Forensic Science

Learn how to use science to help solve crimes on this Forensic Science degree.

• Understand the science behind crime scene investigations.

• Learn to gather, analyse and interpret evidence, and how to present it to court.

• See forensic science in action with visits to crime scene investigation units and police stations.

Have you ever wondered what goes on when a crime scene is investigated? Or what happens to the evidence that’s collected? If you’re curious about real-life CSI then this Forensic Science course will answer all your questions, and more.

You’ll learn all the skills you need to become a crime scene investigator, including observing a crime scene and gathering evidence, analysing and interpreting what you find, and presenting your discoveries to the criminal justice system.

You’ll also gain a solid understanding of the criminal justice system, and explore the causes and motivations behind the crimes you’ll be investigating.

Year one
In your first year, you’ll study the science behind forensics. You’ll develop your experimental skills and gain an understanding of the fundamentals of chemical and biosciences. You’ll also look at areas of crime and disorder which occur in everyday life.

Year two
In your second year, you’ll find out more about the workings of the British criminal justice system. You’ll also discover the different techniques used to analyse crime scene evidence, including bodily fluids, fingerprints and hair.

You’ll learn about research methods and take part in small-scale research tasks to help prepare you for your independent research project in your final year.

You’ll have the opportunity to go on placements to further enhance your understanding and practice of forensic science.

Year three
In your final year, you’ll conduct your independent research project, undertake further studies in advanced analytical techniques, and demonstrate your understanding of forensic science in a practical-based module.

You’ll also explore subjects such as punishment and the penal system in global context, cyber security, and terrorism.

You’ll be assessed using a combination of report writing, laboratory reports, presentations, group work, in-class tests and dissertations.