BSc (Hons) Forensic Science

Level One

• Introductory Chemistry
• Quantitative Methods in Science
• Crime Scene Investigation
• Introductory Biology

Level Two

• Analytical Techniques
• Anatomy, Physiology and Post-mortem Processes
• Drugs of Abuse
• Advanced Crime Scene Investigation & Analysis
• Forensic Molecular Biology

Level Three

• Forensic Anthropology
• Applied Forensic Analysis
• Forensic Toxicology
• Fire & Explosion Investigation
• Independent Study
• Forensic Entomology

Teaching methods include conventional lectures, which cover the core subject material, practical classes and field visits, which cover the technical and vocational skills of forensic science. These are supported by tutorials and seminars. Students are required to attend all tutorials, seminars and practicals.

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.

The course does not include a formally assessed placement year. However students are encouraged to gain as much work-place experience as possible either during vacations or in an optional year out. The University may be able to assist with finding suitable placements.

The Department is located in a £5.5 million Science Centre at Brayford Pool, Lincoln. These state-of-the-art laboratories are equipped with some of the latest analytical and specialist forensic facilities, together with dedicated research laboratories. There is also a fully equipped “scene-of-crime house” which is used for crime scene management exercises.

Click here for more information about the department and its facilities

The course has full accreditation from the Forensic Science Society and students are eligible for membership of the Society.

The course is Recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Consequently, if a chemistry-based final year research project is undertaken, students are eligible for Associate Membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry on graduation. The Department has been awarded Skillsmark recognition status and is a recognised provider of education and training for the justice sector.

The university has a very close working relationship with the Scientific Support Section of Lincolnshire Police, giving students unique access to case studies provided by the Scenes of Crime Officers, the Fingerprint Bureau and the Photography Unit. Extensive links are maintained with private sector forensic consultants and government laboratories

280 UCAS points overall, with A2 preferably in Chemistry or Biology. Although Maths and Physics are also acceptable. The points exclude Key Skills.

The University is a member of the Authorised Validating Agency for Science Access Courses in the region. Completion of a valid Access Course will guarantee a place on the Forensic Science course. Special consideration will be given to mature students who do not have standard entry qualifications and who will be interviewed.

If you have an interest in experimental science, and have the curiosity to acquire scientific knowledge and wish to apply it to the investigation and analysis of evidence, then this course is for you.

You will develop general scientific and laboratory skills, and skills in the analysis and interpretation of data. Specifically, a wide range of skills which will enable you to take on the full spectrum of roles fulfilled by a forensic scientist including DNA profiling, illegal substance analysis, identification of human remains and the use of IT and databases in the detection, monitoring and prevention of crime.

Most units on the course are assessed using a mixture of examinations and course work. Coursework forms a very significant proportion of the total assessment and includes practical reports, project work, oral presentations and written submissions. Examinations are used on a range of units at all three levels of the course.

You will develop general scientific and laboratory skills, and skills in the analysis and interpretation of data. Specifically, a wide range of skills which will enable you to take on the full spectrum of roles fulfilled by a forensic scientist including DNA profiling, illegal substance analysis, identification of human remains and the use of IT and databases in the detection, monitoring and prevention of crime.

We look for an appropriate background in science subjects together with evidence of motivation and flexibility.

For further information and funding your studey please see our Fees & Funding pages.

Fees and Funding