Forensic Science
Expand your forensic science expertise through case studies, specialist labs and courtroom experience. Join our Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences accredited Master’s degree.
You can choose to study this course part-time, and start in September or January. The course durations vary slightly: 28 months (September starts) or 33 months (January starts). Course content and modules remain the same.
in the region for postgraduates progressing into senior roles.
Source: Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026
Experience forensic science in action through realistic crime scene set-ups and laboratory and courtroom experiences.
Taught by our expert staff, as well as forensic experts and employers, you'll develop practical skills and advanced theoretical knowledge across a wide range of forensic techniques.
You'll learn to examine, analyse and interpret diverse forensic evidence and undertake an independent research project with guidance on research design, practice and communication.
-
Study a Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences accredited Master's degree
-
Practise presenting evidence through realistic courtroom simulations and expert witness training
-
Investigate evidence in dedicated crime scene facilities and specialist forensic laboratories
-
Learn from specialists across forensic chemistry, toxicology, genetics, policing and crime scene examination
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
Prepare for a rewarding career in forensic science.
With expert teaching, industry connections and practical experience that reflects professional practice, you'll graduate ready to work in specialist forensic science laboratories or law enforcement agencies.
Our Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences accreditation, and partnerships with forensic and pharmaceutical laboratories, police and fire services mean you’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to investigate and communicate forensic evidence confidently.
Teaching and modules
Develop advanced forensic skills and learn how to defend your findings.
You'll build your skills in evidence recovery, analysis and interpretation, and prepare skilled and expert witness statements and learn how to defend them in a courtroom.
You'll practise trace evidence analysis and interpretation using microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, working with a range of trace evidence types. You’ll also enhance your understanding of forensic laboratory analyses, including chemical and toxicological analyses, genetics, and challenges faced in forensic investigations.
You'll critically evaluate scientific evidence and literature while completing an independent research project, supported by experienced academics and developing the skills required for professional forensic practice.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Mastering Forensic Evidence (30 credits)
- Evidence Collection and Management (30 credits)
- Research Methods and Preparation (15 credits)
- Specialised Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits)
- Mastering Forensic Analysis (30 credits)
- Masters Research Project (60 credits)
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example if the MSc/MA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.
-
Dr Agatha GrelaSenior Lecturer in Forensic Chemistry
-
Professor Lata GautamAssociate Professor
-
Dr Risha Jasmine NathanSenior Lecturer
-
Dr Pet-Paul WepebaLecturer
-
Professor Havovi ChichgerProfessor in Biomedical Science
-
Dr Grisha PirianovSenior Lecturer
Facilities
You'll be based in our Science Centre in Cambridge.
Facilities include authentic crime scene rooms and designated teaching and research laboratories with specialist equipment.
You’ll also have the use of extensive library and IT resources, and careers support through our Employability Service. After you graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.
You can also access support, should you need it, with study skills, health and wellbeing, and more.