Safety and Accident Investigation

Entry requirements

A first or second class UK Honours degree in a relevant subject-based discipline (e.g. safety, engineering, transport management, human factors, psychology etc.) or international equivalent. Applicants without a UK Honours degree, however, with relevant industry experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Months of entry

January, May

Course content

The MSc in Safety and Accident Investigation allows you to receive an internationally recognised qualification in the field of accident investigation. The majority of students join this course with the intention of receiving a qualification that will allow them to further their career development in accident investigation or other safety related areas of the transport industry.

Why this course?

Cranfield Safety and Accident Investigation Centre has been a centre of excellence for aircraft accident investigation for over 40 years. In 2011, we were awarded a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for our world-leading work in aviation safety through research and training in air accident investigation. We started our multi-modal accident investigation training in 2005, and have since then established our rail and marine accident investigation training capabilities. We are increasing receiving interest from other safety critical industries such as healthcare, infrastructure, power generation etc.

An important aspect of this course is the use of hands-on workshops and simulations to develop the practical skills required as an investigator, including interviewing techniques, analysis techniques, and technical writing. For the MSc degree, this is complemented by sessions that enable you to conduct rigorous research and scientific analysis. Throughout the programme you are supported and taught by Cranfield teaching staff and also by leading industry practitioners.

The course is specifically designed to meet the academic study aspirations of the international safety professional community. The highly practical nature of the course requires course attendance in the UK for some elements of the programme. However, most of the research and module assessments can be completed remotely. Cranfield University offers a comprehensive range of library and IT services tuned to support distance learning, enabling domestic and international students to study while balancing work/life commitments. Wherever possible, the University will continue to evolve to maximise distance learning opportunities within its programmes.

Informed by Industry

The Industry Advisory Board for this course consist of representatives from several government and commercial organisations who have an interest in safety and accident investigation. This includes representatives from government investigation agencies, military investigation departments, manufacturers and airlines. The board meets annually to ensure the course maintains its very high standard and the course content remains relevant and up-to-date.