Forensic and Analytical Science BSc(Hons)

About the course

Fascinated by the forensic techniques you see in films and on TV? Or perhaps you’re eager to learn more about the scientific principles behind them?

From fingerprint development (chemical and physical) to spot tests for blood stains, refractive index, chromatography, spectroscopy and x-ray fluorescence, you’ll explore a host of methods used within forensic science labs.

Why study Forensic and Analytical Science BSc(Hons)

You’ll study from purpose-built, on-campus forensic science labs and specially made crime scene facilities, with the course covering a host of modules. Practical work on this course is supported by lectures on forensic awareness and will explore how forensic scientists interact with the police force and other bodies.

Modules are varied; in the first year alone, the curriculum includes Analytical Science 1 and Important Forensic Concepts.

These are supported by core chemistry modules:

• Organic Chemistry 1
• Physical Chemistry 1
• Inorganic Chemistry 1

Accredited by Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, this course can be taken over three years or four; choose a four-year degree course and you can gain real-world experience on a rewarding placement in a relevant industry setting within forensic and analytical science.

During this course, which will help you hone a wide range of sought-after, practical skills, you be supported by academics and experienced practitioners in forensic science and analytical science.

Get to grips with a variety of topics – in lectures, via problem-based tutorials, lab classes and in our crime-scene facilities. Mock criminal court hearings and organised outdoor crime scenes will also help extend your understanding of the subject. Career prospects for graduates cover a broad range of fields, too, from scene of crime officers (SOCO), forensic toxicologists and bloodstain pattern analysts to working in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, hospital or analytical service laboratories and beyond.

Entry requirements

If you do not have the appropriate qualifications for direct entry to this degree you may be able to apply to our Science Extended Degree (BCF0).

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum for IELTS is 6.0 overall with no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page.

Other suitable experience or qualifications will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

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