This course is recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry
This course is accredited by the Forensic Science Society
International Applicants:
For international students who need additional preparation before they can access this degree, we offer the Foundation Diploma/Diploma in Forensic Science. These are respectively 4 and 3 terms preparation programmes which will allow you to progress directly to the second year of this degree.
Click here for further information about international foundation programmes...
Introduction
Forensic science is the application of science to law and its enforcement.
The degree will appeal to those with an interest in the application of science to the investigation and analysis of evidence. The programme provides an intellectually challenging study of a full range of forensic applications. It consists of a varied but well balanced combination of subjects including crime scene investigation techniques, advanced chemical and microbiological analysis and specialist areas such as forensic entomology and forensic anthropology. It fulfils the growing demand for expertise in investigatory, enforcement and monitoring work, including incident scene investigation, physical evidence collection, laboratory analysis of evidence and defence of testimony.
Course Content
Level 1
- Introductory Chemistry
- Quantitative Methods in Science
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Introductory Biology
Level 2
- Analytical Techniques
- Anatomy, Physiology and Post-mortem Processes
- Drugs of Abuse
- Advanced Crime Scene Investigation & Analysis
- Forensic Molecular Biology
Level 3
- Forensic Anthropology
- Applied Forensic Analysis
- Forensic Toxicology
- Fire & Explosion Investigation
- Independent Study
- Forensic Entomology
Careers
A degree course in forensic science emphasises the development of analytical and problem-solving skills which are very relevant to a wide range of employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors. There are significant demands for forensic science skills from law enforcement organisations (police, customs, environmental health) and investigatory agencies. After three years experience as a court reporting scientist, forensic scientists usually become eligible to apply for registration with the Council for the Registration of Forensic Practitioners, a professional regulatory body that manages a register of currently competent forensic practitioners.
Specialist Research Areas
- Fingerprint Science
- Forensic Toxicology
- Forensic Entomology
- Chemical-profiling
- DNA-profiling
- Forensic Imaging
- Wound ballistics
- Forensic conservation and heritage science
- Ancient DNA
Postgraduate Opportunities
The Department of Forensic and Biomedical Sciences offers a variety of postgraduate qualifications:
MSc Forensic Conservation (Heritage Science)
MPhil / PhD by Research in all specialist research areas
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science Fees
| UK/EU | International | |
| Full-time | £3290 per year (£5600 for ELQ students) | £10,914 per year |
| Part-time | £16 per credit point (£47 per credit point for ELQ students) | £91 per credit point |
| Placement (optional) | TBC | £5457 per year |
| Assessment | £8 per credit point | £45 per credit point |
Fees shown are for 2010/11 entry only and subject to change