UNiversity of dundee

A dynamic collaboration between the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification and Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, the MSc’s in Medical Art and Forensic Art and Facial Imaging are professional masters programmes where students study a number of shared modules as well as modules designed specifically for either chosen concentration. The programmes have been developed in response to the need for the provision of support for the satisfactory transition from undergraduate study to the establishment of professional practice within contemporary forensic and medical art fields. They recognises that in common with many academic areas of study students who have successfully completed a first degree need further specialised training in order to enter the world of work. In addition, professionals within the UK police force or NHS require qualification, validation expansion, and specialisation of their skills to conform with medico-legal procedures and for registration with professional bodies.

Both programmes aim to produce professionals who can work at the leading edge of the genres and will provide a supportive environment to nurture innovative and creative ideas whilst working closely with relevant professional bodies and industry experts.

Semester 1 (60 credits)

Both programmes share a common first semester, before specialising from semester two. In semester 1 the focus is on learning anatomy through dissection, prosecution study, illustration and facial sculpture and applying this to life art practice. Students will also be introduced to research methods and conduct a journal review.

• Anatomy: Body Systems (20 credits)
• Anatomy: Head and Neck (20 credits)
• Life Art (10 credits)
• Research Methods (10 credits)

Medical Art
Medical Art is the depiction of anatomy, medical science, pathology and surgery. This may include illustrations, diagrams, 3D models or animations for use in medical education, specialist training, public communication, medico-legal evidence, and medical research.

Semester 2 (60 credits)

In semester 2 the students specialise in medical art through two subject specific modules. Medical Art 1: Contemporary Theory and Practice, consists of a series of lectures and workshops giving students an overview of contemporary medical art practice while teaching a variety of practical skills including digital illustration, 3D modelling and working with CT and laser scan data. During Medical Art 2: Communication and Education, students will gain experience of working with other professionals. They will have opportunity to observe surgery and work with anatomy staff within CAHID to produce two self-direct projects.

• Medical Art 1: Contemporary Theory and Practice (30 credits)

• Medical Art 2 – Communication and Education (30 credits)

On successful completion of Semesters 1 and 2 there is an exit award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Art.

Forensic Art
Forensic Art encompasses a wide range of subjects, including craniofacial anthropology and identification, traditional and virtual-sculptural forensic facial reconstruction, craniofacial superimposition, post-mortem depiction, composite art and artificial age-progression.

Semester 2 (60 credits)

This period is split over two modules covering the various elements of Forensic Art and Facial Imaging. The first module, Forensic Art Techniques aims to provide training in the theory and practice of various aspects of forensic art. Through a series of lectures and workshops, students learn a variety of techniques related to facial imaging, analysis, comparison, and enhancement as well as creating facial images to aid both the identification of the living and the dead. The second module, Applications of Forensic Art, aims to encourage students to consider the different applications of forensic art techniques to the creation of non-forensic artwork. This can include archaeological and paleo-anthropological facial reconstructions, fine art facial sculpture, portrait painting, special effects, facial prosthetics, and more.

• Forensic Art Techniques (30 credits)
• Applications of Forensic Art (30 credits)

On successful completion of Semesters 1 and 2 there is an exit award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Art and Facial Imaging.

Semester 3 (60 credits)

All students undertake an individual self-direct project resulting in a dissertation and exhibition.

To Apply
Applicants require:

1. 2.1 (or equivalent) or higher in an art degree.
2. 2.1 (or equivalent) or higher in an appropriate medical science degree*

All applicants will need to provide an appropriate portfolio of artwork and be able to demonstrate a high standard of English. Applicants with other qualifications or relevant experience will also be considered.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate a high standard of English.
* (eg: anatomy, anthropology, archaeology, dentistry, biology, forensic science, genetics, medicine, sociology).

Further information

MSc Medical Art
Dr Caroline Erolin
Centre for Anatomy & Human Identification
c.d.erolin@dundee.ac.uk
+44 (0)1382 388352

MSc Forensic Art and Facial Imaging
Dr Tobias Houlton
Centre for Anatomy & Human Identification
thoulton001@dundee.ac.uk
+44 (0)1382 384271