Queen Mudau

Forensic Investigation & Analysis

Sligo

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course:

I am a die-hard fan of NCIS, and have always loved shows like Criminal Minds, CSI, Law & Order and basically anything to do with true crimes. When I saw Forensic Investigation and Analysis at ATU Sligo on my CAO list, it was like a sign! I loved science in secondary school and seeing that this course offered just that and crime-solving, I just knew I had to take the opportunity.

What about the course did you particularly enjoy?

There are loads of things I enjoyed throughout the years, but specifically my final two years really stood out. We had such fascinating modules like Human Genetics, Forensic Molecular Biology and even Crime Scene Management, which were definitely challenging, but so exciting. We did everything from gene sequencing to blood spatter analysis in mock crime scenes.

My personal favourite aspect of the course overall was the hands-on experience. We went to a gun range, analysed gunpowder, worked in labs identifying drug compositions, observed in courtrooms, and even extracted our own DNA. It brought what we had seen in those TV shows into reality, as well as how true or false it all was behind the cameras.

What is the best thing about the course that new applicants should know?

Part of me wants to say everything, but it’s hard to pick just one thing because every part of the journey both the highs and the challenges made it all so memorable. There are too many exciting twists and turns to this course. One standout is how you really become a scientist, putting theory to practise, and you’re guided step by step, throughout all the modules from day one, especially if you’re not fully confident within any of the sciences. Plus, you meet such interesting people along the way, and at the end of it, you get to say, “I’m a forensic scientist.”

Any favourite modules during your time studying?

Forensic Molecular Biology was especially fun even for those who didn’t like biology. We got to extract DNA and study the human genome in-depth. Crime Scene Management was definitely a crowd favourite.  We had guest speakers like crime scene examiners and pathologists who shared real-life case stories. The way in which this module is structured makes the four-year wait totally worth it,  as it is thrilling and super engaging.

What key skills did you learn while studying at ATU that have influenced your career?

ATU provided me with a lot of valuable skills to get me out into the working world and readying me for the career that awaits me. I learnt to be more independent and self-sufficient, as university requires for you to be able to work on you own initiative, which is crucial in any career. I discovered that networking & socialising are great assets, as building connections is more important than you’d think. I gained an understanding that making the most of the resources available to you, whether it’s free support or extra opportunities, it all adds up.

This course gave me a strong foundation of understanding within a broad range of sciences, and I can apply this knowledge to a diverse range of industries, not only forensics.

Can you share some details of your career path to date?

I finished my Leaving Cert Certificate in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic then applied to ATU Sligo through the CAO for the Forensic Investigation & Analysis (Level 8) course. In third year I did my work placement at Sligo University Hospital, where I observed autopsies and cancer screenings. That experience really influenced my future choices. I graduated from the Forensic Investigation & Analysis course in 2024 and went straight into a Level 9 Master’s program, which I’m currently studying and loving.

What does your current role involve?

I am currently doing a Master’s in Clinical Measurement Physiology, which was inspired by my time in the hospital during my undergrad. It is rather interesting as I get to explore different disciplines like neurophysiology, cardiac physiology, and respiratory physiology through placements, similar to Forensics where you get a taste of the areas first then progress into more specifics. Additionally, my current course is quite similar to forensics in the sense that no two days are the same and in that you get to experience different areas before choosing a specialism. Which once again shows you how forensics can open doors to other scientific fields.

What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?

I would tell them to be certain this is something you’re passionate about because while it’s not easy, it is definitely well worth it. If you enjoy science, then this is for sure a good career path for you. All the little tasks that seem to be mundane and amount to nothing do add up in the end, so you should put 110% into everything you do, even on the hardest of days. Overall, aim to stand out in ways that showcase your strengths that’s how you build a successful career.

What did you like best about studying at ATU?

ATU is pretty easy going if you allow it to be. The majority of the lecturers are quite understanding and compared to bigger universities ATU personally felt more “homely”. Lecturers truly take the time to help you to understand any concepts you don’t grasp and in addition you get loads of support and access to resources. There is such a welcoming spirit throughout ATU, and you get to meet people not only from all across the county but from all over the world. A great way to meet new people is through joining clubs and societies which I’d definitely recommend.

Best of all Sligo in particular is a gorgeous place in general, with it’s beautiful beaches that are so easily accessible and is within walking distance of many amazing places to eat, shop and most of all socialise!

What advice would you give a first-year student starting in ATU Sligo?

“Time flies by so fast, so try and enjoy the good, the bad and the ugly, before it’s all just a memory.”