Forensic Science

Explore how to collect, analyse and interpret chemical and biological evidence from crime scenes and how to present your findings in court.

From day one you will be learning all about forensic science in facilities including a SuperLab and authentic crime scene rooms. You’ll discover how to collect, analyse, and interpret chemical and biological evidence from crime scenes, and present your findings in our on-site courtroom.

You’ll be taught by subject experts, hear from a fantastic range of guest speakers, and join field trips including visiting the mortuary at ARU’s School of Medicine.

We also run live brief assessments, which are designed and developed with local police forces and forensic science organisations, giving you invaluable exposure to ‘real world’ problem-solving.

Why ARU?

• Study on a course that’s accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

• Benefit from our staff’s expertise in analytical chemistry, forensic anthropology, toxicology, forensic genetics and crime scene examination

• Bring the world of work to life through Live Briefs; take on real-world challenges and present modern solutions that directly impact and benefit prospective employers

• Get hands-on in our crime scene rooms, 200-seater SuperLab, and mock court room

• Prepare for work in law enforcement, forensic science, and elsewhere in the scientific sector

Course Modules

Year 1

• United Kingdom Legal Systems and Law for Forensic Scientists (15 credits)

• Applied Science for Forensic Investigators (30 credits)

• Introduction to Forensic Photography and Methodologies (30 credits)

• Personal and Professional Development - Level 4

• Physical and Quantitative Chemistry for Analytical Scientists (15 credits)

• Biological and Trace Evidence Analysis (30 credits)

• Group Tutorial

• Into ARU

Year 2

• Introduction to Forensic Genetics (15 credits)

• Forensic Scene Examination (15 credits)

• Forensic Spectroscopy Techniques (15 credits)

• Forensic Analytical Chemistry (30 credits)

• Professional and Personal Development - Level 5

• Forensic Biology (15 credits)

• Project Preparation (15 credits)

• Group Tutorial

• Ruskin Module (15 credits)

Year 3

• Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons (15 credits)

• Forensic Pathology (15 credits)

• Undergraduate Major Project (30 credits)

• Advanced Forensic Methodologies (30 credits)

• Group Tutorial

• Advanced Forensic Genetics (15 credits) *

• Forensic Anthropology (15 credits) *

*optional

Throughout the course, we’ll use a range of assessment methods to measure your progress. This course has a hands-on approach, so a lot of your assessment will be through practical work. You’ll also do exams, essays, portfolios, role plays and presentations.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences