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Safety and Accident Investigation MSc (Taught)

Study level:
Postgraduate

Course summary

We have been a centre of excellence in the field of accident investigation for over 40 years. Designed specifically for accident investigators and those working in related fields, this course will provide you with an academically recognised, high standard qualification.

Who is it for?
The MSc in Safety and Accident Investigation allows you to receive an internationally recognised qualification in the field of accident investigation. The majority of students join this course with the intention of receiving a qualification that will allow them to further their career development in accident investigation or other safety related areas of the transport industry.

Why this course?
We have been a centre of excellence for aircraft accident investigation for over 40 years. In 2011, we were awarded a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for our world leading work in aviation safety through research and training in air accident investigation.

An important aspect of this course is the use of hands-on workshops and simulations to develop the practical skills required as an investigator. This is complemented by sessions and modules that enable you to conduct rigorous research and scientific analysis, along with technical writing, investigation and interviewing techniques.

The course format is suitable for professionals based all over the world, as teaching is in modules, and research and assessments can be completed remotely if necessary. Cranfield University is very well located for visiting part-time students from all over the world, and offers a range of library and support facilities to support your studies. This enables students from all over the world to complete this qualification whilst balancing work/life commitments.

Informed by Industry
The Industry Advisory Board for this course is made up of representatives from several organisations who have an interest in safety and accident investigation. The board meets annually to ensure the course content remains relevant and up-to-date.

Course details
The programme commences with attendance on the Accident Investigation module, which may be completed as two three-week modules in Fundamentals of Investigation.

Upon completion of these core modules, you can then select four optional modules (covering core investigation skills, management, engineering, human factors and specialist techniques). Most optional modules are one week and many are offered as standalone short courses.

Prior to starting your Individual Research Project, you are required to attend the final core module, Research Methods and Statistics.

Assessment method

Taught modules 55%, Individual research project 45%

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Entry requirements

The course is primarily aimed at those involved in accident investigation and other safety related industries. Applicants should have a good UK honours degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, or a recognised lower qualification plus relevant work experience in aviation/safety related areas.

Applicants without a good UK honours degree (or equivalent) are encouraged to attend one or two modules (such as Fundamentals of Accident Investigation and Applied Aircraft Accident Investigation) as an Associate Student on a Continuing Professional Development course rather than applying as an MSc student. Please go to the Fundamentals of Accident Investigation CPD webpage.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

LocationFeeYear
Channel Islands£24200Whole course
Republic of Ireland£24200Whole course
EU£24200Whole course
England£22150Whole course
Northern Ireland£22150Whole course
Scotland£22150Whole course
Wales£22150Whole course
International£24200Whole course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

  • Fees can be paid in full up front, or in equal annual instalments. Students who complete their course before the initial end date will be invoiced the outstanding fee balance and must pay in full prior to graduation.
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