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FSC-40045 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2026/27 Last Updated: 16 September 2026

FSC-40045 - Forensic Research Skills
Coordinator: Charlene Greenwood Tel: +44 1782 7 32821
Lecture Time:
Level: Level 7
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

This module aims to build on your research skills developed from your Level 6 research project. You will enhance your ability to design and manage a research project. You will use self-reflection on your research skills to enhance your scientific writing skills and will further develop the ability to professionally present the findings of scientific research. These fundamental skills will help you succeed in carrying out your research project under guidance from your supervisor.

Aims
This module aims to develop the student’s research skills required for carrying out their specialised research project in Forensic Science. Comprehensive research skills will provide students with transferable research skillsets needed to successfully complete the course.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/fsc-40045/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate systematic knowledge of forensic scientific data analysis, and to be able to evaluate critically the strengths and weaknesses of statistical methodologies: 1
develop a systematic and comprehensive understanding of the use of digital imaging and graphics techniques for displaying and interpreting forensic science data: 1
understand and develop research, its impact and critically develop research skills to effectively project plan and manage a research project: 1
ability to critically reflect on their own research skills and to identify solutions and become effective independent researchers: 1
Critically evaluate ethical considerations relevant to the design, conduct and dissemination of forensic science research: 2
Demonstrate the ability to communicate and justify ethical decisions in the context of forensic research and practice: 2

Study hours

20 hours of scheduled synchronous in situ sessions.
2 hours of additional drop in clinics.
33 hours of structured engagement with online resources and directed research.
95 hours of independent learning hours preparing for coursework assessments and independent study.

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Reflective Diary weighted 70%
Reflective diary
Reflective diary comprising session summaries and critical reflections on the development of research knowledge, skills and professional practice. Equivalent word count = 3,500 words

2: Essay weighted 30%
Research Ethics Essay
Students will complete a written assessment based on a forensic science research scenario, requiring them to critically consider and discuss relevant ethical, legal and professional issues associated with the conduct of forensic research. Equivalent word count = 1,500 words

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 16 September 2026