A specialisation is a focused collection of courses within a programme that allows you to gain deep, targeted knowledge in a specific sub-field. Normally these courses make up more than 50 percent of a qualification, some of which lead to registration within a certain field. They may be interdisciplinary, professionally oriented, or designed to meet accreditation requirements. Specialisations often restrict elective choice in favour of a clearly defined study plan.

Completed specialisations will appear on your academic transcript.

Please see the main programme link below for further details.

As our knowledge and technical expertise in science increases, so does the complexity and importance of the science presented to the courts in the legal system.

The Forensic Science programme is jointly run by the University of Auckland and the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) (the suppliers of forensic science to the New Zealand Police). Students benefit from expert guest lecturers, including Crown Prosecutors and independent forensic practitioners.

MSc - Master of Science

Forensic Science covers a broad range of topics, from the statistical evaluation of glass evidence to the development of new molecules to aid in the visualisation of fingerprint residues. You will learn key skills in forensic searching and chemical and biological analysis.
Research interests open to exploration can include:
- Environmental forensic science
- Field science
- Forensic biology
- Illicit drugs
- Physical evidence