Postgraduate Uncovered
7 Mar 2026, 11:00
Lincoln
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, fire debris analysis and forensic toxicology, so students can develop an in-depth understanding of forensic chemistry and fundamental science.
For an MChem student, the study experience is extended through a full-year placement 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. 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.
The first year of this course aims to provide students with a foundation in chemistry, including laboratory work, mathematics and statistics, as well as the principles of forensic science and crime scene investigation. In year two, students have the opportunity to explore more advanced aspects of forensic chemistry and are introduced to key areas of advanced crime scene methods and trace evidence. In year three, students may choose from modules of personal interest, including fire and explosion investigation, nuclear forensics and bioterrorism and drugs of abuse. In the MChem fourth year, students complete a full-year placement 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. For the most up to date module information, please visit the course page for this programme on our website. Some programmes provide you with the opportunity to focus your study in a particular area through optional modules. Timetabling arrangements may limit the availability of some optional modules to some students. As the options often reflect staff research interests, they may alter over time due to staff availability.
The way students will be assessed on this course will vary for each module. It could include coursework, such as a dissertation or essay, written and practical exams, portfolio development, group work or presentations to name some examples. Throughout this degree, students may receive tuition from professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, researchers, practitioners, visiting experts or technicians, and they may be supported in their learning by other students.
The following entry points are available for this course:
Discover what it's like to study Forensic Chemistry at University of Lincoln: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
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.
At Lincoln, we recognise that not everybody has had the same advice and support to help them get to higher education. Contextual offers are one of the ways we remove the barriers to higher education, ensuring fair access for all students regardless of background and personal experiences. If eligible, your offer may be lower depending on the course you applied for, your qualifications and your circumstances. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit our Offer Guide Pages.
This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.
See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.
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The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|
| EU | £18300 | Year 1 |
| England | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9535 | Year 1 |
| International | £18300 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
For each course students may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required, depending on their subject area. Some courses provide opportunities for students to undertake field work or field trips. Where these are compulsory, the cost for the travel, accommodation and meals may be covered by the University and so is included in the fee. Where these are optional students will normally (unless stated otherwise) be required to pay their own transportation, accommodation and meal costs.
Some courses offer the opportunity to take part in placements. When students are on an optional placement in the UK or overseas or studying abroad, they will be required to cover their own transport and accommodation and meals costs. Placements can range from a few weeks to a full year if students choose to undertake an optional sandwich year in industry. Students are encouraged to obtain placements in industry independently. Tutors may provide support and advice to students who require it during this process.
With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that students are required to read. However, students may prefer to purchase some of these for themselves and will therefore be responsible for this cost.
Brayford Pool
Lincoln
LN6 7TS
Email:enquiries@lincoln.ac.uk
Phone:01522 886644