About this course
Fascinated by forensics? Dreaming of a career in a specialised field like crime scene investigation, DNA analysis, or toxicology? Looking to stand out with a Masters-level qualification that gives you that key competitive edge?
This flexible MSci shares two common years with our popular BSc (Hons) Forensic Science, before branching into a host of advanced modules. You’ll secure a postgraduate (as opposed to undergraduate) degree, and you can choose the study path that best-suits your professional ambitions.
From day one, you’ll be working with genuine experts in world-class facilities. Comb our famous crime-scene house for clues; work on case studies built from the real-world experiences of our teaching team; review your evidence in our dedicated forensics, chemistry, bioarchaeology, and ballistics labs; and present your findings in NTU’s authentic on-site courtrooms. You’ll be supported by prestigious guest speakers, placement and study-abroad opportunities, and a close-knit community of staff and students.
Forensics is a global science with a huge range of professional applications — from food safety and biometric security to the worldwide battle against counterfeiting, smuggling, and dangerous new designer drugs. With a Masters-level qualification, an enhanced understanding of the full forensic process, and some superb professional connections, you won’t just be an option for employers — you’ll be their priority.
Why study this course?
- You’ll complete your undergraduate and Masters-level forensic studies in the space of one degree course – emerging with a single, powerful qualification.
- It’s accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences — the gold standard in degree-level forensic education.
- We have some of the best facilities in the UK — so good, they’re used to train organisations like the HMRC, the British Transport Police, and rescue services across the East Midlands.
- You’ll be learning from the experts. Our teaching team has the highest number of former and current forensic practitioners in the UK — and in 2022, four of the School of Science and Technology’s six nominees for ‘Outstanding Teaching Staff’ came from the Forensic Sciences team.
- You’ll have the chance to complete a 12-month professional work placement with organisations like the fire brigade, the NHS, and even the Dutch police — an opportunity that’s created job offers for many of our students before they’ve even graduated.
- Looking for an international perspective on forensic theory and practice? You can also take part in a year-long exchange programme with our partner university in Canada.
What’s the difference? BSc vs MSci
- The BSc (Hons) is a three-year undergraduate course — or four years if you choose to complete a work placement. If your academic performance is strong enough over the first two years, we’ll automatically offer you a place on the MSci course.
- The MSci (Hons) is a four-year course — or five, with placement — that leads to a single postgraduate qualification. The first two years are the same as the BSc course, with advanced, Masters-level study then spread across the third and fourth years.
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5th in the UK for Forensic Science (Guardian University Guide 2024) -
Top 10 in the UK for Forensic Science (Complete University Guide 2025)
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94% of forensic science students were positive about the academic support on their course. National Student Survey 2024
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What you’ll study
Naturally, a Masters-level qualification requires more advanced study. There are two ways of accessing this course: one is to apply directly, and the other is to perform well enough on our BSc that you’re automatically offered entry to the MSci at the end of Year Two. Typically, we recommend this second option — see for yourself how you progress at undergraduate level, understand what really appeals to you about the field, and then make your own decision.
While the first two years of our MSci mirror the BSc, the third and final years offer a more specialised, focused look at specific areas of the field. This is a great option if you arrive at NTU with the goal of working in a particular area. As well as core modules like ‘Forensic Expert’, you’ll have the opportunity to pick from dedicated optional modules in biometrics, bioarchaeology, and analytical toxicology. You’ll complete an expanded research project in partnership with one of our academics, and — just like the BSc route — get the chance to complete a work placement in Year Three.
Working from crime scenes to courtrooms, the strength of our MSci is its versatility, and the opportunities you’ll have to focus on the professional / research areas that really interest you. You’ll be exploring the key areas that shape forensic theory and practice: policing and investigation, courtroom law and legal processes, and all the underpinning science. That scientific focus is what makes NTU’s approach so unique. Forensics is a disciplined, methodical, immersive field of study, involving minute details that can make — or break — a case. Learn the science, understand how to properly apply it, and you’ll have a big professional advantage over other graduates.
Study abroad opportunities
Get ready to embark on an adventure with our study abroad programs at partner universities or by getting a work placement overseas. Both opportunities will boost your employability, build lifelong friendships, and allow you to experience the world in a whole new way.
Introduction to Forensic Biology
Gain an introduction to the key areas that underpin the complex biological aspects of forensic science. You’ll write scientific reports and carry out oral presentations, both of which are important skills required of a forensic scientist.
Forensic Chemistry
Study theoretical and practical chemistry in relation to forensic science, including concepts of periodicity, bonding and structure, functional group chemistry, thermodynamics, and kinetics.
The Forensic Process
Develop your professional awareness of forensic science and the English legal system. Examine the role of the forensic scientist and law enforcement agencies, and even experience live trials. Also witness and investigate a live arson scene, under the guidance of renowned fire instigation experts.
Introduction to Forensic Analysis
Learn basic chemical principles including chromatography, applied spectroscopy, statistical tests, electroanalytical techniques, and appropriate specialist methods.
Technical Skills for Forensic Science
This module will develop your understanding of professional standards in forensic science, with particular emphasis on the development of your technical and digital skills, including use of an e-portfolio to demonstrate your competency in these areas.
Professional Skills for Forensic Science
Develop your skills in mathematical sciences. This module will help to train you, as a forensic scientist, in the essential calculated and logical thought processes needed to solve problems
Core modules:
Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Photography
Learn about crime scene investigation and its role within the forensic process, leading onto forensic image processing and the procedures and legislation attached to these areas.
Biological Techniques in Forensic Science
This module will form a platform of knowledge, conceptual understanding and skills in the application of bioscience techniques and their relevance to forensic science.
Ethics and Law for Forensic Science
Gain a professional awareness of the law governing police powers, the substantive criminal law and the law of evidence, including an analysis of law and the European Convention on Human Rights.
Forensic Casework Examination
Develop an awareness of the application of laboratory examination methods in forensic science, enabling practical application of relevant techniques to casework problems.
Forensic Analysis
Building on Year One, you will focus on interfering sample matrices, quantitative and qualitative identification of multicomponent samples, and measurements under non-ideal conditions.
Optional modules - choose one:
Introduction to Suspicious Death Investigation
You’ll consider the range of specialist practitioners needed to investigate an unexplained death in different circumstances and learn the techniques and methods used. Examine bio-deterioration (including decay and degradation of bodies under different environmental conditions) through scenario-led practical sessions.
Forensic Image Processing
Study the principles of imaging including theory of light, how digital sensors work, image noise and techniques for image enhancement. The module is taught through a series of practical workshops where you’ll use our wide range of imaging equipment before processing your images using the software package Image.
Microbial Structure, Identification and Distribution
Explore the function of important subcellular structures of micro-organisms, as well as the taxonomy and identification of the main groups of bacteria, fungi and viruses relating to forensic investigations.
If you are taking a year-long work placement (sandwich course) the modules below will be studied when you return to campus in year four.
Core modules
Molecular Techniques for Identification
You will develop an understanding of the role of DNA-based analysis, looking at the various techniques and issues relating to the successful recovery and analysis of DNA samples.
Drugs of Abuse
This unique module focuses on drugs of abuse and illustrates the forensic applications of a range of analytical techniques. You’ll learn about the legislation covering substances and their classifications. It also includes international drug trafficking and case studies of clandestine laboratories.
Research Methodology
This module will prepare you to undertake the research project in the final year, developing your skills in critical thinking and designing experimentation.
Advanced Topics in Forensic Science
You’ll look at current aspects of research in forensic science and tackle current issues facing the forensic community.
Optional modules - choose two:
Advanced Crime Scene Investigation
Managing a crime scene is explored in detail in this module and you’ll learn how to deal with major and serious crime scenes and consider contamination issues. Blood pattern analysis is also studied and you’ll develop an understanding dynamics of blood interpretation and its use as evidence in investigations.
Forensic Microbiology
Develop your molecular identification methods including microbial DNA fingerprinting (PFGE, PCR-amplification techniques) and explore the use of international databases (EnterNet, PulseNet). You’ll consider bioterrorism, accidental and deliberate contamination, medical negligence and food-borne disease through the use of real-life case studies.
Communicating Science and Technology
This module will be of interest to you if you are considering a career in teaching and / or want to develop your portfolio of transferable skills.
Ballistics and Firearms
Study the current legislation around firearms including hand guns, rifles, shotguns, sub machine guns, proof marks and ammunition. You’ll explore physical concepts for ballistics to understand the nature of spent ammunition comprising Newton’s laws of motion and gravity.
Forensic Ecology and Anthropology
Using techniques such as forensic entomology, botany and anthropology, you’ll discover how long ago remains were deposited and what they contain. Take part in activities where you’ll collect data which you’ll analyse and make conclusions before writing a witness statement that could be used as a vital piece of evidence in court.
If you are taking a year-long work placement (sandwich course) the modules below will be studied when you return to campus in year five.
Core modules
Project 60
This is the capstone module where you’ll work with a member of academic staff and undertake in-depth research in an aspect of forensic science.
Forensic Expert
This module will allow you to develop a skills portfolio that’s expected of the expert witness and take a case file through to being presented at court.
Choose two from the following optional modules:
Biometrics and Forensic Databases
Gain an overview of identification, authentication and verification techniques, with an introduction to the theory of database systems and the legal and moral implications of database use.
Analytical Toxicology
Develop working knowledge of various drug separation and detection techniques and the application of analytical approaches to detect and quantify drugs and metabolites in biological fluids and tissues. You’ll review the use and abuse of substances used as both medicines and poisons.
Bioarcheology
You will look at the recovery of bodies in missing persons and unexplained death scenarios, including search, recording, recovery, and the evidential significance of plants, pollen and soils.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
When I first visited NTU, specifically Clifton Campus, a wave of excitement went over me and I was just so impressed by the campus. I couldn't wait to get stuck in. I felt like I was in a film, it was bizarre but a feeling I'll never forget. It's a great place to study with lots of study spaces and more intimate nooks to get your head down and get some work done. NTU also has some of the latest tech and equipment, for us in Forensics that was the Super lab, which again just wowed me when I first went in."
(MSci (Hons) Forensic Science student review, Student Crowd)
How you're taught
Our supportive, multi-award-winning teaching team is a big part of what makes this course so special. Made up of current and former practitioners, they’ve seen it all, and they bring over 200 combined years of professional experience to the table. Variously, they’ve worked (and continue to work) as crime scene investigators, bioarchaeologists, fingerprint and footwear experts, laboratory managers, toxicologists, chemists, DNA reporting scientists, police officers, and detectives with the Serious and Organised Crime Squad.
Practical and workshop classes enable you to gain competence in the application of the fundamental principles of forensic science and are focused around problem solving and interpretation. You’ll take part in crime scene investigation simulation exercises based on real work problems which reflect the challenges facing Crime Scene Investigators.
The MSci has a stronger focus on ‘self-guided’ learning. It’s designed to grow the autonomy and research confidence you’ll need for your final-year project — so you’ll be completing plenty of independent reading in addition to what you’re being taught.
Learn from the best
Through their shared expertise, their incredible industry connections (including the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the Royal Society of Chemistry, regional police forces, the HMRC, and the Institute of Forensic Research in Krakow), and guest-speaker events like that Chemistry and Forensic Seminar Series, you’ll be learning from the best of the best.
Learn a new language
Alongside your study you also have the opportunity to learn a new language. The University Language Programme (ULP) is available to all students and gives you the option of learning a totally new language or improving the skills you already have. Find out more about the ULP.
How you're assessed
Throughout the course, you’ll be assessed in a variety of ways that include:
- lectures
- workshops
- seminars
- visits
- group projects
- case studies
- verbal presentations
- laboratory assessments and reports.
Careers and employability
Your career development
Employers in the fields of chemistry, biology and physics as well as forensic science highly value graduates with a strong background in:
- scientific investigation
- the reconstruction of events
- the presentation of findings.
These skills are invaluable for careers in forensic science, law enforcement (for example, the police, Customs and Excise, immigration and fraud investigation) and academic research.
Our recent MSci (Hons) Forensic Science graduates have secured roles at companies including:
- Derbyshire Constabulary
- De Montfort University
- Eurofins Forensic Services
- Perfectos Inks
- Reckett Benckiser
- Nottinghamshire Police
- Vision Security Group
- Boots
- Premier Analytical Services
- Surrey Police
They have gone into a wide variety of job roles including:
- Forensic toxicologist
- Forensic services assistant
- Digital evidence recovery technician
- Forensic services lab officer
- Police officer
- Development chemist
- Lab technician in forensic toxicology
- Analytical assistant
- Pharmacy development analyst
Many graduates also choose to undertake further study on a MPhil or PhD research degree.
Excellent placement opportunities
Placements
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with a range of career programmes and events.
On this course, after your second year, you will have the opportunity to take a year's work placement (sandwich placement). This will give you the chance to gain vital experience and put your knowledge into practice. You're also twice as likely to secure a graduate job within six months if you take a work placement.
Our recent Forensic Science students have taken placements across a wide range of companies including Nottinghamshire and Cumbria Police Forces and the NHS. They secured varied roles such as Collision Investigation Support Volunteer, Digital Forensics Intern and Student Cyber Security Analyst.
You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Diploma in Professional Practice.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
You’ll mainly be studying in the Erasmus Darwin Building and Crime Scene Training Facility with access to facilities including:
Crime Scene Training Facility
This is a typical residential property based on-campus and used exclusively as a crime scene investigation training facility. The rooms are set up to replicate a range of realistic crime scene scenarios, ranging from burglaries and assaults to searches for illegal substances. You will take on the role of crime scene examiner and develop your investigation, collection and analysis techniques.
Ballistics Laboratory
You will have access to a large reference collection of spent and inert shotgun, rifle, pistol and revolver ammunition to train in ammunition recognition.
The focal point of the Ballistics Laboratory is the comparison microscope, which you will use to identify the characteristics of spent cartridge cases and bullets recovered from crime scenes.
You will have access to ammunition and firearms identification databases, which are the same as those used by UK ballistics experts and firearms examiners.
Document Examination Laboratory
You will learn how to use the video spectral comparator (VSC) to determine the authenticity of security documents such as:
- passports
- identity cards
- currency.
You will also learn how to recover indented writing evidence from documents using the electrostatic detection apparatus (ESDA). A wide of photographic stands and specialist light sources are available for use in photographing a range of evidence types that have been recovered from crime scenes. All Forensic Science students are trained in digital photography and image processing.
Our self-contained, community-focused Clifton Campus has been designed to keep students busy between lectures. Catch-up with your course mates in the Pavilion’s barista café and Refectory; brainstorm group presentations in chic and stylish study spaces; enjoy some proper R&R in The Point, home of our Students’ Union. The campus also hosts the multimillion-pound Clifton Sports Hub, offering great options for everyone — whatever your interests, and however competitive you’d like to get!
You’re also right next to the bright lights of Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. All through termtime, a dedicated on-campus bus service will get you to the heart of the action (and back) in under 25 minutes. You’ll find a city stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure: enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.
Take our virtual tour to get a real feel for the campus.
Entry requirements
UK students
- Standard offer: 128 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications including A-level equivalent Chemistry and another Science or Numerate subject* grade C
- Contextual offer: 120 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications including A-level equivalent Chemistry and another Science or Numerate subject* grade C
* we will accept biology / human biology, physics, maths / further maths, core maths, use of maths, environmental science, physical education and sport science.
To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.
Additional requirements for UK students
There are no additional requirements for this course.
Contextual offers
If you don’t quite meet our entry requirements, we might be able to make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, including your background (such as where you live and the school or college you attended), your experiences and your individual circumstances (you may have been in care, for example). This is called a contextual offer, and we get data from UCAS to help make these decisions. We do this because we believe everyone with the potential to succeed at NTU should have the opportunity to do so, no matter what barriers you may face.
Meeting our entry requirements
Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS Tariff points attached to specific grades, including A-levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to four different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our Tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.
Other qualifications and experience
NTU welcomes applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds, either for year one entry or for advanced standing beyond the start of a course into year 2 or beyond.
We consider study and/or credit achieved from a similar course at another institution (otherwise known as credit transfer), vocational and professional qualifications, and broader work or life experience.
Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route. If you wish to apply via Recognition of Prior Learning, please contact the central Admissions and Enquiries Team who will be able to support you through the process.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form.
International students
- Academic entry requirements: 128 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications including A-level equivalent Chemistry and another Science or Numerate subject* grade C. We accept equivalent qualifications from all over the world. Please check your international entry requirements by country.
- English language requirements: See our English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.
* we will accept biology / human biology, physics, maths / further maths, core maths, use of maths, environmental science, physical education and sport science.
Additional requirements for international students
English language requirements
View our English language requirements for all courses, including alternative English language tests and country qualifications accepted by the University.
If you need help achieving the language requirements, we offer a Pre-Sessional English for Academic Purposes course on our City campus which is an intensive preparation course for academic study at NTU.
Other qualifications and experience
If you have the right level of qualifications, you may be able to start your Bachelors degree at NTU in year 2 or year 3. This is called ‘advanced standing’ entry and is decided on a case-by case basis after our assessment of your qualifications and experience.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
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Getting in touch
If you need advice about studying at NTU as an international student or how to apply, our international webpages are a great place to start. If you have any questions about your study options, your international qualifications, experience, grades or other results, please get in touch through our enquiry form. Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world.
Policies
We strive to make our admissions procedures as fair and clear as possible. To find out more about how we make offers, visit our admissions policies page.
