University of East Anglia (UEA), MChem (Hons), Forensic and Investigative Chemistry

This four year integrated Master’s degree in chemistry offers a different approach to the teaching of Forensic skills which we consider appropriate to the requirements of employers both in the Forensic Sector and in Analytical Chemistry generally.

The Forensic and Investigative Chemistry course covers all the material taught in a standard Chemistry degree, ensuring that students have the essential background chemistry and practical skills that Forensic Providers and other employers expect of any Chemistry graduate. Students emerge with detailed knowledge and experience synthetic, inorganic physical and analytical chemistry, including spectroscopic techniques.

Running alongside this are Forensic Chemistry modules, designed by a forensic practitioner with thirty years experience. All the basic skills required of a Forensic Scientist are included; crime scene investigation in our dedicated scene building; collection of evidence; practical analysis; genetics and DNA analysis; interpretation of evidence; statement writing and court presentation.

Teaching on these modules is done by posing interesting and challenging problems in the form of simulated casework. Students have to solve the crime using their chemical knowledge and interpretation skills and then present their reasons in writing and verbally, either to their colleagues or to a staged court; in the final year they face trainee barristers who challenge their understanding of the science. In this way we provide practical training in critical thinking, a skill that will be highly prized in research and practitioner institutions alike.