Forensic Science (with Foundation Year)

Ready to take a deep dive into the scientific principles that underpin forensic investigations? Our programme equips you to examine crime scenes, analyse evidence and present results in court as an expert witness. From sharp force trauma to spectra, bones to bugs, get ready to develop your practical skills for an exciting scientific career.

You will:

• Get hands-on practical experience to ensure you develop the skills needed in the industry, using our state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, crime scene house and decomposition research facility.

• Choose from three distinct areas of specialisation in forensic chemistry, forensic biology or postmortem investigation with comprehensive facilities and equipment dedicated to each field.

• Have the chance to study bilingually as we embed Welsh language skills across the program, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

• Benefit from our excellent connections with local and international organisations, including specialist laboratories, local police forces and experts in areas such as drone technology and disaster victim identification.

• Receive teaching and support from a team of highly qualified staff with a range of expertise and interests.

• Have the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities to enhance your main study programme such as guest lectures, short courses, local excursions, and residential trips.

• Build academic confidence with our Foundation Year for those returning to study or wanting more time and support to develop their scientific knowledge.

Course Modules

The Foundation Year is an integrated year where you will study core modules with a broad range of students from across the Faculty of Social and Life Sciences, giving you access to different perspectives and networking opportunities.

The modules will equip you with key skills needed for Higher Education and beyond. They will give you the chance to explore your subject area and available careers, allowing you to adapt your reading and assessments to be relevant to your degree pathway.

Alongside teaching from the broader faculty staff, you will be able to meet with staff and other students from your main degree pathway and get involved with events and opportunities that they are running.

• Study Skills for Success (Core)

• Resilience in Higher Education and Beyond (Core)

• A Day in the Life (Core)

• Life and Work in the Welsh Context (Core)

• Maths and Experimental Design (Core)

• Welsh for First Time Learners (Optional)

• Numeracy (option)

• Professional Communication in the Workplace (Optional)

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 4)

Your second year introduces you to the fundamental principles of forensic science, including crime scene investigation, laboratory techniques, and legal procedures. You will develop essential scientific and analytical skills, learning how to handle forensic evidence, interpret chemical and biological data, and apply statistical methods. This year lays the foundation for advanced forensic techniques in later years.

MODULES

• Essential Laboratory Skills

• Cell Biology, Biochemistry & Genetics

• Introduction to Chemistry

• Maths & Statistics for Science

• Crime Scene Investigation

• Criminal Justice

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 5)

In your third year, you will deepen your forensic knowledge, focusing on advanced laboratory techniques, forensic ecology, and the management of forensic evidence. You will develop critical analytical skills, learning how to evaluate and interpret forensic data accurately.

MODULES

• Forensic Evidence & Quality Management

• Forensic Ecology

• Anatomy & Pathology

• Analytical Methods in Applied Science

• ​Research Methods

• Taphonomy

YEAR 4 (LEVEL 6)

Your final year focuses on advanced forensic techniques, professional practice, and real-world case studies. You will develop expert witness skills, learning how to present forensic evidence in a courtroom setting. A major research project will allow you to explore a forensic topic of your choice.

MODULES

• Research Project

• Drugs & Toxicology

• Case Studies in Forensic Science

• Forensic Archaeology

• Professional Practice & the Expert Witness

You will learn through a combination of lectures, practical lab sessions, workshops, and interactive seminars, ensuring you develop both theoretical knowledge and hands-on forensic skills. Teaching is delivered through:

• Lectures: Covering core forensic science principles, case studies, and legal frameworks.

• Laboratory Sessions: Hands-on experience in crime scene investigation, forensic analysis, and evidence processing.

• Workshops & Seminars: Interactive discussions on forensic casework, ethical considerations, and real-world applications.

• Fieldwork: Simulated crime scene investigations and forensic recovery exercises in controlled environments.

• Independent Study: Self-directed learning supported by digital resources, research tasks, and guided reading materials.

A typical week includes around 12-16 hours of scheduled teaching (lectures, labs, and workshops), with additional independent study and assessments.

How you’ll be assessed

Assessment is designed to mirror real-world forensic practice, ensuring you develop skills in scientific analysis, evidence handling, and legal reporting. Assessments include:

• Practical Lab Work: Demonstrating forensic techniques in controlled environments.

• Crime Scene Reports: Documenting and analysing evidence from simulated crime scenes.

• Essays & Written Assignments: Researching forensic topics and case studies.

• Exams & In-Class Tests: Assessing your understanding of forensic science principles and applications.

• Research Project & Dissertation: Conducting an independent forensic investigation.

• Expert Witness Testimony: Presenting forensic evidence in a mock courtroom setting.

• Podcasts & Presentations: Communicating forensic findings through multimedia formats.

Assessments are designed to be varied and engaging, ensuring you develop scientific, analytical, and professional communication skills relevant to forensic careers.

Teaching and Learning

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments.

Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.