This course will provide an understanding of the principles and practical applications of the major analytical techniques used in forensic materials-based investigations.

Our objective is to develop an understanding of a wide range of techniques, including microscopy and X-ray and chemical techniques; to examine their practical application and the interpretation of their results; to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the different techniques and their use in the identification and characterisation of materials.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 10 - 21 Nov 2025
  • Duration10 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • CostShort course £4,500, accredited short course £4,750.

Course structure

This two week course covers the theoretical background of a range of analytical techniques through lectures, workshops, and directed study, and includes 3 days of laboratory practical sessions and demonstration.

What you will learn

On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Appraise the capabilities and limitations of a wide range of analytical techniques to be able to identify the most suitable for the identification and characterisation of forensic and/or archaeological materials,
  • Interpret and evaluate the results of analysis using key laboratory techniques through comparison with other samples and reference material, with appropriate regard to experimental uncertainty,
  • Collate analytical results and compose a clear and concise written report while ensuring traceability of evidence.

Core content

  • X-ray fluorescence (XRF),
  • Electron microscopy (SEM) and micro-analysis,
  • Optical microscopy,
  • Spectroscopic methods: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy,
  • Mass spectrometry (including ICP-MS),
  • Chromatographic and other separation methods: e.g. GC, GC-MS HPLC,
  • DNA analysis and forensic genomics,
  • Isotope analysis and radiocarbon dating,
  • X-ray diffraction (XRD),
  • X-radiography,
  • Hyperspectral imaging,
  • Proteomics.

Credits towards further study

Important notice

Please note we will not be taking registrations for the below courses (MSc, PgDip and PgCert) from the 2026-2027 academic year onwards:

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
Forensic Investigation
Digital Forensics
Counterterrorism, Security and Resilience

This means that we are no longer in a position to transfer credit associated with modules from these courses to Cranfield degree awards. We continue, however, to be able to support credit transfer to other university awards, subject to acceptance by the receiving institution.

This short course forms part of our Forensic programme and when successfully completed as an accredited short course you will gain 20 Cranfield learning credits.

Find out more about accredited short courses.

Who should attend

  • A graduate who is new to the field of forensic analysis
  • A graduate employed in materials science, failure analysis or quality assurance
  • Requires appropriate degree or experience.

Accommodation options and prices

This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found here.  Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the Cranfield campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to Cranfield village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. Cranfield campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
Cranfield
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.