Course overview

Forensic science is the application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. Recent advances in forensic science, most famously in DNA analysis, have combined to greatly increase the investigating powers of practising forensic scientists, making this a field of increasing importance and relevance.

The main aims of this degree are to:

• give you a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic science
• enable you to carry out investigations and research, and to assess the reliability of your results.

Throughout your three years of study, the focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to operate as a forensic scientist. You will have the opportunity to hone these skills in our 'crime scene' under the guidance of teaching staff who are, in many cases, professional forensic practitioners. A range of module options, including Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and Advanced Fire and Explosive Investigation, will allow you to develop specialisms within the field.

When you graduate you will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of UK legal systems, the role of the forensic scientist within those systems and the special duties and responsibilities of an expert witness;
• demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the main theoretical and practical skills of a forensic scientist
• estimate, using appropriate objective-, statistical-, and/or experiential-based tests, the value of your observations and conclusions as evidence in a court of law;
• apply this understanding to the design and operation of appropriate analyses and interpret results within a forensic science context;
• undertake creative, rigorous and relevant research using appropriate methodologies;
• present reports in oral, written and other appropriate formats.

This academically challenging course delves into some important and fascinating areas of science. The real focus of this course though, is on providing you with the practical skills used by professionals within the field - which should make your abilities very attractive to a range of potential employers.

This course is accredited by The Forensic Science Society.

Additional course information

Upon completion of this course you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• subject knowledge
• major aspects of terminology
• major types of forensic science evidence
• the principle techniques of forensic investigation and their application to different evidence types.

Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, essays, work portfolios, presentations, poster presentations, role play and evaluation of work from practical classes.

Facilities

State-of-the-art equipment (including Raman microscopes, scanning electron microscope, isotope ratio mass spectrometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer, and various gas chromatography and liquid gas chromatography instruments) contained within newly refurbished laboratories.

Study abroad options

Available in the second year providing student meets University requirements.

Links with industry and professional recognition

Following a certain pathway within the forensic science degree will also entitle the participant, upon successful completion of the BSc (Hons) degree, to use the post-nominal AMRSC (Associate member of the Royal Society of Chemistry).

Work placements

Students are encouraged to find work placement with local law enforcement organisations during the summer break, but the University does not organise any work placements as part of the course.

Associated careers

This course, whilst aimed at preparing you for a career in the forensic science industry, will also provide you with the ability and skills to undertake other careers which could include teaching, insurance industry and the legal profession.

UCAS Tariff points:	280 - 280
Additional Requirements:	Required subject(s): GCE A-level Grade C Biology OR Chemistry GCSE(s) Required: 3 GCSEs at grade C including English and Maths

Entry requirements listed are for September 2013 entry. Entry requirements for other intakes may differ.

For students who do not meet the standard entry tariff but have at least 40 UCAS points, a 4 year (full-time) or 8 year (part-time) option is available.

Please note AS levels are acceptable only when combined with other qualifications.

Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.

We welcome applications from International and EU students. Please select one of the links below for English language and country-specific entry requirement information.

• International students
• EU students
• English language requirements