Forensic Studies BA (Hons)

Forensic methods are a vital part of the criminal  justice process, with many agencies relying on forensic detection to help solve a range of problems. The programme combines elements of criminology, psychology and archaeology to introduce students to a wide range of applied investigative techniques, grounded in both classic and contemporary theoretical perspectives.The programme develops students' ability to employ the research and analytical skills necessary to critically evaluate social and institutional contexts and differentiate between the theory and practice of forensic science. Students gain experience of making and presenting arguments, understand how to collect data to answer research questions and learn the conventions associated with good academic practice. The development of excellent written and oral communication skills is embedded throughout via a variety of learning, teaching and assessment methods.Subject areas include techniques of forensic investigation, miscarriages of justice in the criminal justice system and forensic psychology.The programme begins by introducing students to the broad scope of forensic science practice, the development of scientific method and theoretical perspectives that are used to understand crime and offenders. As students progress through the programme they encounter increasingly specialised areas of practice that engage forensic scientists. In their final year students undertake their own research project in the form of their dissertation.In Year 1, students are introduced to the core conceptual, theoretical, ethical and practical debates within forensic studies and build the foundation of core skills to enable students to engage with Years 2 and 3.The second year of the programme introduces specific forensic science practices, such as DNA analysis, in more detail and teaches students about key forensic roles, such as forensic anthropology, odontology and the role of forensic medical examiners .In the final year...