Forensic Science - BSc(Hons)
Bachelor's degree
In Bristol
Description
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Type
Bachelor's degree
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Location
Bristol
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Start date
Different dates available
Why study BSc(Hons) Forensic Science?
Forensic scientists apply scientific analysis to criminal and civil investigations, producing evidence that is admissible in a court of law. It is a fascinating and rigorous scientific discipline that will build your knowledge of biology and chemistry, as well as developing advanced problem-solving, data interpretation and communication skills. From crime scene to laboratory to courtroom, studying Forensic Science will provide you with a springboard into a range of exciting careers within the justice system and beyond.
Why study our course?
Accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, BSc(Hons) Forensic Science has been designed in conjunction with professional forensic scientists to provide a deep understanding of the way scientific disciplines are applied to the investigation of crime. Covering crime scene investigation, laboratory analysis, interpretation and evaluation, as well as the presentation of evidence, the course has a strong practical focus with excellent study facilities and the option to choose specialisms.
Real-world experience
Guest lectures from inspirational professionals cover a range of specialist topics throughout the course. You will be encouraged to undertake summer internships, with the option to apply to study abroad for a year. With access to a wide range of forensic instrumentation in our state-of-the-art laboratories, you will also be able to apply your scientific knowledge at simulated crime scenes in our specially adapted Crime Scene House, presenting your evidence and facing questions in a mock courtroom .
Where it can take you
Our graduates have the knowledge and transferable skills that enable them to progress in many different careers from posts with forensic science providers and the Police Service, to positions as laboratory analysts or science teachers. The skills and confidence gained are invaluable in any profession where an analytical approach to...
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
Professional accreditation
BSc(Hons) Forensic Science at UWE Bristol is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences in all the relevant component standards: Crime Scene Investigation, Laboratory Analysis and Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence. We were one of the first universities to be accredited when the scheme started in 2006.
Placements
We will encourage you to apply for paid summer internships in a relevant workplace environment. In Year two, you will also have the chance to apply to spend 12 months abroad, studying at Virginia Commonwealth...
Reviews
Subjects
- Biology
- Teaching
- Interpretation
- Access
- Problem Solving
- Communication Training
Course programme
The course covers three main subject areas:
- biological sciences, especially DNA analysis and the action of drugs on the body
- chemical analysis using all major techniques for the examination of inanimate objects
- Forensic Science topics, such as fingerprinting, document examination and crime scene procedures.
In addition, you will learn about legal aspects of forensic evidence and undertake an independent research project in an area related to Forensic Science. You will search a crime scene at the Crime Scene House, examine the evidence, write a report for court and face questioning on this in a mock courtroom.
Year one
You will study the following compulsory modules:
- Chemistry in Context
- Human Biological Systems
- Scientific Investigation of Crime
- Scientific Skills.
Year two
You will study the following compulsory modules:
- Forensic Analysis
- Law and Expert Evidence
- Drugs and Toxicology.
Plus one of the following modules:
- Forensic Biology and Instrumental Analytical Science
- Molecular Genetics and Medicinal Chemistry.
Final year
You will study the following compulsory modules:
- Forensic Project
- Professional Practices in Applied Science*.
Plus one of the following combinations of modules:
- Advanced Analytical Science and Forensic Analysis and Toxicology
or
- Forensic Biology and Genetics and Genomics Technologies.
You can also study one of the following modules:
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Forensic Psychology.
Plus one from:
- Neuropharmacology
- Science Communication
- Environmental Forensics.
*compulsory module if choose to go on a placement.
A good balanced Forensic Science degree can be obtained through studying one Biology and one Chemistry option in Year two, while undertaking all options for subjects in Year three remains possible.
Alternatively, you will be able to choose a specialist route in Years two and three, which will result in the use of descriptors in your degree title, such as Forensic Science (Biology) or Forensic Science (Chemistry).
Full advice will be given prior to selection on module choices and their implications for careers and membership of the following professional bodies:
The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences
Royal Society of Chemistry
Society of Biology
We strongly recommend that you become an affiliate (student) member of the relevant professional bodies during your study.
The University continually enhances our offer by responding to feedback from our students and other stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum is kept up to date and our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for the real world. This may result in changes to the course. If changes to your course are approved, we will inform you.
Learning and TeachingLearning on the course takes place through lectures, tutorials, workshops and laboratory work. As a Department, we have long-established links with the Avon and Somerset Constabulary Scientific Investigations and a local Home Office Forensic Pathologist, with professionals covering a range of aspects of forensic science giving guest lectures during the course. You will have access to a range of dedicated computer rooms for the development of your ICT skills, including the use of electronic media assisted teaching. There will be an emphasis on problem solving approaches, as this is in the nature of forensic science, together with the importance of the communication of scientific findings. The crime scene house and outdoor crime scene areas will be used and, in your final year, you will have the opportunity to search a scene, examine the evidence, write a report as for court and face questioning on it in the mock courtroom.
For more details, see our full glossary of learning and teaching terms.
AssessmentYour coursework will be assessed in all three years and there will also be examinations in all modules, although the assessments in Year one will not contribute to your final degree mark. A variety of assessment methods will be used to reflect the range of theoretical concepts, knowledge and practical skills developed during the course. Your Final year project will be assessed.
For more details, see our full glossary of assessment terms.
Forensic Science - BSc(Hons)