Master of Forensic Science (Extension)

The Master of Forensic Science (Extension) is one of Australia's leading qualifications in this niche scientific discipline, combining hands-on advanced forensic science practice with high-level professional and research skills acquisition. Our research-informed curriculum is focused on highly practical, case-based activities that take place in world-class facilities designed to replicate real forensic science environments. These include our acclaimed Crime Scene Simulation Labs and other professional laboratories stocked with the latest industry-standard equipment.

As an extension degree, this course includes an additional 24 credit points of electives beyond the standard Master of Forensic Science curriculum and can be completed in two years of full-time study. It is focused on developing students for leadership roles in forensic science. Curriculum is informed by leading academics and practitioners in the internationally acclaimed UTS Centre for Forensic Science, as well as by real-world organisations. As such, course content reflects the needs and priorities of the global forensic science profession.

Explore the Master of Philosophy in Science

Students who achieve a credit average in their first year of study can apply to transfer into the Master of Philosophy in Forensic Science. This highly specialised degree combines coursework subjects with an immersive research project, providing a pathway to a PhD. Students seeking a shorter course of study should consider the UTS Master of Forensic Science.

Course features

• Forensic Science subjects: Students complete two core subjects (Foundations of Forensic Science and Forensic Inference and Interpretation) designed to help them develop the practical, interpretive and investigative skills required to thrive in a forensic science career. From there, they can shape their degree by building specialist skills in domains of their choosing, from forensic toxicology and recreational drug analysis to biometrics, chemical criminalistics and more.
• Professional subjects: Students complete two core subjects common to many UTS postgraduate science degrees (Advanced Communication Skills in Science and Understanding Data and Statistical Design). They can then customise their remaining professional stream credit points with choices in science writing, risk assessment, business and intellectual property, and more, preparing them to master new ways of working in a diversity of professional environments.
• Research subjects: A research internship elective provides hands-on experience with a real-world forensic science challenge, either within a UTS lab, including the renowned Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research, or with external forensic science and criminal justice organisations, among others. Students also gain exposure to the administrative components of scientific research through additional electives in human and animal research ethics, research proposal writing and more.