Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

What you will study

You’ll study modules such as:

Stage one

Induction Module - This module is designed to prepare students for the undergraduate programmes by providing an online environment in which students can become proficient in the skills required for Higher Education study

Genetics‌ - You will gain a broad introduction to, and basic understanding of, the key concepts in classical and molecular genetics

Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation - You will be introduced to the fundamental concepts, techniques and processes used in the examination, documentation and analysis of the crime scene and specialist examinations

Introduction to Forensic Chemistry‌ - This module covers core aspects of chemical theory and practical techniques that form an important foundation for forensic chemical analysis

Introduction to Forensic Science‌ - You will be provided with a broad introduction to the fundamental concepts, techniques and processes used in the collection, processing, analysis and storage of forensic evidence and data

Law, Criminology and Criminal Justice for Forensic Science‌ - You will gain a broad introduction to English Criminal Justice, the Police and Crime Scene Support, the Expert Witness and providing evidence to the court, basic statistics for Forensic Scientists to evaluate evidential value as well as an understanding of the key concepts of classical and contemporary criminology

Chemistry of Life - You will be introduced to the basic concepts of chemistry and how molecules are used in the functioning of the cell unit and its biochemical processes

Stage two

Preparing for Independent Research - The module will prepare students for their Independent Studies research project undertaken at level 6 and deliver important information regarding research design and ethics

Crime Scene to Court‌ - Students will develop the skills necessary for the full investigation of the crime scene, laboratory examination through to the presentation of this evidence in a court room scenario

Molecular Biology - You'll develop an understanding of the molecular basis of fundamental biological and forensic processes, such as transcription and translation

Forensic Analysis‌ - You will develop an understanding of the core analytical chemistry techniques used in the identification and quantification of substances of forensic interest

Trace Evidence‌ - This module gives the student insight into how trace evidence is used in forensic investigation

Optional modules:

Analytical Chemistry‌ - This module introduces you to some of the methods used for quantitative chemical analysis, with reference to their relevance in forensic science

Forensic Anthropology‌ - Using skeletal remains to assist in human identification this module provides an introduction to the practice of Forensic Anthropology

Forensic Imaging‌ - This module develops the student’s ability to use a wide range of imaging scientific techniques and modalities to analyse and record forensic evidence

Wildlife Crime and Forensic Entomology - You will gain specialist knowledge of two fields of forensic science in relation to non-human evidence

Industrial Placement Year (optional)

This course offers an ‘Industrial Placement Year’ giving you the opportunity to enhance your practical skills by putting theory into practice, network in your industry and stand-out in the graduate job market. The placement year takes place in your third year, once completed, you would return to University to complete your final year of studies.

• Applied Professional Practice
• Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

Stage three

Independent Studies for Forensic Science - You will undertake an independent piece of work of your choosing (subject to approval). This module is a continuation of personal skill development initiated in Stages 4 and 5

Serious and Organised Crime - Using recent forensic research, police protocols, guides and criminal law, students will study current approaches and techniques in serious and organised crime investigation

Professional Practice‌ - You will act as a professional Forensic Scientist in various aspects of the profession including Crime Scene Investigation, Laboratory manager and evidence examination, Pre-trial and court appearance as an Expert Witness

Optional modules:

Medical Forensics‌ - This module provides an overview of processes that occur after death and how they can be used to give temporal, causal and trace evidence in forensic investigations

Toxicology and Drugs of Abuse‌ - This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the multidisciplinary field of toxicology, from the biological and biochemical processes which occur when a poison is administered to the chemical analysis of toxicological samples

The Human Genome‌ - We take a tour around the human genome, you will learn how it can be used and applied to answer questions ranging from human evolution to forensic biology

Vocational Module - The student has freedom to select an appropriate host organisation to undertake a placement within a company, voluntary body or public establishment