Master of Science - Forensic Science (Research)

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 60% or higher in the previous academic degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 21.
• PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Auckland offers various scholarships specifically designed to support and encourage international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students from around the world and provide financial assistance to help them achieve their educational goals at the university.

Merit-Based Scholarships: The University of Auckland offers merit-based scholarships recognizing academic excellence. These scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements in their previous studies, supporting them throughout their undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

Need-Based Grants: For students facing financial challenges, the university provides need-based grants to assist with tuition fees or living expenses. These grants aim to ensure that deserving students have the opportunity to pursue their education without financial constraints.

Research Scholarships: The university also offers research scholarships for international students interested in pursuing research-based programs. These scholarships support students engaged in innovative research projects and contribute to the university's academic research endeavors.

Country-Specific Awards: Additionally, the University of Auckland provides scholarships specifically designated for students from certain countries. These awards aim to promote cultural diversity and international collaboration by attracting students from diverse geographical backgrounds.

Graduates of the Master of Science in Forensic Science (Research) program at the University of Auckland possess specialized knowledge and research skills in forensic science, enabling them to pursue diverse career opportunities in the field of forensic investigation, law enforcement, and scientific analysis. 

Forensic Scientist: Graduates can work as forensic scientists, conducting analyses on physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as DNA, trace evidence, fingerprints, or toxicology, and presenting findings in court proceedings.

Crime Scene Investigator: Graduates may pursue careers as crime scene investigators, collecting and analyzing evidence from crime scenes, documenting findings, and collaborating with law enforcement to reconstruct events.

Forensic Toxicologist: With expertise in toxicology, graduates can work as forensic toxicologists, analyzing bodily fluids or tissues for drugs, alcohol, or poisons, providing expert testimony in legal cases.

Forensic DNA Analyst: Graduates may specialize in forensic DNA analysis, processing and interpreting DNA samples to identify suspects or victims in criminal investigations.

Forensic Pathologist Assistant: Graduates can work as forensic pathologist assistants, assisting in autopsies, documenting injuries, and gathering evidence for forensic pathology analysis.

Forensic Laboratory Technician: Graduates can pursue roles as laboratory technicians, working in forensic laboratories, conducting tests, maintaining equipment, and assisting in evidence analysis.

Crime Intelligence Analyst: With analytical skills, graduates can work as crime intelligence analysts, interpreting data, trends, and patterns to assist law enforcement agencies in crime prevention strategies.

Digital Forensics Specialist: Graduates may specialize in digital forensics, analyzing digital devices for evidence of cybercrime, retrieving data, and providing expert testimony in digital investigations.

Forensic Consultant: Graduates can work as forensic consultants, providing specialized expertise to legal firms, law enforcement agencies, or private organizations in various aspects of forensic science.

Forensic Researcher/Academic: With a focus on research, graduates may pursue academic or research roles in universities, contributing to advancements in forensic science through scientific research and education.