Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary field of applied science, which has many uses in non-medical professional sectors such as law-enforcement, security, museums, commercial archaeology and archiving.
At doctorate level, you’ll be focused on producing a piece of significant original research, which usually involves the study of one or more closely related subjects in parallel, such as chemistry, computer science, criminology, medical science and psychology. Having a strong undergraduate and postgraduate degree in any of these areas is a good basis for doctoral study and since the programme is largely research based, you’ll usually also need to submit a proposal for your topic of investigation.
There are over ten such courses in the UK, and they frequently include built-in specialisms like archaeological, policing or crime scene science.
What to Expect
A non-medical forensic science doctorate involves advanced research, typically involving subjects such as criminal investigations, evidence analysis, chemical analysis, taphonomy and expert testimony. Students conduct original research, contributing to advancements in forensic techniques and methodologies and the course structure typically revolves around the completion of a long-form doctoral dissertation. Assessment can also include essays, presentations and discussion-based methods.
Typically, this qualification takes three to four years to complete on a full-time basis or up to six years if studying part-time. Doctoral graduates emerge with the highest form of qualification within the field and are well-prepared for highly specialised roles in consultancy, management and further research.