Forensic heroes

NUS’ new Master of Science in Forensic Science will help its students step up as the next generation of leaders in Singapore’s forensic science sector

By Kenneth Goh

July 7, 2020

Fans of television crime shows like CSI and Criminal Minds may think the study of forensics involves just the analysis of evidence at crime scenes.

But Singapore’s first — and only — forensic science master’s programme will take its students beyond that.

The Master of Science (MSc) in Forensic Science, offered by the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) Faculty of Science, will bring together the disciplines of law and science, says Associate Professor Stella Tan, academic director of NUS’ Forensic Science Programme.

She adds that it aims to impart knowledge in many areas such as forensic digital evidence, and forensic psychiatry and psychology.

Introduced to nurture the next generation of leaders in Singapore’s forensic science sector, the programme will see its first intake next month.

Multidisciplinary learning

Its robust curriculum harnesses state-of-the-art technology and research that deep-dives into specialised topics like the use of IT in crime scenes and the study of forensic entomology.

Students will also get to undergo experiential learning with field experts from law enforcement agencies such as the Singapore Police Force and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Key modules include Forensic Defense Science, which covers anti-terrorism and countering novel threats such as the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The module gives students the rare opportunity of experiencing first-hand MHA’s operational forensic laboratories at checkpoints at Singapore’s borders.

Another module is Advanced CSI Techniques, which delves into the management of forensic evidence in crime scene investigations.

Prof Tan says the collaborations with key industry players is an important element in the programme. “This graduate programme offers upgrading opportunities to current officers in forensic science or related criminal justice areas,” she says.

“By collaborating with key industry players, students can learn specialised and transferable knowledge and skill sets to meet the future needs of Singapore’s forensic field.”

Visit scale.nus.edu.sg/programmes/graduate/msc-forensic-science for more information about the Master of Science (MSc) in Forensic Science programme.