NEW: Cranfield Forensic Institute Merit Scholarship - up to 15%. Find out more
Forensic biology is the application of biology to link a person(s), such as suspect or victim, to a location, an item or another person. It can be utilised to further investigations for both criminal and civil cases. Two of the most important factors to be constantly considered throughout the collection, processing, and analysis of evidence, are the maintenance of chain of custody as well as contamination prevention, especially considering the nature of the majority of biological evidence.

This MSc is highly practical by its very nature. There is a focus on the interpretational skills required to critically evaluate different forms of forensic evidence recovered from exhibits in the laboratory and at the crime scene, based on scenarios.

With particular focus on biological evidence types, such as DNA, blood and other body fluids, the MSc focuses on the decision making and practitioner opinion of the scientific evidence based on real life case scenarios.

You will have the opportunity to learn skills which are key to the role of the forensic practitioner, such as court room skills and gain knowledge from experienced practitioners that contribute to the teaching on the modules within the MSc. There is also an emphasis on strong and effective communication and expression of opinion through scientific reports, instructions, and discussion with colleagues. 

Forensic Biology MSc sits within the Cranfield Forensic Institute at Cranfield campus.

The course provides numerous opportunities to gain practical skills both in the laboratory and at the onsite crime scene facilities. There is also a distinct focus on the interpretational and critical thinking skills required by a forensic practitioner in industry. This course will also provide numerous opportunities to gain skills which would be advantageous in a range of laboratory-based careers and other careers in the criminal justice system.

Most modules are delivered over a five-day period, interspersed with time devoted to private study. You will be required to take 8 core modules, which include modules on the forensic context of body fluids, bloodstain pattern analysis and DNA as well as courtroom skills. 

You will also have a choice of 13 elective modules which can be based on your particular background, future requirements or interests.

This is followed by a four-month research project and either a thesis or paper. Within the research project, you will get the opportunity to gain essential experience from use of a range of analytical equipment and will be assigned a relevant supervisor with industry experience best suited to your topic of interest to support your process.

The choice of subject areas and the mode of learning provides a highly flexible course where you are able to tailor the MSc to your interests.

Overview

  • Start dateLaunching October 2023
  • DurationMSc: 11 months full-time, up to three years part-time; PgDip: up to 11 months full-time, up to two years part-time
  • DeliveryBy written and practical examinations, continuous assessment, project presentation and oral exam
  • QualificationMSc, PgDip
  • Study typeFull-time / Part-time
  • CampusCranfield campus

Who is it for?

The MSc in Forensic Biology will appeal to those with an interest in pursuing a career as a forensic practitioner. In particular, with specific interests within the field of biology. Since the course will have particular focus on detection and evaluation of biological evidence types, such as DNA, blood and other body fluids.

This MSc will appeal to students with an interest in a career in a forensic laboratory, that have a science or forensic science first degree.

This course offers a focus on the interpretational and critical thinking skills that are required to evaluate forensic evidence as a forensic practitioner. 

This course is exclusively at Cranfield campus, and so no additional security clearance is required to attend campus. In addition, students will be able to use the brand-new facilities and equipment which form part of a significant investment in Cranfield Forensic Institute, at Cranfield Campus.

Students come from wide-ranging backgrounds and from abroad, especially Europe, Africa and North America.

Informed by Industry

The course is devised and taught by professionals with forensic casework experience. It is is also endorsed by industry experts from varying disciplines of laboratory and crime scene backgrounds and will provide the essential skills to demonstrate a good CV for graduate employment within the forensic sector.

Course details

This course will be solely Cranfield campus based.

The course will be delivered face-to-face through lectures, group sessions, seminars as well as a large portion of practical work, both in the form of analytical analysis within a laboratory environment and within the crime scene facilities.

You will do 8 core modules and then you get to choose from a further 13 elective modules to suit your interest in other themes of forensics.

Following the taught phase, you will spend the remaining time until the end of August completing an individual dissertation project in a forensic topic of your choice.  This may be a practical based thesis or other.

You will also get to enhance your oral and presentation skills in Courtroom Skills module as well as in other modules, where you will get the opportunity to contribute to discussions in seminars.

Every student will also be further supported by being assigned a personal tutor at the start of the course.  Personal tutors provide support for students outside of the immediate teaching staff on the MSc.

Course delivery

By written and practical examinations, continuous assessment, project presentation and oral exam

Individual project

The individual project takes four months from April to August and will take place after the modular section of the course is complete.

You can select from a range of titles, or may propose your own topic. Most are practically or experimentally based using Cranfield’s unique facilities.

Modules

Keeping our courses up-to-date and current requires constant innovation and change. The modules we offer reflect the needs of business and industry and the research interests of our staff and, as a result, may change or be withdrawn due to research developments, legislation changes or for a variety of other reasons. Changes may also be designed to improve the student learning experience or to respond to feedback from students, external examiners, accreditation bodies and industrial advisory panels.

To give you a taster, we have listed the compulsory and elective (where applicable) modules which are currently affiliated with this course. All modules are indicative only, and may be subject to change for your year of entry.


Course modules

Compulsory modules
All the modules in the following list need to be taken as part of this course.

Introductory Studies

Module Leader
  • Peter Masters
Aim
    The aim of Introductory Studies is to prepare you for your subsequent programme of study on the assessed modules. It is optional and carries a formal credit rating of zero, although your understanding of the material covered may be tested as part of the assessments for the course modules. Students are strongly advised to participate in Introductory Studies.
Syllabus

    The emphasis in Introductory Studies is on fundamentals and subjects are covered at first-degree level. Topics include:

    • Chemistry,
    • MSc themes,
    • Computing services and library briefings,
    • Explosives awareness,
    • Study skills and research methods,
    • Maths, including Statistics,
    • Library resources and referencing,
    • Research ethics,
    • Healthy and safety.

Intended learning outcomes

Introductory Studies is designed to enable students to revise, consolidate and expand their skill and knowledge base so that they can derive maximum benefit from the course.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Self-evaluate their educational needs and plan remedial action as required,
  • Manage their studies using a range of IT,
  • Prepare coursework without recourse to plagiarism by fully acknowledging the contribution made by the work or ideas of others,
  • Work in accordance to University Health and Safety policy.
 

 

Investigation and Evidence Collection

Module Leader
  • Dr Hannah Moore
Aim
    To understand the core responsibilities of evidence recording and collection at the crime scene, both in general, and specifically related to operational constraints of a UK investigative context. To understand the operation of forensic and police investigators within the context of a major investigation.
Syllabus
    • Role of the CSI,
    • Scene approach,
    • Volume and major crime scenes,
    • Recording the scene,
    • Photography of the crime scene,
    • Search and location of evidence,
    • Evidence recovery techniques,
    • Evidence integrity and contamination issues,
    • Evidence evaluation,
    • Exhibiting and packaging,
    • ISO 17020.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Analyse various different strategies of volume and major scene investigation to consider the effects of different approaches.
  • Compare the range of evidence collection and investigation techniques available to the crime scene investigator.
  • Evaluate the relative merits of the range of systematic crime scene procedures vital to successful investigations.
  • Evaluate which of these procedures are appropriate to a particular crime scene and apply these procedures appropriately during a crime scene exercise.
  • Create a crime scene report which objectively critiques the methodologies used and draws justified conclusions appropriate for the evidence.
 
 

 


Reasoning for Forensic Science

Module Leader
  • Dr Trevor Ringrose
  • Dr Ken McNaught
Aim

    To provide an understanding and experience of the disciplines underpinning critical evaluation of quantitative information applied within the Forensic Sciences.

Syllabus
    • Experimental design
    • Interpretation and assessment
    • Effective framing & rebutting of arguments
    • Problem solving
    • Evidential types
    • Use of relevant statistics for design & interpretation
    • Courtroom statistics

     

    The syllabus will follow the general course of a generic investigative process from the appropriate framing of a question to the critical interpretation of data and information. The appropriate use of data in well-constructed arguments will be considered in order to distinguish between fact, opinion and speculation.  Intellectual rigour will be challenged, and the ability to identify weakness in argument will be developed. Data will be examined for reliability and reproducibility with a focus on the distinct features of forensically related data.  Appropriate use of descriptive and hypothesis testing statistics will be practiced and the ‘prosecutor’s fallacy’ explored. Bayes’ Theorem will be considered and rehearsed through case studies.  


Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Recognise the fundamental features of effective experimental design,
  • Explain how confidence may be secured through effective reliability and reproducibility assessments,
  • Frame and defend an effective argument concerning quantitative information,
  • Apply appropriate statistics to forensic evidence for analysis and interpretation,
  • Explain the statistical processes to the layman,
  • Apply Bayes’ Theorem to forensic evidence.
 

 


Analytical Techniques

Module Leader
  • Dr Fiona Brock
Aim

    To provide an understanding of the principles and practical applications of the major analytical techniques used in materials based investigations.


Syllabus
    • X-ray diffraction (XRD).
    • X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
    • Electron microscopy (SEM) and micro-analysis.
    • Optical microscopy.
    • Spectroscopic methods: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy.
    • Mass spectrometry (including ICP-MS).
    • Chromatographic and other separation methods: e.g. GC, GC-MS HPLC.
    • DNA analysis and forensic genomics.
    • Isotope analysis and radiocarbon dating.
    • X-radiography.
    • Hyperspectral imaging.
    • Proteomics.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Appraise the capabilities and limitations of a wide range of analytical techniques and apply them to the identification and characterisation of forensic and/or archaeological materials,
  • Interpret and evaluate the results of analysis using key laboratory techniques through comparison with other samples and reference material, with appropriate regard to experimental uncertainty.
  • Collate analytical results and compose a clear and concise written report while ensuring traceability of evidence.

Courtroom Skills

Module Leader
  • Roland Wessling
  • Dr Kate Hewins
Aim

    The module will provide an understanding of the role and responsibilities of expert witnesses in domestic and international criminal and civil cases and how they can present their evidence to the court effectively. You will also apply knowledge gained in previous modules to strengthen arguments presented in expert witness reports.

Syllabus
    • Role and legal responsibilities of the forensic expert,
    • Civil and criminal procedure rules,
    • Excellence in report and statement writing,
    • Presentation of evidence in court,
    • Preparation for examination-in-chief and cross-examination.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Compare and contrast between the various legal systems and the concepts of criminal prosecution and civil litigation,
  • Evaluate and compose in the role and with the responsibilities of an expert witness,
  • Construct, formulate and appraise an effective expert witness report in compliance to legal requirements for such a document,
  • Construct a case to present oral evidence in court effectively and respond successfully to cross-examination, with an insight into how cross-examination is prepared.

DNA

Module Leader
  • Laura Hugh
Aim
    The aim of this module is to provide a broad introduction to DNA as evidence, its forensic examination and interpretation.
Syllabus
    • DNA - structure and function,
    • Awareness of different sources of DNA (crime scene, references and elimination samples),
    • Direct and indirect DNA transfer,
    • Stages of DNA profiling,
    • Modern DNA profiling methods, including DNA 17 and DNA 24,
    • Alternative DNA profiling methods, e.g., Mitochondria DNA analysis and Y-STRs,
    • Next generation forensic DNA analysis,
    • Familial DNA,
    • Evaluation of DNA evidence – statistical and non-statistical.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Discuss the role of DNA as genetic material.
  • Evaluate the role of DNA evidence within the criminal justice system.
  • Appraise a broad range of current DNA technologies used within industry.
  • Interpret modern DNA profiles and assess DNA profile reporting styles.
  • Distinguish and apply model approaches to the evaluation of DNA evidence within Bayesian frameworks.

 

Body Fluids

Module Leader
  • Laura Hugh
Aim
    The aim of this module is to provide a scientific background to body fluids as evidence types within the criminal justice system and associated investigative and evaluation methods.
Syllabus
    • Different types of body fluids -Body fluid detection methods,
    • Transfer and persistence of body fluids -Body fluids as an investigative tool,
    • Interpretation within Bayesian frameworks -Recording of experimental results,
    • Current research,
    • Understanding of body fluid interpretation within a forensic context by the layperson.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Categorise different types of body fluids and critically appraise the different body fluid forensic detection methods,
  • Evaluate the role of body fluids as tools within a forensic investigation,
  • Appraise the different ways to interpret body fluids evidence in accordance with Bayesian frameworks by use of casework examples,
  • Synthesize a systematic body fluids search using appropriate detection and collection techniques,
  • Construct a clear expert witness report.

Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

Module Leader
  • Laura Hugh
Aim
    This module appraises the investigative approaches and evaluation of expert interpretation within the forensic discipline of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis.
Syllabus
    • Bloodstain definitions,
    • Types of bloodstain patterns,
    • Formation of a blood droplet,
    • Force and surface effects on bloodstain formation,
    • Bloodstain pattern analysis as an investigative tool,
    • Evaluation of bloodstain patterns within Bayesian frameworks,
    • Recording of bloodstain details in a report,
    • Detection methods of marks in blood,
    • Research within this field of forensic science.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Categorise different types of bloodstain patterns,
  • Critically appraise the discipline of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis as a tool that supports the investigator,
  • Interpret bloodstain patterns within Bayesian frameworks of understanding,
  • Critically evaluate the variables that affect the formation of blood droplets and the effects of surface features on the formation of bloodstains,
  • Synthesize a clear and concise technical report.

Thesis Research Project

Module Leader
  • Professor Andrew Shortland
Aim
    To undertake an independent investigation relating to a specific area of the syllabus. This world normally be experimentally or practically-based but could also be based on a meta-analysis of existing data sets, data from existing archives such as public records or information collected from the internet.
Syllabus
    • Project planning,
    • Safety assessment,
    • Statistics,
    • Experimental design,
    • Library search techniques,
    • Web search techniques,
    • Technical writing.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Plan a research project, with aims, objectives, risk assessment and time line (Gantt chart),
  • Assess novel areas of research and optimise experimental solutions to forensic related problems, appraising a specific area of forensic science based on their knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concept, principles and theories,
  • Critically review key issues and evaluate and combine information from multiple sources (journals, internet, interview, court proceedings etc.), whilst being aware of the possibility of bias,
  • Evaluate the requirements of a specific test and design, construct appropriate experimental apparatus and critically evaluate the results of experimental work; especially in the light of other published work in that area should it be available,
  • Prepare a thesis or a paper plus literature review in a clear and concise fashion using appropriate presentation of data and present their project at an oral examination, justifying its relevance and the experimental procedures and present results.

Elective modules
One of the modules from the following list need to be taken as part of this course

Fires, Explosions and their Investigation

Aim
    • Understand the complex application, interpretation and determination of Fire investigation and explosive deflagrations in the criminal, civil judicial process.
    • Understand the specific application of fire and explosion investigation skills in real world applications and investigations.
    • Understand the applications of materials behaviour, fire dynamics and theoretical approaches to fire investigation, research and academic practices.

     

Syllabus
    • Heat Transfer,
    • Ignition and Heat Growth,
    • Smouldering Fires/ Other Fire Phenomenon,
    • Thermal properties of materials,
    • Gas/And Other explosions,
    • Materials, SEM/EDX Other/Mechanical Testing,
    • Electrical assessment and ARC mapping,
    • 3D/CFI Modelling,
    • Marine FI,
    • Aviation FI,
    • Fire modelling/Compartment design,
    • Practical material analysis,
    • Fire science and behaviour of explosive events.
     

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Assess fire science theory and fire modelling for its limitations,
  • Infer from the various physical and mechanical processes observed what mechanism was leading to the initiation of fires and explosions,
  • Analyse the mechanisms involved in the spread of fire and the development of gas, vapour, and dust explosions,
  • Evaluate what forensic techniques can be applied depending on the scene of a fire or explosion and the potential offence.
  

Trace Evidence

Module Leader
  • Laura Hugh
Aim
    To provide a scientific background to different trace evidence types and awareness of associated forensic identification and examination techniques.
Syllabus
    • Direct and indirect transfer of trace evidence,
    • Direct and indirect transfer of trace evidence,
    • Fibre and hair construction,
    • Microscopy for identification and comparison purposes,
    • Glass construction and forensic examination,
    • Paint characterization,
    • Toxicology,
    • Drugs analysis,
    • Alternative light sources for search purposes.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Plan and manage a systematic investigative search for trace evidence using appropriate detection and collection techniques, with consideration of the order of examinations,
  • Appraise and categorise different types of trace evidence by identifying and measuring their most important features, including awareness of relevant forensic databases for interpretation purposes,
  • Judge the importance of different types of trace evidence within forensic casework with reference to real-world scenarios,
  • Critically evaluate trace evidence transfer models,
  • Prepare a clear and concise written report on a trace evidence investigation.

Forensic Archaeology: Mass Grave Excavation

Module Leader
  • Roland Wessling
Aim

    The module will introduce the principles of mass grave investigations; from finding and assessing sites, setting up and carrying out mass grave excavations to analysing and interpreting graves, victims and associated evidence.

Syllabus

    Day 1: Classroom based teaching

    Day 2: Site assessment and setup

    Day 3-6: Site excavation

    Day 7: Site closure and exercise debrief

     

    The seven days include:

    • Basic principles and structure of mass grave investigations,
    • Methodology of mass grave excavations,
    • Operational and logistical challenges in mass grave investigations,
    • Recovery of surface evidence at mass grave/mass killing sites,
    • Recovery of human remains in a mass grave context,
    • Recovery of buried evidence associated with human remains,
    • Documentation of human remains and associated evidence,
    • Surveying of evidence and site features,
    • Crime scene photography processes,
    • Evidence registry processes.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Revise their methodologies to a single or mass grave environment,
  • Judge the role of a forensic archaeologist and anthropologist within a forensic and criminal investigation team in a mass fatality investigation framework,
  • Collect and evaluate surface and buried evidence as well as human remains as part of a wider forensic investigation,
  • Assess non-material, forensic archaeological evidence in mass grave structures, such as tool marks,
  • Assess the site history in order to reconstruct the series of events that lead to the existence of the grave and the positioning of the victims and evidence.

Fundamentals of Forensic Anthropology: Osteology

Module Leader
  • Dr Nicholas Marquez-Grant
  • Dr Nivien Speith
Aim

    To provide a broad introduction to the subject, focusing on the role of the forensic anthropologist, human skeletal anatomy and the basic biological profile from human skeletal remains.

Syllabus

    Day 1: Introduction to human skeletal anatomy, biomechanics, and forensic anthropology.

    Day 2: Bone and tooth identification and taphonomy.

    Day 3: Human vs non-human bone.

    Day 4: Biological profile estimation (age-at-death, sex, stature, ancestry).

    Day 5: Analysis of a human skeleton.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Explain the role of the forensic anthropologist,
  • Learn about the human skeleton,
  • Recognise, name and accurately describe the bones of the human skeleton,
  • Distinguish human from non-human bones,
  • Estimate the sex, age-at-death, stature and ancestry of a skeleton.

Practical Archaeological Excavation

Module Leader
  • Peter Masters
Aim

    To provide you with an understanding of the manner in which traditional archaeology uses field techniques to address practical research questions.

     

Syllabus
    • Planning an excavation,
    • Logistical practical and health and safety issues,
    • Practical excavation skills,
    • Man management and organisation skills,
    • Drawing, planning and recording an excavation,
    • Small finds,
    • The care of human remains,
    • Press, the public and other partners.

     

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Plan and manage an excavation,
  • Transfer theoretical knowledge of excavation techniques into practical use,
  • Organise a safe recovery and record rigorously material uncovered in the excavation,
  • Critically evaluate the most important features of an excavation and determine appropriate techniques,
  • Appraise results and convey results to externals both archaeological experts and lay members of the public.
 
 

Mass Fatality Incidents

Module Leader
  • Dr David Errickson
Aim

    This course provides an introduction to mass fatality incidents (MFI); their definition, categorisation, mitigation and management. It has a strong focus on disaster victim identification (DVI) but also covers more general effects, challenges, lessons learnt, management developments and, the return to normality following an MFI. In particular, the course considers the roles and responsibilities of the personnel involved in the DVI process, practical application of Interpol guidelines and DVI forms, planning and evaluation of temporary mortuary facilities and, DVI humanitarian assistance aspects of mass fatality incident response.

    The course may be of interest to a wide range of professionals including; emergency planners, emergency response personnel (police, fire and ambulance), family liaison officers, accident investigators, NGO workers, forensic scientists, medical doctors, lawyers, and those involved in the investigation of missing persons.


Syllabus
    • Introduction to mass fatality incidents (MFI); definitions, categorisations and history,
    • MFI mitigation, response planning and management,
    • Disaster victim identification (DVI) process and challenges,
    • Roles and responsibilities of DVI personnel,
    • Role of INTERPOL with respect to MFI,
    • Needs of the bereaved and humanitarian assistance,
    • Potential personal impact of MFI on responders,
    • Case study examples,
    • Lessons learnt and management developments,
    • UK and International perspectives,
    • Mock MFI scenarios,
    • Media involvement with, and impact on MFI.

     
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Formulate the key aspects of mass fatality incidents with respect to definitions, categorisations, mitigation and management.
  • Appraise previous mass fatality incidents to critically evaluate the challenges, lessons learnt, management, development of legislation, and the aftercare following a mass fatality incident.
  • Formulate an awareness of current best practice guidance for disaster victim identification (DVI), logistical and scientific challenges, and the roles and responsibilities of the personnel involved in the DVI process.
  • Compose and synthesise the needs of the bereaved, best practice for humanitarian assistance, and the potential impact of mass fatality incidents on responders.
  • Construct effective communications by application of reasoning and collaboration through participation in a range of mock MFI scenarios.
 

 

Forensic Ecology

Module Leader
  • Professor Tracey Temple
Aim

    The module will provide an understanding of the contribution of environmental evidence in a forensic investigation and how analytical sciences can help the investigation of crimes against the environment.

Syllabus
    • Introduction to environmental forensic science
    • Forensic palynology and botany
    • Forensic entomology
    • Forensic limnology (diatoms)
    • Forensic sedimentology, soil profiling and soil analysis
    • Taphonomic processes of decay
    • Environmental law, policy and compliance
    • Detection, prevention and prosecution of crimes against the environment
    • Detection and prevention of wildlife crime
    • Case studies in environmental crime.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module you will be able to:

  • Assess the value of environmental evidence in the investigation of crime,
  • Identify environmental legislation and examine its application to examples of environmental pollution,
  • Sample and analyse entomological evidence to give an estimation of post-mortem interval,
  • Analyse soil, pollen and diatom evidence for provenance,
  • Evaluate the use of soil, pollen and geological databases,
  • Demonstrate how analytical sciences can be used in the detection and investigation of crimes against the environment,
  • Identify pollutant linkage by using environmental forensic techniques.

Fakes and Forgeries

Module Leader
  • Professor Andrew Shortland
  • Dr Nathaniel Erb-Satullo
Aim

    The module will provide an understanding of the principles of forensic and scientific investigations into art objects.

     

Syllabus
    • Introduction to the art world,
    • Collectors, auction houses and museums,
    • Object and material types: (stone, ceramic, glass, metal, pigment, organics),
    • Scientific versus art historical analysis,
    • Special considerations of sampling,
    • Quasi-non-destructive and non-destructive techniques,
    • Relative and absolute dating,
    • Provenencing.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate the basic functioning of the art market,
  • Construct a critical stance regarding the legal roles of various players and the part that science can play,
  • Critically assess the various scientific and non-scientific techniques,
  • Design sampling strategies and propose techniques which are of most use,
  • Create and manage a specific investigation of art objects to successfully formulate a reasoned and balanced conclusion.

Radiographic Investigations in Forensic Science

Module Leader
  • Dr Mark Viner
Aim

    To provide an understanding of the principles and practical applications of radiographic imaging techniques used in forensic science.

Syllabus
    • Physics of X-ray production and utilization,
    • Radiographic equipment and complimentary imaging modalities – computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound,
    • Analogue and digital image recording media,
    • Radiation protection and legislation,
    • Medical imaging techniques and their application in the forensic examination of human subjects; ballistic trauma, narcotics trafficking, abuse, assault, homicide,unexplained sudden death, human identification,
    • Virtopsy ® and the virtual post-mortem,
    • Radiographic techniques applied to art work and counterfeit objects,
    • Industrial radiographic techniques for engineering components including weapons, missiles and improvised explosive devices.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate the fundamental principles of a wide range of imaging techniques,
  • Identify and assess appropriate radiation protection measures when employing radiographic imaging techniques according to current ionising radiation regulations,
  • Critically assess the advantages and disadvantages of different imaging techniques and their use in the individualisation of human remains and characterisation of trauma and/or disease states,
  • Critically analyse the advantages and disadvantages of imaging techniques and their use in the identification and characterisation of components and component failure,
  • Practically implement appropriate imaging techniques for defined situations and interpret the results.

Trauma Weapon Effects

Module Leader
  • Dr Nicholas Marquez-Grant
  • Dr Richard Critchley
Aim

    Understand the nature of different weapon types used in criminal activity. Evaluate the construction of improvised weapons and their wounding potential in real life scenarios.

Syllabus
    • Discuss and evaluate commonly used weapons by examining case studies,
    • Blunt Trauma and the biomechanics of tissue damage,
    • The effect of body armour on wounding potential of weapons,
    • Use and interpretation of wounding data,
    • Microscopy and micro CT analysis,
    • Practical use of stab/slash/blunt trauma rigs to examine the effect of a variety of weapons,
    • Use of tissue simulants,
    • Weapon identification from wounding patterns in historical cases.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Analyse wounding patterns by individual weapons,
  • Assess trauma patterns in soft tissue and bone,
  • Evaluate the construction of improvised weapons used in criminal activity,
  • Identify and discuss the suitability of tissue simulants,
  • Identify weapon type by wounding patterns.

Introduction to Fire Investigation

Aim

    Understand the nature of fire, its basic principles, and the application of fire investigation in the criminal and civil judicial process. Appreciate the application of fire investigation skills in real world applications and investigations.

Syllabus
    • The basic principles of fire chemistry,
    • Principles of Fire investigation,
    • Photography of fire scenes/dark environments and associated techniques,
    • Ignition sources and their viability,
    • Case studies,
    • Basic crime scene packaging, evidential continuity and recovery of fire scene samples,
    • Basic fire scene debris analysis,
    • The effects of fire on common household items,
    • Practical fire scene investigation and origin and cause determination.
Intended learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module you will be able to:
  • Evaluate the principals of fire,
  • Assess the area of origin and cause of a fire,
  • Examine and analyse fire spread and fire damage patterns,
  • Assess the scientific principals and bias within fire investigation,
  • Evaluate a basic practical fire investigation including photography, packaging, excavation and note taking.

Fire Engineering

Aim

    This module's aim is to understand the application, interpretation and determination of Fire investigation and explosive deflagrations in the criminal, civil judicial process. Another aim is to understand the specific application of fire and explosion investigation skills in real world applications and investigations.

Syllabus
    • Assessment of case studies, Miscarriages of Justice,
    • The Myths of Fire investigation,
    • Electrical Services/Equipment and H&S,
    • Explosive Deflagrations/Bleves,
    • Materials in fire and their behaviours,
    • Ignitable liquids, identification, Analysis and interpretation,
    • Fire modelling/compartment design,
    • Practical complex fire scene with ignitable, liquids/accelerants,
    • Report and statement writing.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate a broad range of fire investigation including electrical fires, arsons, friction, instantaneous combustion and deflagrate,
  • Critique the principals of fire investigation regarding multiple origin and cause and explosive events,
  • Evaluate the area of origin and cause of a fire in multiple events including arsons, electrical, self-heating, friction, instantaneous combustion and deflagrate, Bleve’s,
  • Assess the behaviors’ of different materials within fires e.g. Glass, Timber, Metals,
  • Critically critique fire spread, fire damage and explosive patterns,
  • Compose a written O&C report and be informally cross examined.

Advanced Crime Scene Investigation

Module Leader
  • Dr Hannah Moore
Aim

    The aim of this module is to further students' understanding of the core responsibilities of evidence recording and collection at the crime scene. To develop a deep understanding of the role of a CSI across a range of scenes.

Syllabus
    • Advanced photography,
    • Post-mortem evidence collection,
    • Scene specific evidence collection,
    • Role of SIO in major crime.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Preserve and protect the crime scenes of various natures to ensure integrity of evidence,
  • Compile dynamic forensic strategies between three different crime scenes,
  • Demonstrate the ability to conduct advanced photography of indoor/outdoor crime scenes and mortuary photography to supplement scene attendance notes,
  • Assess and correctly disseminate intelligence of a crime scene.
 

 


Digital Scene Forensics

Module Leader
  • Dr Graeme Horsman
Aim

    This module considers the development and growing importance of digital evidence encountered on the crime scene. It looks in detail at a breadth of digital evidence hosts, including carried and worn devices, ‘the internet of things’ in the home and workspace, mobile location devices and digital CCTV. It considers how such things have altered the balance between novel and traditional forensic examination strategies.

    The series of workshops grouped under Operation Yellow Caiman give participants the opportunity to engage directly with a range of these technologies and understand first hand the nature of the data derived from them.


Syllabus
    • The nature of digital evidence sources on the crime scene,
    • Adaptation of the forensic strategy to integrate digital scene evidence,
    • Vehicle telematics,
    • Cloud-based data storage,
    • The internet of things,
    • Digital devices and rules of disclosure,
    • Mobile phone location,
    • Wearable technology,
    • Case studies.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate the application of an understanding of the breadth of sources of digital evidence and intelligence at the crime scene, and critically assess the value of resulting data,
  • Critically appraise the nature and form of data derived from scene-based sources of digital evidence,
  • Create and adapt a forensic strategy for a major crime scene that can successfully balance novel digital and traditional evidence types, minimising the risk of contamination of either.

 

 



Temporary Mortuary Operations

Module Leader
  • Roland Wessling
  • Dr Mark Viner
Aim
    The aim of the module is to introduce students to the principles of setting up and running a temporary mortuary, enable them to apply those principles in simulation exercises and allow them to learn and progress through reviewing their decisions/actions and discussing and critiquing their pros and cons. Furthermore, students will learn how to present their findings in a formal, legal setting as well as understanding the emotive and sensitive nature of victim identification work.
Syllabus
    • Introduction temporary mortuary setup and operations principles,
    • Documentation of temporary mortuary operations,
    • Setting up a temporary mortuary,
    • Understanding the workflows of a temporary mortuary operation,
    • Operating a temporary mortuary,
    • Collating data from temporary mortuary operations,
    • Preparing data collated for an Identification Commission,
    • Judging how to responsibly advise the ID Commission,
    • Presenting victim identification data formally in a legal setting.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate and critically assess the principles of temporary mortuary setup & operation.
  • Select the best mortuary workflow processes after evaluating the impact of the physical space and equipment available,
  • Judge the efficiency of the mortuary workflows and apply changes to further improve efficiency,
  • Develop the expertise to set up and ru8n a temporary mortuary in any given environment or context,
  • Develop the ability to present sensitive victim identification data in the legal and formal setting of an Identification Commission.

Forensic Imaging

Module Leader
  • Roland Wessling
Aim
    The aim of the module is to introduce students to different types of imaging techniques, enable them to apply those techniques in coordinated exercises and allow them to learn and progress through reviewing their images and discussing and critiquing their pros and cons. Furthermore, students will learn how to use images to their best extent in reporting, enabling them to create not only coursework for this module but also to improve any future report or document through imaging.
Syllabus
    • Introduction to photographic principles,
    • Documentation of imaging operations,
    • Application of basic photographic principles,
    • Understanding creative photography,
    • Forensic photography of a basic crime scene,
    • Forensic photography of an advanced crime scene,
    • Forensic photography of a night-time crime scene,
    • Creating and analysing 3d, photogrammetry models,
    • Microscopic imaging,
    • Radiographic imaging,
    • Use of images in reports and other documentation,
    • Group presentations of selected imaging aspects.
Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate and critically assess the best imaging technique for any situation that needs documenting,
  • Select the best equipment settings and image composition after evaluating a scene to be documented, the purpose and intend of the image and the conditions in which to record the scene,
  • Judge how a scene needs to be documented, what images need to be taken and what they can achieve in final reporting,
  • Develop imaging abilities in future through critiquing images taken and learn from positives and negatives,
  • Improve future reports and other documents by using images to their best effect and full potential.

Your career

The MSc in Forensic Biology offers the skills essential for those who are interested in a career as a practitioner within a forensic laboratory, with focus on the biological aspects of forensic casework.

You can also use your gained skills to progress into careers within other field of the criminal justice system such as working as scene of crime officers or other careers in a laboratory environment.

Cranfield Careers and Employability Service

Cranfield’s Career Service is dedicated to helping you meet your career aspirations. You will have access to career coaching and advice, CV development, interview practice, access to hundreds of available jobs via our Symplicity platform and opportunities to meet recruiting employers at our careers fairs. Our strong reputation and links with potential employers provide you with outstanding opportunities to secure interesting jobs and develop successful careers. Support continues after graduation and as a Cranfield alumnus, you have free life-long access to a range of career resources to help you continue your education and enhance your career.

How to apply

Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to start your online application.

See our Application guide for information on our application process and entry requirements.