Centre for Forensic Science at the University of Western Australia

Our students are exposed to a variety of disciplines in forensic science, including entomology, anthropology, DNA, chemistry and pathology. We have also expanded into other activities, such as criminal cold case reviews, forensic consultancy, teaching abroad and hosting international conferences on a variety of forensic issues.

Postgraduate

Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science

This multidisciplinary course acquaints students with current developments in basic forensic sciences and particularly those related to criminal investigation.

The course uses the research and teaching of the University to address the public and industry needs of WA and beyond. The course provides a holistic introduction to a variety of forensic science disciplines and is suitable for those who do not necessarily meet the criteria for admission to the Graduate Diploma.

Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science

The program consists of both coursework and research components and exposes students to a broad range of disciplines that carry the potential for significant practical application.

You will gain hands-on experience in the analysis of material associated with a crime scene, use techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, experience chemical analytical techniques including inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and learn how to employ DNA sequencing using specific genomic markers. In addition you will conduct field experiments with animal carcasses as human models.

As part of your Case Study, you will be required to attend workshops in the areas of criminal justice and expert evidence. This independent research project is specifically designed to enable students to understand both the criminal justice system and the process of presenting evidence as an expert witness within a courtroom.

Master of Forensic Science (coursework)

The Master of Forensic Science combines coursework units in a variety of forensic disciplines with research in a specialist area of your choice.

You will gain an interdisciplinary introduction to many forensic science disciplines, including DNA, entomology, anthropology and chemical instrumentation. Students are also given the opportunity to research a particular topic in more detail, and gain experience in the criminal justice system and expert evidence in the Case Study unit. You will also complete a dissertation on a specific topic of your choice, enabling you to develop your research skills. The completion of the Case Study encourages you to apply the skills you have learnt in a mock court setting. You will also have the chance to select units from other faculties to complement or broaden your forensic science knowledge.

Combined Master of Forensic Science and Doctor of Philosophy

This course enables students to simultaneously undertake a PhD (in their chosen discipline) and a Master of Forensic Science. Students will graduate with both a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Forensic Science.