Forensic Science

Overview

Students have access to staff that are leading researchers and experts in their field. Undertaking this course allows students to explore their research potential and develop research skills. It is designed to provide a scholarship pathway to the PhD program. 

This Master of Philosophy in Forensic Science at the University of Technology Sydney  is designed to expand students' knowledge and practice of forensic science alongside developing science management and leadership capabilities, culminating in a substantial research project in Year 2. The course contains compulsory core and elective practice-focused forensic science subjects across a range of disciplines from the crime scene to the laboratory. Professional subjects covering a range of skills crucial to all professional scientists – such as project and laboratory management, advanced scientific communication, ethics, innovation and science business models – complete Year 1.

Year 2 comprises a substantial research component, giving students an opportunity to undertake original, cutting-edge research. For students with suitable achievement levels, this provides a direct pathway to a PhD, and carries points that can be used in the scholarship application process.

Course aims

The course aims to produce adaptable forensic scientists who are proficient with modern professional practice and technology, and have strong general professional skills such as scientific communication, critical analysis, and project management. With a substantial research component, students develop their research skills, which can be utilised either in industry R&D or as the initial foundations of a research career.

Careers   

Depending on the area of specialisation, graduates may pursue employment with organisations such as the Australian Federal Police, state policing agencies, ASIO, CSIRO, ANSTO, customs, immigration, and private forensic agencies. Career options include criminalist, trace evidence specialist, forensic toxicologist, DNA specialist, scene-of-crime officer, team leader in investigations, fire investigator, fingerprint analyst.

Graduates may also proceed to a career in research through entry to a PhD.