Forensic Biology with Integrated Master's

Our Integrated Master's in Forensic Biology develops advanced technical expertise, research experience, and the professional skills that will set you apart in a competitive field. You’ll master forensic investigation, DNA analysis, and biological evidence interpretation. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories and immersive indoor and outdoor crime scene simulations, preparing you to excel across forensic, biological, and analytical science sectors. Accreditation will be sought from the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences and the Royal Society of Biology.

Why choose this course?

• Top 3 in the UK for Forensic Science (Guardian University Guide, 2026)

• Top 5 in England for Biology (NSS 2025, broad-based universities)*

• Apply your learning through a year-long forensic biology research project

• Develop advanced analytical, data handling, and problem solving skills used in forensic investigations

• Certified expert-witness training as part of your degree

Our Integrated Forensic Biology programme combines concepts and techniques from both fields to give you broad, advanced and applied expertise.In your first two years, you’ll build core knowledge in forensic identification, investigation and analysis, forensic biology, anatomy, physiology, and genetics, reinforced through regular practical sessions. This foundation is strengthened with learning in forensic chemistry, toxicology, analytical science, anthropology, taphonomy, and crime scene investigation.

Forensic biology skills and key graduate attributes are embedded throughout the programme, developed through problem-based and team-based learning, extensive practical work, and progression through full forensic investigations where you’ll produce professional reports and defend them in a courtroom setting. You’ll build strong research skills through a major independent project in year three and an extended project in your final year, with opportunities for work or study placements. You can also boost your employability with additional certifications in expert-witness testimony and bioscience laboratory skills.

In the later stages of your degree, you will refine your development as a well-rounded forensic biologist, building advanced skills in collecting and interpreting data, problem-solving, professional reports and mock court exercises. Your development as an independent researcher is a central theme throughout the degree with an independent research project in year three and four.

About Keele

Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.

We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.

Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre.

Course Modules

For a list of indicative modules please visit the course page on the Keele University website.