Advance your scientific practice by mastering the analytical methods at the core of forensic investigation.
Why study postgraduate Forensic Analytical Science?
Forensic Analytical Science explores how scientific evidence can reveal origin, authenticity, and change across biological, chemical, and environmental systems. It moves beyond traditional crime scene work to address questions that matter in food security, biosecurity, environmental protection, and regulatory science.
At postgraduate level, you’ll deepen your understanding of forensic biology and forensic chemistry, including DNA analysis, spectroscopy, and traceability techniques. These tools are central to understanding where materials come from, how they have been altered, and what that means in legal, commercial, and regulatory contexts. The subject develops your ability to evaluate evidence critically, work with precision, and understand how analytical science supports decision-making.
Career opportunities
Graduates of Forensic Analytical Science develop skills that are valued across scientific and technical sectors where accuracy, analysis, and evidence-based thinking matter. Possible career pathways include:
- Forensic science and analytical laboratories
- Government or regulatory science roles
- Environmental or chemical analysis
- Research and postgraduate study
- Quality assurance and scientific consultancy
What it’s like to study at this level
You will learn through a mix of advanced coursework, practical laboratory experience, and independent analysis that reflects real forensic workflows. Teaching focuses on applying theory to practice, building confidence with analytical techniques, and developing the ability to interpret complex data clearly and responsibly.
You’ll work closely with academic staff and peers, engage in problem solving exercises, and refine your scientific communication skills. Throughout the programme, you’ll be encouraged to think critically, ask informed questions, and connect your learning to contemporary forensic challenges.
This is for you if ...
If you have obtained a Bachelor of Science degree and have an interest in analytical methods, problem solving, and careful scientific reasoning, this subject may be a good choice.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Forensic Analytical Science as an undergraduate at Otago.
Thinking beyond the evidence
Forensic Analytical Science is suited to students who enjoy careful reasoning, pattern recognition, and working with detail. It rewards curiosity, patience, and the ability to ask the right questions when answers are not immediately obvious.
This field is about more than generating results. It is about understanding context, recognising uncertainty, and communicating scientific findings clearly and responsibly. Graduates develop a way of thinking that is valued wherever accuracy, integrity, and evidence-based judgement are essential, from science and regulation to industry and research-focused careers.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, masters’, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons))
A four-year degree focusing on advanced study and culminating in a research project in the final year
Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science (PGDipAppSc)
A two-semester programme, building on an Applied Science degree, that can be completed in two blocks (certificate, then diploma) or in one continuous run
Graduate qualifications
Our graduate qualifications are crafted to transition students from foundational studies to advanced, specialised knowledge.
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
FORS papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FORS201 | 2026 | Analytical and Forensic Science | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| FORS301 | 2026 | Analytical Forensic Biology | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| FORS401 | 2026 | Application of Forensic Science | 20 points | Semester 1 |
| FORS490 | 2026 | Forensic Analytical Science | 60 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 11 June 2027) |
Contacts
Dr Charlotte King
Tel +64 3 479 7374
Email charlotte.king@otago.ac.nz
This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.
Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
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