European Forensic Educational Network ERASMUS+ Strategic Partnerships project 2014-2017 EFEN

Background to Project Crime is increasingly becoming transnational with many crimes requiring cross-border collaboration The European Union has recently highlighted the need for a single ‘European Forensic Science Area’ (EFSA) Does not cover Forensic Science Education Need for mechanism to share best practice between countries

Background to EFEN In 2012, a Forensic Academic Network (FAN) was created by Avans University (NL) and Staffordshire University (UK) FAN contained 14 partners from across the EU, which included both industry and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) working within the criminal justice system. Six lead partners sought and were successful in obtaining funding for a 3 year project from the ERASMUS+ Strategic Partnership 2014 call

Partners in Project

Project Introduction Aims: To develop an inclusive European network for forensic science education institutions and industry partners to facilitate collaborative research; learning and teaching; EU agendas in forensic science and links between industry and HE. To gain an insight into the current state of forensic and crime science education in Europe To develop a series of fit-for purpose resources incl. a validated postgraduate program, 15 credit module and online open access material in international forensic science, criminal investigations and law. Grant agreement: € 329501 Start date: 1-11-2014 End date: 1-11-2017 Benefits of EFEN Share best practice at European level Linking HE with industry across the EU Collaborative research Facilitate EU funding bids Increase staff and student mobilities

Physical Outputs

International Forensic and Crime Science Education Currently creating an extensive survey of existing educational provision in any aspect of forensic science and criminal investigations across Europe

Main Intellectual outputs for Staffs – Development of a Postgraduate Program in International FS Aim: to offer an insight into forensic science and policing practices across Europe and the rest of the world in order to create awareness of cross-border investigation protocols and provide professional development for individuals planning to work or already working in investigations that involve multiple countries

Postgraduate Program in International Forensic and Crime Science Content informed by practitioner partners, Government reports and student survey 124 UG students surveyed at partner HEIs Investigated preferred topics, skills and activities to be included in the program skills and knowledge they currently have including their aspirations of working in an international setting 72.6% would like to work at an international level within the criminal justice system 85.5% stated that they would need more specific skills 88% believe that having international FS knowledge/skills would make them more employable 75% of the students indicated that they would be interested in studying for the postgraduate International Forensic and Crime Science program

Proposed Modules International Crime Scene Management and Policing Investigations International and European (Forensic Criminal) Law International Forensic Examinations Practical Based Module including assessments of modules 1, 2 and 3

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