innovative approaches.
Financial Crime and the Law: You will focus on an appreciation and understanding of the wide variety of financial crime and how the current regulatory framework and crime control statutes have developed to deal with them. Features of corporate integrity and management control systems will additionally instil an understanding of the development and needs of corporate governance in the context of the control theories of the firm.
Dissertation: This is a 15,000-word research project that combines a review of previous research undertaken in your chosen topic with your own data collection and analysis. This provides a unique opportunity for you to demonstrate the subject knowledge you have acquired, as well as your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills which are highly regarded by potential employers. During this phase, your research will be supervised by an experienced academic with expertise in your chosen topic area.

Programme Assessment

This course is heavily student focused. You will be given resources, materials, help and guidance to complete your studies to your full ability. Using our virtual learning environment you can participate in group discussions with other students in a friendly, yet challenging online class environment. Plus real-time, text-based 'chat sessions' with lecturers will ensure you receive all the support you need throughout the course.

You are assessed in a variety of ways to reflect the individual topics, although for the Distance Learning mode of delivery there are no examinations to sit. Our approaches to learning, assessment and feedback are varied and constructive, to help you build the personal management and employability skills that are essential for a fulfilling career.

Student Destinations

This course is an ideal route into a wide range of professional careers in litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. On graduating you will be qualified for a number of roles in financial regulatory authorities, law firms, accountancy practices and law enforcement agencies. We liaise closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure that all our courses are relevant to their business and recruitment needs. Our overall aim is to help you find a fulfilling and financially rewarding job once you graduate.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Management accountant
Financial analyst
Internal auditor
Stockbroker
Account manager

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The rapid expansion of the use of digital technology has been followed by a similar increase in computer-based crime. This increase in criminal activity has led to a demand for qualified computer forensic analysts who can investigate digital technology based crime and uncover evidence that helps build a case against suspects. Forensic computer analysts may be involved in a range of investigations, such as online fraud, digital espionage, counter-terrorism, possession of illegal imagery and information theft.

A typical investigation would involve identifying and securing computer equipment, followed by the application of forensic methods and specialist computer programmes in pursuit of evidence. Tasks include recovering data from digital media, analysis of records to establish the location of a device, uncovering data trails, careful documentation of the investigation, presenting findings and acting as an expert witness in court.

You will be taught by an internationally recognised team from the University’s Information Security Research Group, and external speakers contribute to delivering the latest expertise and developments.

The University of South Wales are the only university in Wales to gain the prestigious provisional certification from GCHQ, the UK Government’s Communications HQ, for its Masters course in Computer Forensics.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/264-msc-computer-forensics

What you will study

- Computer Forensics and Crime Investigation
- Forensics Techniques and Data Recovery
- Computer Law
- Professional Skills Development
- Advanced Research Methods
- Project Management
- Security Management
- Research Project: an investigation of your choice, related to the course
- MSc Project: the development and evaluation of a significant application or task of your choice, related to the course

Learning and teaching methods

The course is delivered in four major blocks to offer an intensive but focused learning pattern, with two start points every year – February and September. Full-time students will typically spend 12 hours in classes each week. If you choose to study part-time, this is reduced to around six hours each week. You will study through lectures, tutorials, practical
sessions, seminars and projects.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

You will have had the opportunity to develop skills that strongly relate to the role of a forensic computer analyst or an information security analyst. These include problem solving, a systematic approach to work and an awareness of security standards and legislation.

Graduates will be well equipped for employment, including working for the police, security services, commercial sector, or organisations that specialise in computer security.

Assessment methods

You will need to spend a significant amount of time working independently, reading and preparing for assessments. While the style of coursework may vary, research-style papers or essays of around 4,000 words in length are typical. You will also work on a significant research project and a major project of your choice, where strong independent thinking, critical analysis and project management skills will be important.

Facilities

We have a full range of high-specification computer labs and an ongoing investment programme to ensure that our facilities stay at the forefront of computing developments.

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This course is designed to enable graduate students and forensic practitioners to develop the theoretical knowledge underpinning forensic document examination and provide intensive training and practical experience. It covers the analysis of handwriting, signatures, questioned and fraudulent documents and provides training in the use of a range of highly specialised techniques, such as VSC, comparison microscopy, ESDA and Raman Spectroscopy.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

The dedicated laboratory for this course houses an ESDA and a VSC-5000 and this is where MSc students will take a wide range of practical classes, carry out simulated casework and conduct laboratory-based dissertation research projects. Students will also have access to a wide range of state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation within the Analytical Unit. The Unit houses gas chromatographs with pyrolysis injection capability and FID, MS and EC detectors, ion chromatographs and high performance liquid chromatographs with diode array fluorescence, MS and Differential refractometer detectors. The Unit also houses facilities for Atomic absorption, UV-Visible and Infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, NMR spectrometry, Inductive coupled plasma mass spectrometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy With Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDAX).

Modules will be assessed through theory and practical examinations, and coursework (essays, moot courts, presentations and a dissertation). Students will be required to examine documents and equipment, produce case notes and reports.

Please note that Distance Learning students will be required to attend a two-week residential workshop at UCLan’s Preston campus during Semester 2. More information will be provided about this in Semester 1.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Modules are assessed through theoretical and practical examinations as well as coursework. Assessments include the examination of suspect documents and pieces of equipment from simulated cases and the production of formal case notes and expert reports, as well as essays, mock courtroom trials, group and individual presentations and a dissertation. Upon graduating from this course you will be well placed to gain employment in forensic science laboratories, police investigation teams, fraud departments in major government or private organisations, or to go on to further research in academia.

MSc Document Analysis is designed to enable graduate students and forensic practitioners to understand and develop the theoretical knowledge underpinning all aspects of forensic document examination and to develop skills in a variety of areas, which concern the processing, analysis, identification and interpretation of questioned documents. The course provides intensive training in all areas of forensic document analysis and provides extensive practical training in the areas of the analysis and identification of handwriting, signatures, printing apparatus and fraudulent documents. The course also provides you with training to act as an expert witness and presentation and communication skills.

You will study the principles underpinning the scientific analysis of handwriting and signatures together with the considerations involved when carrying out forensic casework. This course will also provide practical experience in the examination of printing equipment, typewriters, photocopiers and the identification of forged or counterfeit documents. You will be trained in a number of analytical techniques using highly specialised apparatus, such as the use of the video spectral comparator, a comparison microscope, ESDA (Electrostatic Detection Apparatus) and a Raman Spectrometer. In addition, the course will provide you with the opportunity to develop a large number of transferable skills.

Upon graduating from this course you will be well placed to gain employment in forensic science laboratories, police investigation teams and fraud departments in major government or private organisations, or to go on to further research in academia at doctoral level.

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With the growing complexity of the business environment and the rising number of business related investigations, forensic accounting professionals are increasingly asked to assist in the investigation of financial and business related issues.

Northumbria’s Forensic Accounting MSc is for graduates seeking to enhance their financial investigation knowledge and skills. It aims to enable you to gain the technical and intellectual skills which will equip you to take full advantage of career opportunities as they arise.

Learning experience

You will be trained to look beyond the numbers and deal with the business realities of situations. The ability to analyse, interpret, summarise and present complex financial and business related issues are prominent features of the course.

You will be taught by academics who are specialists (with professional bodies’ accreditation) and who have advanced degrees and extensive scholarly publications in fraud, anti-money laundering, financial crimes and in legal procedures and evidence.

At Northumbria, we consider assessment to be a learning experience in itself. Assessments are designed not just to test your learning and skills development, but to provide more opportunities for the achievement of your learning goals through a varied range of assessment approaches that are primarily driven by individual assignments, but also include personal development planning, group and peer assessments, portfolios and reflective reports.

Module Overview
AF7000 - Forensic Accounting (Core, 20 Credits)
AF7001 - Fraud Examination (Core, 20 Credits)
AF7002 - Fraudulent Statement and Forensic Data Analysis (Core, 20 Credits)
AF7003 - Anti-Money Laundering, Bribery and Corruption (Core, 20 Credits)
NX0422 - Dissertation Preparation and Research Methods (Core, 0 Credits)
NX0472 - Developing Global Management Competencies I (Core, 20 Credits)
NX0473 - Developing Global Management Competencies II (Core, 20 Credits)
NX0475 - Academic and Professional Development (Core, 0 Credits)

Learning environment

As a full-time student, you will be supported though an interactive approach to sessions that will draw upon the directed learning undertaken and your own experiences. Throughout, the emphasis will be on high levels of participation, both individually and within small groups or teams. You can therefore expect the reflective-practitioner approach to learning that will be embedded in all sessions and to engage with activities that will help you apply theory to ‘real-life’ situations.

Research rich learning

Our academics undertake practice relevant research in a range of applied subject areas, enabling us to interpret developments in what is a very fast changing subject field. You are encouraged to undertake enquiry based learning, where you will be co-creators of your own knowledge and learning and also develop research, enquiry and team working skills.

Give your career an edge

You will receive a wealth of employment support as part of your Masters study. Core to this is the two-part module Developing Global Management Competencies. This module seeks to prepare you to be highly employable, enabling you to demonstrate your ability to make an immediate impact on any organisation you join after graduation. You will also be supported by industry facing activity including short-term internships and placement opportunities where possible.

Your future

Successful completion of the course will enable you to differentiate yourself in a sector that has become increasingly competitive. You can expect to gain employment in many areas including, public practice or insurance companies, banks, police forces and government agencies.

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About the course

This course will enhance your accounting, finance or business-related skills and develop your career prospects in forensic accounting roles with organisations worldwide. It is designed to further students’ undergraduate business studies. While you will become familiar with all the following areas of forensic accounting, you will develop a deeper, specialist knowledge in one.

•Specialise in forensic accounting
This course enhances specialist knowledge and expertise for accountants, auditors and allied professionals and caters to professional practitioners seeking theoretical depth
•You may progress on to PhD level
You will develop research skills that will enable you to move on to study at a PhD level
•Participate in contests
We actively seek and partner in innovative learning experiences, for example, the ‘White-Collar Hacking Contest’ run by the Technical University of Munich
•Boost your employability potential
More than 96% of our graduate students are in further education or full-time employment six months after completing their course (DLHE 2015/16)
Gain practical experience in a variety of areas in Forensic Accounting by studying the new Digital Forensics Principles and Practice module

Teaching and assessment

Modules include formal lectures, tutorials, workshops, and interactive sessions.

Course modules

Fraud Examination and Investigation
Investment Valuation
Research Methods
Financial Crime and Law
Internal Control and Audit
Digital Forensics Principles and Practice

Elective taught modules may include:

Risk Management
Investment Fraud
Corporate Governance
Strategic and Financial Decision Making

Note: All modules are subject to change in order to keep content current.

Industry links and professional accreditation

De Montfort University is an ACCA Approved Learning Partner with Gold status and accredited by CIMA.

Graduate careers

The Department of Accounting and Finance has a strong work-related bias, offering professional, postgraduate and undergraduate courses. You will develop an advanced understanding of accounting and finance issues for the private and public sectors, both nationally and internationally, enhancing your career prospects with key financial skills sought after by many organisations.

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