Forensic Sciences

Go beyond the police tape with this fascinating and highly practical Forensic Sciences degree. Learn the techniques that underpin the recognition, identification, recovery, analysis and evaluation of information which can be used as evidence in court.

Are you naturally inquisitive with a passion for chemistry and biology? Do you like to solve problems for fun? Put these traits to work on this Forensic Sciences degree that equips you with the valuable skills you need to help support the legal process.

It's a hands-on degree, where you'll analyse crime scenes in our purpose-built facilities, and learn forensic analysis techniques in our state-of-the-art laboratories. You'll go on fact-finding field trips to places like the mortuary, and observe bomb disposal experts at work.

Work placement options

There are work placement opportunities, plus you’ll be taught by academics who’ve come directly from industry and forensic researchers at the cutting edge of their field. Along the way you’ll hear lectures from organisations including Scottish Police Authority, the Army Bomb Squad, an international Disaster Victim Identification expert, a global expert in scene examination training, and former students in working in this field.

You'll learn about the forensic responses to some of the biggest disaster events in recent history, and the correct methods for identifying human remains.

A hands-on and practical degree

This vocational course consists of three main study areas: forensic science, chemistry and biology. It also includes psychology and law, designed to help prepare you for a variety of workplace situations. You'll cover topics such as:

• Crime scene investigation.

• Body fluid analysis.

• DNA profiling.

• Fingerprinting.

• Substances of abuse and toxicology.

Abertay's Forensic Sciences degree is professionally accredited and commended by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSoFS), which means you're eligible to apply for associate membership on graduation.

This degree is ranked top in the UK for teaching, academic support and resources (NSS 2023).

https://www.abertay.ac.uk/course-search/undergraduate/forensic-sciences/#modules

We offer a broad range of learning environments, including traditional lecture and tutorial format, student-led learning, interactive class sessions, practical and a substantial element of laboratory work. We encourage independent study, meaning that you take responsibility for your own learning. Your study is assessed with a variety of methods enabling you to demonstrate progress in different ways. Coursework typically includes laboratory reports, essays and oral presentations. Formal exams typically include questions that require either short answers or essays coupled with problem-solving of forensic-related challenges. In your final dissertation you are individually supported by an experienced research active member of staff. Lab reports, essays, oral presentations and exams. Year 1 is approximately 50% exam and 50% coursework. Year 4 is approximately 100% exam in some instances - not including final year project, which is coursework based.