Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation - MSc/PGDip

Keeley Hirst

Why did you decide to study at the University of Bradford?

I originally wanted to come to Bradford to study Pharmacy, and I knew that Bradford was great for that but I didn't get the entry requirements.
I started looking into Archaeological Sciences. I then found out that Bradford was great for Archaeology, so that's what I decided to do, go back to Bradford and study a BSc in Archaeological Science.

Why did you want to study MSc Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation?

In my last year of archaeology, I did a module called forensic archaeology and I really loved that side of it, I knew this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. In doing the Master’s course I realised that the Crime Scene Investigation side was the most enjoyable and that’s where I wanted to go.

What is your current role and how did your course help you get the role?

I'm a Crime Scene Investigator for the West Yorkshire Police. Without my Master's course, I wouldn’t have got my job. The CSI job asked for a science-based degree, but when you look deeper into the job specification, it wanted an in-depth knowledge of examining crime scenes that you just wouldn’t get without doing the course - doing this course sets you apart from everybody else.

What do you like about the city of Bradford?

It's a big city with a small city centre that’s got everything you need in it. I like how it's a growing city - since I moved here a lot has improved. There's the new Broadway Shopping Centre and I really like all the independent bars on North Parade.

What was your favourite thing about studying at the University of Bradford?

I really liked how it was a slightly smaller university. I liked how everyone lives close to the university - with Bradford, the halls are right next door and all the student houses tend to be in the immediate area. It's such an inclusive university when it comes to communities in general. Here, you get a chance to know everybody.