Forensic Science is a branch within both the law and science fields. It involves collecting and analyzing the relevant evidence produced in a criminal case to help reveal the truth behind the crime. Forensic scientists study footprints, fingerprints, blood traces, and human remains to perceive the real identity of the criminals and understand all the facts attached to criminal events.
This course includes several other educational fields like Physics, Medicine, Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, and others. It comprises several sub-fields and stand-alone degrees in drug analysis, forensic medicine, entomology, toxicology, forensic anthropology, biological evidence, etc.
Students interested in the course would benefit from regular lab work and practical classes and gain necessary skills such as critical thinking, scientific writing, and computer training to aid in the investigation of facts.
These students would then practice in medical diagnostic labs, crime scenes, offices, medical examiners, crime laboratories, prosecution attorney officers, criminal defense, law enforcement, education, etc.
So, if a student is interested in the criminal field and wants to assess ethical and legal issues to ensure the world becomes a better place, enrolling in an MSc forensic science in the UK is an excellent way to start!
Let’s take a quick look at the top-notch universities that offer master’s in forensic science in the UK.
University Name
Ranking (as per QS University Ranking)
Course Name
Duration
Tuition fees
University College London
8
Crime and Forensic Science MSc
1 year
GBP 32,100
The University of Manchester
28
MSc Forensic Psychology and Mental Health
1 year full-time and 2 years part-time
GBP 23,000-GBP 11,500
King’s College London
37
Forensic Science MSc
1 year
GBP 31,080
University of Bristol
61
MSc in Forensic Science
1 year
No published fee data
University of Birmingham
91
Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate
3 years
GBP 21,150
Eligibility for the course
Most universities in the UK are open to applications from international students for the degree of MSc in forensic science field, given that the student meets the necessary requirements.
Students are required to have a 2:1 undergraduate Bachelor’s degree in subjects like biology, chemistry, biochemistry, botany, zoology and pharmacy, toxicology, or other similar combinations, from a well-recognized university.
If students have a lower or unrelated undergraduate degree, they need to show significant work experience and understanding of this field. If students cannot meet this essential requirement, they must have enough work experience to show their ability and understanding of the subject.
Besides that, a student is required to match specific grade points. For example, a minimum of 32 points is desired for International Baccalaureate, and an overall 6.0 is necessary for the IELTS exam, with no specific component under 5.5.
Not to forget, some universities will also demand proof of English language proficiency.
Some MSc forensic science colleges in the UK need potential candidates to undertake entrance tests and sit for interviews besides showing consistent performance in their undergraduate course.
These eligibility requirements depend on every university and its preferences and interests. So, it’s important to keep visiting the university website to keep abreast with the new updates and continue doing individual research.
Specializations
The subject of forensic science comes with many sub-specializations. So, a student can pursue a course that best matches their interests and career plans.
Let’s look at the different forensic science courses one can choose from:
Cyber security and digital forensics
Information security and digital forensics
Forensic Accounting
Forensic archaeology and Crime Science Investigation
Average fee required to study MSc in forensic science in UK
The fee demand for different courses at different colleges varies. Considering the top 5 universities in the UK that offer master’s in forensic science (as mentioned above in the table), we can see that the average fee for international students will be around £26,832. Please note that this fee is for the full-time course, not part-time!
This fee will undoubtedly differ from university to university; hence, make it a point to check the concerned university’s website to get an accurate estimate.
Job prospects
Forensic Science masters in the UK can open several avenues for the students that will lead them to different career graphs. There are a lot of varying job prospects present after the conclusion of the degree, so make sure to consider all the options before you choose a particular line of work!
Here are some jobs that one can attain after a master’s degree in forensic science –
Analytical chemist
Toxicologist
Biomedical scientist
Scientific laboratory technician
Crime scene investigator
Forensic scientist
Detective
Expected remuneration
A good-paying job is every person’s dream, especially one who travels outside their home country to study in a foreign place. After all, it takes so much money to do so and keeps one away from their loved ones.
So, it’s only fair to want a job that pays comfortably well. Let’s look at some of the top-paying jobs in the UK after post graduation in forensic science.
What are the best countries to pursue a master’s in forensic science?
Students who want to head abroad for their higher education, especially to study forensic science, can consider going to the United Kingdom, USA, Australia, and Canada.
Is the subject of forensic science hard?
Yes, absolutely. Forensic science is highly challenging and easily one of the most competitive to excel in. If a student is interested in crime investigation and holds a robust mental presence along with an analytical approach, then forensic science is an excellent match for them!
Does the job of a forensic scientist involve working on the crime scene?
No. A forensic scientist does not have to go to the crime scenes. The crime investigation officers send all the relevant evidence from the location to the scientist for analysis and opinions.
Neha Uppal is a passionate content creator and editor. She carries 7.5+ years of experience working with leading edutech companies where she worked as a Faculty, Community Manager, and Content Marketeer. At upGrad, she is helping out people keep informed about the scopes and opportunities of studying abroad via informational articles/blogs.
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