University of Lincoln
MSc Forensic Toxicology
Lincoln, United Kingdom
DURATION
1 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
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EARLIEST START DATE
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TUITION FEES
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STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Introduction
Forensic toxicologists use modern analytical procedures to isolate, identify, and quantify drugs, endogenous compounds, and poisonous substances in biological samples.
This programme is designed to provide extensive training in the theory and practice of forensic toxicology and is taught by research-active academics and practitioners with specialist expertise. The content of the course is aligned to guidance from the United Kingdom and Ireland Association of Forensic Toxicologists on best practice in professional training and development in the field.
Teaching aims to put the theory of forensic toxicology into the context of different case types, including criminal, workplace drug testing, sports doping, family law, and death investigation. Students have the opportunity to learn about the processes involved in providing high-quality forensic toxicology evidence, starting from the chain of custody through to the case strategy, preparation of biological samples and advanced instrumental analysis, to interpretation and presentation of evidence.
The specialist skills and technical knowledge that students can acquire may be transferable to roles in laboratory research, clinical drug monitoring, clinical chemistry, law enforcement, border security, and investigatory agencies in the private sector.
How You Study
The composition and delivery of the programme is different for each module and may include lectures, seminars, workshops, independent study, laboratory practicals, research, and one-to-one learning. Following the taught element of the programme, students will be expected to complete a research project in an area related to forensic toxicology.
Postgraduate study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. As a general guide, for every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours on independent study.
How You Are Assessed
Assessment methods used in this course may include coursework, examinations, presentations, and practical sessions. Details of the methods used will be provided in a handbook given to students at the beginning of the academic year.
The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics return in-course assessments to students promptly - usually within 15 working days of the submission date.
Modules
- Advanced Forensic Toxicology (Core)
- Analytical Data Analysis (Core)
- Bioanalytical Methods and Sensor Technologies (Core)
- Chromatography and Mass Spectrometric Methods (Core)
- Forensic Toxicology (Core)
- Method Development and Validation (Core)
- Research Project (Core)
- Professional and Personal Development (Core)
Entry Requirements 2022-23
First or second class honours degree in chemistry or a closely related discipline (forensic chemistry, pharmaceutical science, pharmacy, forensic science, biochemistry) or substantive equivalent experience.
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses.
These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.
"Having completed an undergraduate degree in Forensic Science, studying for an MSc in Forensic Toxicology at the University of Lincoln was the perfect progression towards my career goals. The course provided both hands-on experience and the knowledge required for a future in toxicology. I am most grateful for the support I received while at Lincoln as it was invaluable in helping me pursue my chosen career."
Ciara Tyrell, MSc Forensic Toxicology graduate
Fees and Funding
For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.
Programme-Specific Additional Costs
For each programme, you may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required. Some programmes provide opportunities for you to undertake fieldwork or field trips. Where these are compulsory, the cost of travel and accommodation will be covered by the University and so is included in your fee. Where these are optional, you will normally be required to pay your own transport, accommodation, and general living costs.
With regards to textbooks, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and you will find that our extensive library holds either material or online versions of the core texts that you are required to read. However, you may prefer to purchase some of these for yourself and you will be responsible for this cost.
Research Project and Specialisms
Students in this course will have the opportunity to complete a research project in an area related to forensic toxicology.
Research in the School of Chemistry includes four relevant themes, although collaboration and cross-disciplinary research between these occur at all levels. These themes are forensic chemistry, analytical chemistry, biological chemistry, and environmental chemistry.
Career Opportunities
This programme aims to prepare students for a career in forensic toxicology. The specialist skills and technical knowledge that students have the opportunity to acquire may be transferable to roles in laboratory research, clinical drug monitoring, clinical chemistry, law enforcement, border security, and investigatory agencies in the private sector. Students may also choose to pursue advanced study at the doctoral level.
"This information was correct at the time of publishing (July 2023)"
Gallery
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Curriculum
How You Study
The composition and delivery of the program is different for each module and may include lectures, seminars, workshops, independent study, laboratory practicals, research, and one-to-one learning. Following the taught element of the program, students will be expected to complete a research project in an area related to forensic toxicology.
Postgraduate study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. As a general guide, for every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours on independent study.
How You Are Assessed
Assessment methods used in this course may include coursework, examinations, presentations, and practical sessions. Details of the methods used will be provided in a handbook given to students at the beginning of the academic year.
The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics return in-course assessments to students promptly - usually within 15 working days of the submission date.
Advanced Forensic Toxicology (Core)
In this module, students have the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the fate of toxins within the human body and the analysis of biological specimens that builds upon the knowledge gained from modules previously studied.
Laboratory work will be based upon case work and the development of new methods providing a realistic experience of the role of the forensic toxicologist in legal cases. The use of external practitioners, laboratory visits, and specialist equipment aims to further add to this experience and strengthen the opportunity for employment in this highly competitive field.
Laboratory problems will be less directed and aim to further develop skills in teamwork and independent learning. Students are also expected to develop skills in the interpretation of results and presentation in court, as expected for a professional forensic toxicologist within the present legal system. New method development will be backed up by consideration of research developments across all aspects of the field.
Analytical Data Analysis (Core)
This module aims to develop students' knowledge of the value of statistical data in analytical science and how this data can be used to design experiments alongside extracting meaning from data acquired from analytical experiments. The module will also aim to provide knowledge of statistical software and how to best utilize it to achieve reliable and meaningful results and their presentation in a wide range of professional contexts.
Chromatography and Mass Spectrometric Methods (Core)
This module is designed to develop specialist knowledge in the principles of separation science and hyphenated methods of analysis, principally mass spectrometry. The program introduces instrumental fundamentals, design of experiments, sample preparation, and derivatization. Including case studies related to applications in specialist areas and recent advances.
Specialist knowledge is reinforced by the hands-on practical component and includes the use of the research instrumentation for collecting and analyzing data, troubleshooting, and method development/enhancement. The practical sessions involve following written experimental protocols, working in a small group, and working to deadlines.
Forensic Toxicology (Core)
This module is designed to introduce the main drugs and poisons, biological samples, case types, and laboratory techniques in forensic toxicology. This includes the pharmacology of controlled drugs, prescriptions, and over-the-medications. Students can also acquire knowledge of key forensic concepts such as chain of custody, quality control, and presentation of data. Practicals will focus on sample handling, case strategy, and decision-making in forensic toxicology casework.
Method Development and Validation (Core)
This module comprises two main components:
The first will provide fundamental knowledge concerning strategies for Sampling, Data analysis, Reporting, Quality assurance, and Quality control, Numerical and IT skills, and Safety in relation to analytical science.
The second will provide the general introductory principles and a theoretical understanding of a range of instrumental analytical techniques and their applications. The module aims to provide the background knowledge needed for an understanding of the various principles discussed in greater detail in other modules
Research Project (Core)
This module provides students with the opportunity to apply chemical knowledge and laboratory skills to an extended practical research study. This is designed to further develop professional skills including the use of online literature and chemical data searching, the ability to critically review relevant published literature, and written and oral presentation of research activities.
Professional and Personal Development (Core)
This module aims to develop systematic personal and professional development of a student in a specialist area of chemistry to enhance employability. This is achieved through the development and execution of a personal learning plan designed using a process of self-reflection around five development themes: personal development; professional skills development; technical skills development; research interests; career development.
Program Outcome
- Extensive training in the theory and practice of forensic toxicology
- Taught by research-active academics and practitioners with specialist expertise
- Aligned to guidance from the United Kingdom and Ireland Association of Forensic Toxicologists
- Develop specialist skills and technical knowledge
- Complete a research project in a specialist area
- A focus on professional and personal development
How You Study
Students on this course should typically expect around 350 hours of contact time over the duration of the programe. The amount of contact time will vary depending on the various module option choices chosen.
Postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. For every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours in independent study.
The composition and delivery for the course breaks down differently for each module and may include lectures, seminars, workshops, independent study, laboratory practicals, research, and one-to-one learning.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
This programme aims to prepare students for a career in forensic toxicology. The specialist skills and technical knowledge that students have the opportunity to acquire may be transferable to roles in laboratory research, clinical drug monitoring, clinical chemistry, law enforcement, border security, and investigatory agencies in the private sector. Students may also choose to pursue advanced study at the doctoral level.