Forensic Science

Entry requirements

First or upper second class honours degree or an MSc in a relevant subject.

Months of entry

Anytime

Course content

Research students in Forensic Science have the opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team in the School of Chemistry, and can benefit from strong links with industry practitioners.

Students have the opportunity to engage in the work of the Forensic Analysis Research Group, to develop innovative methods and techniques to assist in solving crime and casework-related issues. The team are currently engaged in high-profile studies including collaborative projects with the Centre for Applied Science and Technology at the UK Home Office.

Students have access to a range of training programmes to support them in their independent investigations, and an experienced supervisory team are on hand to offer advice and direction. Ongoing research projects in the School are focused on the chemical analysis of legal highs, DNA analysis in forensic and archaeological contexts, and forensic toxicology.

Department specialisms

Our main research areas include: Drug analysis Explosives analysis Fingerprinting science Dye and pigment analysis Forensic anthropology Spectroscopic techniques (including Raman) and separation science Surface analysis. Recent research projects include: Chemical analysis of fingerprints Analysis of legal highs Development of sensors for forensic applications Development of colloids and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS).

Fees and funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. Loans are available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study. Learn how Master's and PhD loans, scholarships, and studentships can help you fund your studies on our Postgraduate Fees and Funding pages.