Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice and Research)
Program Overview
The Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice and Research) program equips students with expert skills in forensic disciplines, empowering them to collect, interpret, and present forensic evidence effectively. Students engage in hands-on crime scene simulations, and learn from renowned forensic practitioners to prepare for careers in law enforcement, national security, and beyond. The program also offers a 1.5-year Master of Forensics (Professional Practice) option for accelerated completion.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice and Research) is a postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to criminal investigations.
Objectives:
- Develop expertise in collecting, processing, and interpreting biological, chemical, and physical evidence.
- Gain proficiency in specimen preparation, sources of contamination, quality assurance, statistical interpretation, and the admissibility of evidence.
- Master the skills required to prepare and deliver courtroom testimony.
- Conduct a one-year research project to delve deeper into a specific forensic topic, potentially leading to further research and a PhD.
Description:
The program provides a comprehensive understanding of forensic science principles and techniques, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Students will have access to multiple crime scene rooms on and off campus, equipped for various crime scenarios and bloodstain pattern interpretation. They will also have the opportunity to participate in a simulated large-scale homicide and clandestine grave incident at Whitby Falls Farm.
Teaching:
- Students will learn from experienced forensic practitioners with domestic and international experience in thousands of real forensic cases.
- Guest lectures and project co-supervision will be provided by representatives from Australian law enforcement, scientists from forensic biology and chemistry laboratories, and forensic medical practitioners.
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice and Research) will be well-prepared for careers in law enforcement, national security, defense, and other investigative authorities. Potential career paths include:
- Crime Scene or Forensic Investigator
- Forensic Biologist
- Forensic Analyst
- Forensic Researcher (universities or government organizations) Graduates may also find employment in pathology laboratories (such as toxicology, molecular diagnostics, or paternity testing) or establish their own private consultancy.
Other:
- The program also offers a 1.5-year Master of Forensics (Professional Practice) for students who wish to complete their master's degree in a shorter timeframe.
- The program emphasizes the practical application of forensic techniques through hands-on experiences in crime scene rooms and simulated incidents.
- Students will benefit from the expertise of a team of forensic practitioners and guest lecturers from various fields.
Murdoch University
Overview:
Murdoch University is a public university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is known for its focus on practical learning, research, and engagement with the community. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
Murdoch University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university offers a variety of academic support services, such as tutoring, workshops, and online resources.Career Services:
The Careers and Employability team assists students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.Student Support:
The university provides support services for students with disabilities, mental health concerns, and other personal challenges.Library:
The Murdoch University Library offers a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Health and Wellbeing:
The university has a range of health and wellbeing services, including a chiropractic clinic, counselling services, and a psychology clinic.Sport and Recreation:
Murdoch University offers a variety of sporting and recreational activities, including fitness classes, team sports, and outdoor recreation.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Murdoch University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:
A beautiful and spacious campus:
The university's campus is located in a picturesque setting, with plenty of green spaces and modern facilities.A strong sense of community:
The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student clubs and societies.Opportunities for engagement:
Murdoch University encourages students to get involved in research, community service, and other extracurricular activities.Key Reasons to Study There:
Flexible study options:
Murdoch University offers a variety of flexible study options, including online learning, part-time study, and blended learning.Personalised courses:
The university offers a range of personalised courses that cater to individual student needs and interests.Career Learning Spine:
Murdoch University's Career Learning Spine helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers.World-class facilities:
The university has a range of world-class facilities, including a veterinary hospital, a media arts centre, and a state-of-the-art engineering lab.Academic Programs:
Murdoch University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate programs:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs in areas such as business, law, science, engineering, and the arts.Postgraduate programs:
Murdoch University offers a range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and other research degrees.Research:
The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on areas such as food security, health futures, and sustainable development.Other:
- Murdoch Institute of Technology (MIT) courses: Successful completion of one of the following:
- Murdoch University Preparation Course with a minimum of 50% in every subject
- MUPC (1 Trimester)
- Foundation Studies Course with a minimum of 50% in every subject.
- Enabling courses (after Year 12): Successful completion of one of the following:
- OnTrack Flex, OnTrack Sprint or K-Track at Murdoch University.
- Enabling courses (in Year 12): Successful completion of one of the following:
- Murdoch FlexiTrack High Program in Year 12
- TLC Learning for Tomorrow in Year 12
- Evidence of completing Year 11 and 12 in Australia at any level (domestic applicants only), OR
- Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years study at TAFE or an RTO (domestic applicants only), OR
- A STAT Written English score of 140 or higher, OR
- Scaled mark of 50 or higher in one of the following:
- English ATAR
- Literature ATAR
- English as and Additional Dialect (EALD)
- Portfolio entry: A successful portfolio application that demonstrates relevant aptitude and ability in a related learning area.
- GCE A Levels: Minimum of 6 points taken from the best 2 or 3 subjects where A =6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1 (AS Levels are equivalent to half points e.g. A=2.5, B=2 etc.) or higher.
- Western Australian Universities Foundation Program (WAUFP): CPS 54 or higher.
- Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE): Overall Position (OP) of 13 or lower.
- Minimum Selection Rank (WA/ACT/NSW/NT/SA/TAS/VIC): 70
- VET course studied at school: Successful completion of a Certificate IV or higher.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: Total score of 24 or higher.
- Certificate IV AQF level 4: Successful completion of a Certificate IV.
- Diploma or Advanced Diploma AQF level 5-6: Successful completion of a Diploma or Advanced Diploma.
- Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT): Multiple Choice score of 135 (145 if taken prior to May 2010).
- Mature Age Pathway (MAP): MAP involves an interview and a portfolio submission to be assessed by the Academic Chair of the course. Admission is based on relevant work and life experience. Applicants must also meet the English Language Competency requirements for the course.
- University level (AQF Level 7) qualification in Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, “Other Natural and Physical Sciences” or relevant Health related fields (Medical, Veterinary or Dental Studies, Nursing, Pharmacy or “Other Health”).
Crime Science) at the discretion of the Academic Chair. Majors in Criminology or other non-cognate degrees that do not contain units in a Biological or Chemical Science cannot gain direct entry to the M1292 because they have not yet demonstrated scientific competency at tertiary level. These students can apply for consideration by the Academic Chair to enrol in the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) (C1131) or Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) (G1085). Successfully completing 12 credit points in either of these courses will provide students with evidence of scientific competency required for subsequent admission to the M1292. Both C1131 and G1085 are nested programs within the M1292, thus students who successfully complete units within C1131 or G1085 will receive credit for those units if they transfer to M1292.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- You must meet a minimum standard in English to study at Murdoch, which for most courses can be demonstrated by providing evidence that you have completed Year 11 and 12 in Australia at any level if you are a domestic student, or through either English proficiency tests, university preparation courses, English language courses, previous tertiary study or vocational education.
