COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Forensic Linguistics and Speech Science at Lancaster University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in law enforcement, security, intelligence, and related fields that require expertise in language analysis. Core modules provide a strong foundation in corpus linguistics, speech science, and forensic linguistics, allowing students to examine how language can be used for identification, investigation, and intelligence purposes. Students gain practical experience in methods, ethics, and issues relevant to forensic linguistics, preparing them to handle real-world challenges such as cybercrime, fraud, and disinformation. The program culminates in a dissertation project, giving students the opportunity to conduct independent, research-led work that applies theoretical knowledge to practical investigations. Optional modules, including experimental phonetics and sociolinguistics, allow students to deepen their understanding of speech patterns, variation, and social context, further enhancing their analytical capabilities. Through this combination of theoretical learning, technical skill development, and applied research, graduates acquire the expertise to analyse language and speech evidence critically and effectively. They leave the program prepared to contribute to investigative and security contexts, providing evidence-based insights that support decision-making, legal processes, and intelligence operations, while navigating the ethical and methodological complexities of forensic linguistic work.