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Forensic Science with Psychology BSc (Hons)
Bachelor's degree
Online
Description
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Type
Bachelor's degree
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Methodology
Online
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Duration
3 Years
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Online campus
Yes
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Delivery of study materials
Yes
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Support service
Yes
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Virtual classes
Yes
Balance forensic science skills with insights into the criminal mind and criminal behaviour on this fascinating course.
100% of our BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Psychology students are satisfied with teaching on the course, overall quality of the course and learning opportunities (National Student Survey 2019)
Forensic Science at Derby is ranked third in the UK for student satisfaction with teaching, Guardian University Guide 2020
Forensic Science at Derby is ranked in the Top 10 for student satisfaction in The Complete University Guide 2019 and Top 10 for student experience according to the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018
Study a programme which sets high professional standards: this couse is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences
Boost your future prospects: our BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Psychology course opens doors to exciting career opportunities not only in forensic science but also in the worlds of criminal justice and law
Gain practical skills in our outstanding facilities, from a Forensic Training Facility to psychological observation suites and courtrooms
Benefit from our strong links with the police, emergency services and hospitals
You will have the opportunity to undertake work-based learning in a forensic imaging unit, footwear unit or forensic analytical service laboratories with our partner East Midlands Scientific Operations Unit (EMSOU)
About this course
Forensic science at Derby gives you a solid foundation for success in a challenging and pioneering profession. You could pursue your career in the forensic science sector, criminal justice system, insurance companies or any industry where a good science degree is invaluable.
Our graduates now work in roles such as scenes of crime officers, analytical chemists, forensic laboratory technicians, forensic intelligence analysts, microbiologists and PCR analysts. They are employed by police forces as well as companies like SOCOTEC, Cellmark, Minerva Scientifics, Rolls-Royce, Lubrizol and LGC Forensics.
This course has a strong reputation for producing highly employable graduates as well as providing a firm foundation for postgraduate level learning. As it is an applied science course, it equips you to progress onto MSc, MRes, MPhil or PhD study. Some students also go on to teaching careers within secondary or further education after studying our PGCE Post-14 (Education and Training) qualification.
GCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification
Reviews
Subjects
- IT Law
- Police
- Psychology
- Teaching
- Imaging
- Law
- University
- Introduction
- Programmes
- Environment
- Environmental Health
- Documentation
Course programme
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 Research Methods in Psychology - You will be introduced to the relationship between theory and data in both quantitative and qualitative research and learn key principles of research methods and design
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
Does Psychology Matter? - You will use a number of key topic to explore how psychologists discuss and debate critical issues
Qualitative Methods: The Individual in Society - You will explore the different insights which qualitative approaches bring to the area of individual differences
Trace Evidence - This module gives the student insight into how trace evidence is used in forensic investigation
Qualitative Methods: The Individual in Society - You will explore the different insights which qualitative approaches bring to the area of individual differences. The range of philosophical orientations and methodological approaches to consider ways in which the individual and their engagement with the social world can be explored from a qualitative perspective.
Optional modules:
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
Molecular Biology - You'll develop an understanding of the molecular basis of fundamental biological and forensic processes, such as transcription and translation
Psychopathology: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Issues - The module aims to develop in students a critical understanding of the main forms of mental illness from a psychological perspective
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
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:
Forensic Applications of Psychology - You will be introduced to the application of psychology to our understanding of criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system. Students will leave the module with a rounded understanding of how psychology has been applied, and can further be applied, to the criminal justice system and explanations of crime and offender behaviour.
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
The Dark Side of Psychology - This module explores the dark and hidden history of psychology which is often neglected in conventional textbooks. Psychology’s claim to be an objective science is critically examined with an exploration of topics such as scientific racism and sexism. Furthermore, this module explores the ways in which psychology has been used to legitimise the oppression of certain groups within society.
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
Additional information
£9,250 per year (2020/21)
International fee
£14,045 per year (2020/21)
Forensic Science with Psychology BSc (Hons)