Clearing offers from 56 UCAS tariff points. Subject-specific requirements still apply. See the entry requirements section for details.
Forensic chemistry is the application of scientific knowledge and investigation to law enforcement. From identifying substances to analysing crime scenes, the skills of a forensic chemist often play a vital role in criminal investigations.
This course offers a comprehensive study of chemistry integrated with forensic specialisms, including DNA analysis, biological chemistry, and forensic toxicology, so that students can develop an in-depth understanding of forensic chemistry and fundamental science.
On the MChem, the study experience is extended through a full-year industrial placement which may be with one of the University's industry or overseas partners, or in one of our research groups. Placements are conducted alongside advanced academic study, focusing on research frontiers in chemistry. Students are supported when finding and undertaking a placement.
The School of Chemistry takes a research-centred approach to teaching and learning, and students have the chance to work with academics on collaborative research projects.
Forensic chemistry is the application of scientific knowledge and investigation to law enforcement. From identifying substances to analysing crime scenes, the skills of a forensic chemist often play a vital role in criminal investigations.
This course offers a comprehensive study of chemistry integrated with forensic specialisms, including DNA analysis, biological chemistry, and forensic toxicology, so that students can develop an in-depth understanding of forensic chemistry and fundamental science.
On the MChem, the study experience is extended through a full-year industrial placement which may be with one of the University's industry or overseas partners, or in one of our research groups. Placements are conducted alongside advanced academic study, focusing on research frontiers in chemistry. Students are supported when finding and undertaking a placement.
The School of Chemistry takes a research-centred approach to teaching and learning, and students have the chance to work with academics on collaborative research projects.
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Through accreditation, the Royal Society of Chemistry aims to promote good practices in the university education of chemical scientists, and ensure that future practising scientists are knowledgeable and competent.
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✔ High student satisfaction Subject area ranked 2nd in the UK for student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2025 (out of 48 ranking institutions).
✔ Combine chemistry with real-world investigation Study how chemistry is used to analyse evidence, identify substances, investigate criminal activity, and support forensic and scientific work.
✔ Gain an integrated master’s qualification Graduate with an advanced qualification that combines undergraduate and master’s-level study, helping you prepare for specialist scientific careers or further research.
The MChem year adds further professional development through advanced options such as Fire and Explosions, Advanced Forensic Toxicology, Method Development and Validation, or Bioanalytical Methods and Sensor Technologies, alongside a substantial Academic or Commercial Research Project.
✔ Develop advanced laboratory skills Build experience using analytical instrumentation, laboratory techniques, and scientific investigation methods used across forensic and chemical industries.
This structure helps students develop as more confident, competent, and independent chemists/scientists, with a clearer sense of how their skills fit research, industry, analytical laboratories, and forensic settings.
✔ Explore specialist forensic applications Apply chemistry to areas such as toxicology, drug analysis, trace evidence, environmental forensics, analytical chemistry, and instrumental analysis.
✔ Learn through practical scientific investigation Develop the ability to collect, analyse, interpret, and communicate scientific evidence using professional laboratory and research practices.
✔ Build career flexibility Forensic chemistry graduates can pursue opportunities across forensic science, analytical chemistry, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, research, and wider scientific industries.
The final year can also provide a more seamless route towards research- or industry-facing work, and project pathways may lead to the award titles MChem Forensic Chemistry (Research Placement) or MChem Forensic Chemistry (Industry Placement), depending on route.
✔ Study in a supportive learning environment Lincoln combines scientific challenge with approachable teaching and academic support, helping you build confidence throughout your degree.
This course helps you develop advanced chemistry knowledge alongside the practical investigative skills used in forensic and analytical science.
You’ll begin by building a strong foundation in:
As the course progresses, you’ll explore how chemistry is applied within forensic contexts and scientific investigations.
You may study topics such as:
Throughout the course, you’ll develop practical experience in:
Master’s-level study gives you the opportunity to undertake substantial independent research and engage with more advanced scientific challenges. This helps prepare you for specialist careers, research-intensive roles, and postgraduate progression.
This module aims to provide a breadth core understanding of the main chemical principles behind the chemistry of elements, systems in equilibrium and chemical reactivity, with special emphasis in basic organic reactions.
Students will have the opportunity to learn basic concepts about elements and their main periodic properties and how some of these elements can be combined to produce molecules. Organic molecules will be used as an example to explain reactivity and how chemical structure can condition molecular properties. Energy transfers are also studied to understand the key role they play in chemical and physical transformations and how systems in equilibrium are affected by these.
This module aims to introduce core chemistry concepts with an emphasis on chemical change. Movement and interaction of molecules and chemical kinetics are key physical chemistry topics covered and applied to chemical reactions of both organic and inorganic substances. The use of empirical data to develop and support laws, theories and models will be covered and how chemical kinetics can be used to develop reaction mechanisms. An introduction to crystallography and absorption spectroscopy is covered.
This module is concerned with the skills required to protect, record, process and interpret a crime scene. Emphasis is placed on the role of crime scene investigation in the ‘forensic process’. The process of crime scene investigation is examined from scene preservation and recording (e.g. sketches and photography) to evidence recovery, packaging and documentation. The need for avoidance of contamination of the crime scene and for the subsequent continuity and integrity of the recovered evidence form an integral component of the module.
This module introduces students to professional practice in forensic science. This is put into the context of the legal system of England and Wales and the requirements and expectations of forensic science, those that work in the field and the expert witness. This module will explain the process of forensic practice within the laboratory, including areas such as chain of custody, contemporaneous note taking, standard operating procedures and quality control.
This module builds on the level 1 Crime Scene Investigation module and focuses on the detection, recovery, analysis and interpretation of a wide range of evidence found at a crime scene. In considering this variety of evidence, students will develop an understanding of what implications the recovery of one type of evidence will have on other evidence present on the exhibit or at the scene i.e. the need for a holistic approach to crime scene investigation. Students will explore a wide range of complex evidence types and the latest techniques used to examine them. As part of the module students will undertake the examination of a complex crime scene where they will be required to collect, analyse and interpret a range of evidence types.
This module builds upon foundational knowledge developed in Level 4 to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of chemical reactivity in molecular systems. Knowledge of physicochemical approaches to understanding and quantifying chemical change, via reaction kinetics, is advanced. It also offers insight into the fundamentals of transition metal complexes and their utility in homogeneous catalysis, and extends understanding of mechanism and reactivity of organic compounds.
This unit introduces students to the basic concepts of forensic archaeological science and will aim to address the underlying principles of forensic archaeological recovery of human remains in a variety of contexts, including criminal, war crimes and mass disaster cases. It will cover practical aspects such as the search and recovery of human remains and examine other related evidence types. Theoretical considerations will be given to the processes of human decomposition and aspects of forensic taphonomy will also be examined.
This module is designed to develop an understanding of the importance of marks and trace materials, such as hairs, fibres, glass, footwear and latent fingermarks, as evidence. This would include their detection, recovery, analysis and the interpretation of results gained in a forensic context. The issues of transfer and persistence of such materials is also highlighted, and the need to consider this throughout the above processes.
The option to study overseas is a valuable educational opportunity for our students. Provision of this option supports the educational aims of the Chemistry programmes and enhances the distinctiveness of its degrees at Lincoln. The experience is intended to:
- enable students to benefit from studying within a cross cultural environment;
- expose students to a wider academic and cultural experience;
- enhance their future employment opportunities;
- by increasing their cultural and professional mobility.
This module is optional for students within the School. Study Abroad is a module which enables students to spend a year studying abroad at one of the University’s approved partner institutions. Eligible students must have completed their third year of study to a satisfactory standard and successfully completed the application process for the year abroad.
During the time spent abroad, students will complete the professional development portfolio and will critically reflect upon their experience of living and studying in a different cultural environment and the skills acquired.
This module develops a systematic understanding of how molecular shape, symmetry and stereochemistry govern bonding, properties and reactivity across the chemical sub‑disciplines. Students apply group theory and MO concepts to interpret character tables, predict selection rules, and rationalise bonding in polyatomic and cluster species; and they evaluate statistical thermodynamics (distributions, partition functions, ensembles) and read potential‑energy surfaces to relate microscopic behaviour to bulk properties and spontaneity.
This module provides a context for the chemical, physiological and analytical content introduced at levels 4 and 5. It deciphers the complex and dynamic world context of drugs of abuse and intrinsic challenges faced by analytical chemists. It also covers the chemistry and legislation of controlled substances and chemical precursors as well as the different classes of drugs. The module also covers the ante- and post-mortem toxicology of drugs, relates concentration to physiological effect as well as considers appropriate samples and analytical strategies used in forensic toxicology.
This module aims to develop systematic personal and professional development of a student in a specialist area of chemistry to enhance employability. This is achieved through development and execution of a personal learning plan designed using a process of self-reflection around five development themes: personal development; professional skills development; technical skills development; research interests; career development.
This module provides students with the opportunity to apply chemical knowledge and laboratory skills to an extended practical research study. It also provides the opportunity to further develop professional skills, including the use of online literature/chemical data searching; ability to critically review relevant published literature & written/oral presentation of research activities.
This module provides students with opportunity to apply chemical knowledge & laboratory skills to an extended practical research study within a commercial context. Further develop professional skills incl. use of on-line literature/chemical data searching; ability to critically review relevant published literature & written/oral presentation of research activities
This inter-disciplinary module introduces the biology, physics, and chemistry behind some the most common and emerging sensors used in analytical science and their mode of action. The special challenges of bioanalytical methods provides a modern context for specific sensor development and case studies will be presented from forensic, pharmaceutical and healthcare contexts for development of sensors.
Students will acquire knowledge in the physics and chemistry of fire and explosions which is then used to understand and interpret fire and explosion scenes. Case studies, fieldwork and laboratory work will provide the contexts for the knowledge delivered in lectures and workshops. Laboratory skills will be further developed from modules covered earlier in the course and emphasis will be placed on students working on professionally focused group and individual problems. The professional and research literature will be a major information source that will inform module content and provide the context of the role of forensic scientists in fire and explosion investigation within the framework of the present legal system.
This module comprises two main components: The first will provide fundamental knowledge concerning strategies for Sampling, Data analysis, Reporting, Quality assurance and Quality control, Numerical and IT skills, and Safety in relation to analytical science. The second will provide the general introductory principles and a theoretical understanding of a range of instrumental analytical techniques and their applications. The module aims to provide the background knowledge needed for an understanding of the various principles discussed in greater detail in other modules
In this module students have the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the fate of toxins within the human body and the analysis of biological specimens that builds upon the knowledge gained from modules previously studied.
Laboratory work will be based upon case work and the development of new methods providing a realistic experience of the role of the forensic toxicologist in legal cases. Use of external practitioners, laboratory visits and specialist equipment aim to further add to this experience and strengthen the opportunity for employment in this highly competitive field.
Laboratory problems will be less directed and aim to further develop skills in teamwork and independent learning. Students are also expected to develop skills in interpretation of results and presentation in court, as expected for a professional forensic toxicologist within the present legal system. New method development will be backed up by consideration of research developments across all aspects of the field.
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
This module aims to provide a breadth core understanding of the main chemical principles behind the chemistry of elements, systems in equilibrium and chemical reactivity, with special emphasis in basic organic reactions.
Students will have the opportunity to learn basic concepts about elements and their main periodic properties and how some of these elements can be combined to produce molecules. Organic molecules will be used as an example to explain reactivity and how chemical structure can condition molecular properties. Energy transfers are also studied to understand the key role they play in chemical and physical transformations and how systems in equilibrium are affected by these.
This module aims to introduce core chemistry concepts with an emphasis on chemical change. Movement and interaction of molecules and chemical kinetics are key physical chemistry topics covered and applied to chemical reactions of both organic and inorganic substances. The use of empirical data to develop and support laws, theories and models will be covered and how chemical kinetics can be used to develop reaction mechanisms. An introduction to crystallography and absorption spectroscopy is covered.
This module is concerned with the skills required to protect, record, process and interpret a crime scene. Emphasis is placed on the role of crime scene investigation in the ‘forensic process’. The process of crime scene investigation is examined from scene preservation and recording (e.g. sketches and photography) to evidence recovery, packaging and documentation. The need for avoidance of contamination of the crime scene and for the subsequent continuity and integrity of the recovered evidence form an integral component of the module.
This module builds on the level 1 Crime Scene Investigation module and focuses on the detection, recovery, analysis and interpretation of a wide range of evidence found at a crime scene. In considering this variety of evidence, students will develop an understanding of what implications the recovery of one type of evidence will have on other evidence present on the exhibit or at the scene i.e. the need for a holistic approach to crime scene investigation. Students will explore a wide range of complex evidence types and the latest techniques used to examine them. As part of the module students will undertake the examination of a complex crime scene where they will be required to collect, analyse and interpret a range of evidence types.
This module builds upon foundational knowledge developed in Level 4 to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of chemical reactivity in molecular systems. Knowledge of physicochemical approaches to understanding and quantifying chemical change, via reaction kinetics, is advanced. It also offers insight into the fundamentals of transition metal complexes and their utility in homogeneous catalysis, and extends understanding of mechanism and reactivity of organic compounds.
The option to study overseas is a valuable educational opportunity for our students. Provision of this option supports the educational aims of the Chemistry programmes and enhances the distinctiveness of its degrees at Lincoln. The experience is intended to:
- enable students to benefit from studying within a cross cultural environment;
- expose students to a wider academic and cultural experience;
- enhance their future employment opportunities;
- by increasing their cultural and professional mobility.
This module is optional for students within the School. Study Abroad is a module which enables students to spend a year studying abroad at one of the University’s approved partner institutions. Eligible students must have completed their third year of study to a satisfactory standard and successfully completed the application process for the year abroad.
During the time spent abroad, students will complete the professional development portfolio and will critically reflect upon their experience of living and studying in a different cultural environment and the skills acquired.
This module develops a systematic understanding of how molecular shape, symmetry and stereochemistry govern bonding, properties and reactivity across the chemical sub‑disciplines. Students apply group theory and MO concepts to interpret character tables, predict selection rules, and rationalise bonding in polyatomic and cluster species; and they evaluate statistical thermodynamics (distributions, partition functions, ensembles) and read potential‑energy surfaces to relate microscopic behaviour to bulk properties and spontaneity.
This module provides a context for the chemical, physiological and analytical content introduced at levels 4 and 5. It deciphers the complex and dynamic world context of drugs of abuse and intrinsic challenges faced by analytical chemists. It also covers the chemistry and legislation of controlled substances and chemical precursors as well as the different classes of drugs. The module also covers the ante- and post-mortem toxicology of drugs, relates concentration to physiological effect as well as considers appropriate samples and analytical strategies used in forensic toxicology.
This module aims to develop systematic personal and professional development of a student in a specialist area of chemistry to enhance employability. This is achieved through development and execution of a personal learning plan designed using a process of self-reflection around five development themes: personal development; professional skills development; technical skills development; research interests; career development.
This module provides students with the opportunity to apply chemical knowledge and laboratory skills to an extended practical research study. It also provides the opportunity to further develop professional skills, including the use of online literature/chemical data searching; ability to critically review relevant published literature & written/oral presentation of research activities.
This module provides students with opportunity to apply chemical knowledge & laboratory skills to an extended practical research study within a commercial context. Further develop professional skills incl. use of on-line literature/chemical data searching; ability to critically review relevant published literature & written/oral presentation of research activities
This inter-disciplinary module introduces the biology, physics, and chemistry behind some the most common and emerging sensors used in analytical science and their mode of action. The special challenges of bioanalytical methods provides a modern context for specific sensor development and case studies will be presented from forensic, pharmaceutical and healthcare contexts for development of sensors.
Students will acquire knowledge in the physics and chemistry of fire and explosions which is then used to understand and interpret fire and explosion scenes. Case studies, fieldwork and laboratory work will provide the contexts for the knowledge delivered in lectures and workshops. Laboratory skills will be further developed from modules covered earlier in the course and emphasis will be placed on students working on professionally focused group and individual problems. The professional and research literature will be a major information source that will inform module content and provide the context of the role of forensic scientists in fire and explosion investigation within the framework of the present legal system.
This module comprises two main components: The first will provide fundamental knowledge concerning strategies for Sampling, Data analysis, Reporting, Quality assurance and Quality control, Numerical and IT skills, and Safety in relation to analytical science. The second will provide the general introductory principles and a theoretical understanding of a range of instrumental analytical techniques and their applications. The module aims to provide the background knowledge needed for an understanding of the various principles discussed in greater detail in other modules
In this module students have the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the fate of toxins within the human body and the analysis of biological specimens that builds upon the knowledge gained from modules previously studied.
Laboratory work will be based upon case work and the development of new methods providing a realistic experience of the role of the forensic toxicologist in legal cases. Use of external practitioners, laboratory visits and specialist equipment aim to further add to this experience and strengthen the opportunity for employment in this highly competitive field.
Laboratory problems will be less directed and aim to further develop skills in teamwork and independent learning. Students are also expected to develop skills in interpretation of results and presentation in court, as expected for a professional forensic toxicologist within the present legal system. New method development will be backed up by consideration of research developments across all aspects of the field.
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
Studying forensic chemistry can feel both exciting and challenging, especially because it combines advanced science with practical investigation and analytical work. Lincoln’s support is designed to help you build confidence throughout your degree.
Support may include:
You’ll be encouraged to develop independence gradually, moving from supported foundational learning to advanced laboratory investigation and independent research.
The advanced analytical and research skills developed on the MChem are relevant to forensic providers, toxicology and bioanalytical laboratories, pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, analytical quality science, regulation, technical consultancy, and postgraduate research.
What can you do with an MChem Forensic Chemistry degree?
Forensic chemistry graduates can pursue careers across scientific, forensic, analytical, and investigative sectors.
Potential career areas include:
The integrated master’s structure can also support progression into:
Why employers value forensic chemistry graduates
You graduate with a combination of technical scientific expertise and transferable professional skills, including:
For MChem graduates, this can also include evidence of advanced project work, greater research independence, and stronger professional readiness for specialist scientific careers.
Many students are attracted to forensic chemistry because it combines scientific study with practical investigation. Importantly, the degree also keeps career options broad. Graduates are not limited to crime scene or police-related careers. The chemistry, analytical, and research skills developed on the course are relevant across pharmaceuticals, environmental science, manufacturing, healthcare, and research.
If it wasn’t for the University of Lincoln, I would not be working for one of the best global pharmaceutical companies in the world.
Shantae Kaur Rayat
CMC Regulatory Affairs Associate at AstraZeneca
This course could be a strong fit if you:
You do not need to have your career fully planned before applying. Forensic chemistry develops broad scientific and analytical skills that can lead to many different pathways.
What matters most is curiosity, attention to detail, and an interest in understanding how chemistry can be used to solve complex problems and support real-world investigation.
112 to 120 UCAS Tariff points.
This must be achieved from a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, to include 40 points from Chemistry. For example:
A Level: BBC to BBB to include a Grade B in Chemistry
BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM
Forensic and Criminal Investigation accepted.
Applied Science accepted depending on modules. Please include units on application.
T Level in Science: Merit Overall (Health or Health Science not accepted)
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 112 to 120 UCAS points to be achieved from 45 Level 3 credits, including 40 points from 15 credits in Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall to include a Higher Level in Chemistry.
GCSE's: Minimum of three at grade 4 or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may be considered.
The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
We may also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.
Non UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.
For applicants who do not meet our standard entry requirements, our Science Foundation Year can provide an alternative route of entry onto our full degree programmes:
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/course/sfysfyub/lifesciences/
If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk
112 to 120 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, to include 40 points from Chemistry.
If you are eligible for a contextual offer, a one grade or 8 UCAS Tariff point reduction to the standard entry requirements will be applied. Subject specific requirements will still be required as part of the standard entry criteria.
A Level: BBB to include a Grade B in Chemistry
BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science accepted depending on modules: DDM
(Please include units on application)
We will accept a Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National (equivalent to 1 A Level) in Medical Science or Applied Science to meet the subject specific requirement: Merit
T Level: Not currently accepted.
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 120 UCAS points to be achieved from 45 Level 3 credits, including 40 points from 15 credits in Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall to include a Higher Level in Chemistry.
GCSEs: Minimum of three at grade 4 or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may be considered.
The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
We may also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.
Non UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.
For applicants who do not meet our standard entry requirements, our Science Foundation Year can provide an alternative route of entry onto our full degree programmes:
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/course/sfysfyub/lifesciences/
If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk
University Study is a major investment, so it’s important to understand the costs and support available. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found below. Eligible students may be able to access scholarships and bursaries to help with study costs.
University Study is a major investment, so it’s important to understand the costs and support available. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found below. Eligible students may be able to access scholarships and bursaries to help with study costs.
The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to visit us in person. We offer a range of opportunities across the year to help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.
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We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.
We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.
/prod01/university-of-lincoln-cdn-pxl/media/responsive2017/images/openday/DSC04469.jpg)