Forensic Science

Teaching and assessment

Students are assessed in many different ways to prepare them for wider roles, while becoming more adaptable and employable in the process. Assessment types may include:

• coursework in the form of essays, laboratory or project reports, contemporaneous notetaking, problem sheets and online quizzes
• individual and group presentations and cross-examinations/tribunals
• practical competencies and real-life or real-time role-play scenarios.

Programme aims

This course aims to:

• develop a deep knowledge and experience of techniques relevant to forensic science and their practical application within particular relevant specialisations
• develop a critical awareness of and engagement with current research methods and techniques
• develop the abilities and skills necessary to devise, plan, carry out and present an original investigation or research project in an academic context
• develop a clear recognition of the constraints and opportunities of the environment in which professional forensic science is carried out
• prepare for entry to professional employment or doctoral level study
• enable the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development
• provide an excellent quality of higher education
• provide teaching informed by research and scholarship
• support national and regional economic success
• produce graduates of value to the region and nationally, in possession of key knowledge and skills, with the capacity to learn
• provide learning opportunities that are enjoyable experiences, involve realistic workloads, based within a research-led framework and offer appropriate support for students from a diverse range of backgrounds, provide high-quality teaching in supportive environments with appropriately qualified and trained staff.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of the course, you will be able to:

• demonstrate a deep specialist knowledge and experience of techniques within particular areas of forensic science
  
• engage with and show familiarity of recent and current research methods, results and publications
• recognise the constraints and opportunities of the environment in which professional forensic science is carried out
• demonstrate a familiarity with the moral and ethical issues involved in the practice of forensic science.

Intellectual skills

On completion of the course, you will be able to:

• show an effective self-critical attitude in planning, carrying out and reporting forensic science investigations
• demonstrate the abilities and skills necessary to devise, plan, carry out and report an original forensic science investigation or research project.

Subject-specific skills

On completion of the course, you will be able to:

• use an open and innovative attitude in the ability to plan and execute new forensic science experimental procedures
• demonstrate confidence in your ability to interpret complex technical information and to communicate it in a wide variety of professional situations.

Transferable skills

On completion of the course, you will be able to:

• implement self-directed and original thought in applying and adapting problem-solving skills to unfamiliar, complex and open-ended situations
  
• demonstrate an independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

Study support

Interdisciplinary approach

Much of the School's work is interdisciplinary and we have successful collaborative projects with members of the Schools of Biosciences, Computing and Engineering and Digital Arts at Kent, as well as an extensive network of international collaborations.

National and international links

The School has collaborations with universities around the world, particularly in Germany, France, Italy and the USA. UK links include King's College, London and St Bartholomew's Hospital, London. Our industrial partners include BAE Systems, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, and Ophthalmic Technology Inc, Canada. We also have collaborations with NASA, European Southern Observatory (ESO) and European Space Agency (ESA) scientists.

Dynamic publishing culture

Staff publish regularly and widely in journals, conference proceedings and books. Among others, they have recently contributed to: Nature; Science; Forensic Science International, Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine; Astrophysical Journal; Journal of Polymer Science; Journal of Materials Chemistry; and Applied Optics.

Global Skills Award

All students registered for a taught Master's programme are eligible to apply for a place on our Global Skills Award Programme. The programme is designed to broaden your understanding of global issues and current affairs as well as to develop personal skills which will enhance your employability.