Forensic Investigation MSc

Studying master of Forensic Investigation at Cranfield University in the United Kingdom:

 

The MSc in Forensic Investigation applies key principles of forensic science to the investigation of crime. It draws upon current forensic methodologies, latest techniques and cutting edge research to explore contemporary issues pertaining to criminal law. Most of our students have an undergraduate degree in Forensic Science, Archaeology or the Life Sciences, but the course is also open to students from a non-science degree or if they have professional equivalent experience. The course is taught by leading academics from multiple forensic disciplines who are both case work and research active, which creates a very engaging and stimulating environment for the students to learn. This also has a huge benefit of bringing in expert guest lecturers from different forensic industries, such as the police or forensic service providers and the defense and security sector. For the students, this gives rise to a broad selection of industry led research projects which exposes the students to real forensic work and increase their future employment opportunities. This course has a highly hands-on practical approach for example, in the evidence collection module we run a series of practical workshops where students will learn key skills fundamental to crime scene investigation. We set up stimulated crimes scene where students will learn to record and recover forensic evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, practice digital photography and drawing sketch plans. Throughout the MSc students will also learn key skills in laboratory analysis of trace evidence, the statistical interpretation of forensic evidence results, and the preparation of an expert witness statement for presentation in a mock court room. Collectively, these are transferable skills which can be readily applied to both the field and laboratory forensic careers which the students wish to pursue. Ultimately, you will become well-rounded candidate which in the competitive file of forensic science is something that future employers will look for. The course is made up of four compulsory modules, twenty four elective modules (which students should choose seven of them), a research project and thesis. Some modules may be taught at Shrivenham. The provided modules may be modified or canceled due to research advances, changes in rules or for various other reasons.

 

Admission Requirements of master degree in Forensic Investigation:

The course offers three degrees: MSc, PgDip and PgCert. Students can enter the course to take any of these qualifications, which are held full-time and part-time. Successful completion of the full-time course takes 11 months. As part-time courses, MSc takes three years and PgDip / PgCert takes two years to complete.

To study the field, students need a first or second class UK Honours (or equivalent) in forensic science, archaeology, scientific discipline or the professional equivalent. Other qualifications along with representing enthusiasm and knowledge in the scientific elements of the subject may be accepted.

 

Shrivenham Security clearance

Some courses of the Cranfield University are offered at the Defense Academy of the UK. Applicants must complete the BPSS before enrolling in the course or have a security clearance up to this level or higher.

 

Fees and funding:

MSc Full-time: £20,600

MSc Part-time: £20,600

PgDip Full-time: £16,700

PgDip Part-time: £16,700

PgCert Full-time: £8,350

PgCert Part-time:  £8,350

 

Language requirements of master degree in Forensic Investigation:

IELTS: 7.0 overall and 6.0 in all skill components.

TOEFL: 100 total and minimum skill component scores of 20 reading, 20 listening, 21 speaking and 20 writing

Pearson PTE: 68 overall and 62 in all skill components.

Cambridge Assessment English: Cambridge English Scale score of 190 overall and 175 in all skill components

Trinity College London: Overall Pass outcome.

Language Cert: Pass overall and 33 in all skill components.

* You can apply for one of the Cranfield’s pre-sessional EAP courses, if you do not meet the English language entry requirements.

The expiration date for the exams is only two years of the course start date. Combination of scores in two or more tests is not accepted, all elements of test results must be shown in one test. All test scores are checked with test providers.

 

Other living expenses needed for studying master of Forensic Investigation:

Single student:

• Accommodation: £500-£1000/Month
• Food: £260-£325/Month
• Travel: £40-£50/Month
• General expenses*: £150-£200/Month

Couples and families:

Accommodation:

• Couple: £2,500
• Couple with one child: £2,700
• Couple with two children: £3,000
• Couple with three children: £3,200

Additional guidance:

• Food: £70-£80/weakly per one person
• Clothing and laundry:

Weekly launderette for one person: £5-£8

Winter clothing estimate for one person: £350-£450

• Television: £159/year

 

University Deadlines:

There is no set time for applying to study in this field. Hence, applicants can apply any time. If accepted, they will be able to study in the next semester.