Forensic Science and Criminal Justice MSc, by distance learning
Course Type: Full Degree
Course Level: Postgraduate
Study Method: Distance Learning
Course Duration: 27 months
Course Description
On this part-time, distance learning course you will learn how to evaluate and interpret different forms of forensic evidence and how to consider its relevance to police investigations. You will study the scientific principles and practical application of the many and varied techniques used to forensically examine different evidence types.
You will learn how to select the most appropriate techniques for different evidence types, how to interpret the results and how to apply critical analysis to determine what that means in terms of evidential value.
The skills and knowledge you will gain on this course will enable you to confidently argue the reasoning behind the interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence and to demonstrate in a court of law that you are credible as an expert witness.
Course structure
Year 1
The first year will equip you with the basics of understanding how forensic science is used to solve crime and how to analyse critically its use.
Modules:
- Crime Scene Examination
- Trace Evidence Analysis
- Evidential Value and Interpretation
- Research Methods
Year 2
In your second year you can focus your degree, if you want to, around specialist themes that may be of particular interest to you or your sponsor.
Option modules
You will choose either six modules marked L or three modules marked L plus two modules marked F or C from:
- Physical Evidence modules
- Fingerprint Corrosion of Metal (L)
- Arson Investigation (L)
- Forensic Engineering (L)
- Toxicology of Chemical Weapons (F)
- Blood Distribution and Spatter (F)
- Biological Evidence modules
- Biological Evidence and Serology (F)
- Forensic Toxicology (F)
- Forensic Genetics (F)
- Human Remains modules
- Introduction to Forensic Archaeology (L)
- Introduction to Forensic Anthropology (L)
- Management modules
- Crime Scene Management (L)
- Intelligence Gathering and Data Mining of Police Data (L)
Modules marked L are delivered by the University of Leicester. Modules marked F or C are taught by the University of Florida or the University of Canberra respectively
Dissertation
After completing your modules, you will complete a dissertation of approximately 15,000-20,000 words, which may be related to work-based issues you are facing.
Your dissertation topic will be chosen from a number of broad fields and should reflect an area of particular interest to you.
Your dissertation supervisor will offer regular virtual supervisory sessions, either by phone or online.
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Study Method
The Forensic Science and Criminal Justice MSc degree is studied 100% online through the University of Leicester distance learning platform. As a distance learning student you will receive support throughout the course from a group of dedicated academic mentors and module tutors. You will use module study books – available in hard copy and electronically – and Blackboard, our virtual learning environment. This will give you online access to materials to support each module, discussion forums hosted by module tutors and chat rooms where you can network with fellow students