Elements of this Module will be undertaken at Cranfield University at Shrivenham located on the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom. Security clearance will be required if this module is selected. Please refer to our entry requirements section for more details, or see further about security clearance for Cranfield at Shrivenham.


This module can be taken as a Short Course for Credit.

Please go to the 'Upgrade to a professional qualification' section for more information.
 

This course will introduce you to the principles of forensic investigations involving firearms and the investigation of projectile ballistics. There will also be a number of supporting practical sessions involving the examination of small arms and ammunition, and the live firing of weapons.

At a glance

Course structure

One course per year. Each course lasts for 5 days.

What you will learn

This course will provide you with an unrivalled opportunity to gain hands-on, practical experience with firearms, ammunition and live firing testing.


Core content

  • weapon function and performance,
  • ammunition construction and design,
  • firearms identification,
  • current UK firearms legislation,
  • science of internal and external ballistics.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

This course will be taught at Masters standard as it is one of the modules that comprise the postgraduate Forensic Modular Masters Programme. Registering for this Short Course for Credit and successfully passing the associated assessment will gain you 10 Cranfield credits. These could then be used to apply for a transfer towards a PgCert/PgDip or MSc in the Forensic Programme should you wish to complete one of these courses within 5 years.

Who should attend

This course is aimed at non-specialists from a variety of backgrounds who would like to learn the fundamental principles of forensic firearms and ballistic investigations.

An appropriate degree or relevant work experience within a forensic field are required.


Accreditation

The course is a module of the Forensic Modular Masters Programme, which is accredited by  The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Concessions

£1,750 - Company (anyone being paid for by their company).

£875 - Individual (anyone paying for themselves to attend).

£435 - Student (a current student from any university or a former student of Cranfield University).

Accommodation options and prices

Please contact us for information regarding accommodation.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the Cranfield campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to Cranfield village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. Cranfield campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
Cranfield
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.