Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

University of Derby

Separate the facts from the fiction on this dynamic course. You’ll cover forensic practices such as crime scene investigation, fingerprint analysis and human tissue analysis.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE:

RANKINGS: Our Forensic Science subject area is ranked 3rd in the UK for careers after 15 months of graduating and 4th in the UK for student satisfaction with Teaching (The Guardian University Guide 2022). In the National Student Survey 2021, 96% of students agreed that staff are good at explaining things and 91% of students are satisfied with the teaching on the course.

ACCREDITATION: Study on a course fully accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Science, reflecting its link to industry standards, student-centred approach, excellent facilities and focus on employability upon graduation.

FACILITIES: You'll have access to our specialist Crime Scene House with seven domestic and commercial crime scenes, we also have cars for mock crime scenes, and crown courts for presenting evidence. Our Crime Scene House was designed to such a precise specification that it is regularly used by external clients such as the emergency services for their own staff training.

SCIENTIFIC EXPERIENCE: Hone your scientific skills in our forensic science laboratories. These include an osteology lab for skeletal study, a wet forensic lab, dark room for specialised light searching and photography, an entomology lab for insect investigation, and forensic imaging facilities.

EXCELLENT TEACHING: You’ll be taught by active researchers conducting important studies into fields such as entomology, forensic photography, anthropology, taphonomy, drug analysis, fingerprint detection and enhancement techniques, blood pattern analysis and fire investigations.

TAILORED TO YOU: There are plenty of opportunities to tailor your studies to match your personal interests and career aspirations through our wide selection of optional modules.

WHAT YOU'LL COVER: You'll cover blood pattern analysis, firearms and fire investigation, and consider how entomology and tissue decay can help forensic scientists. Road traffic accidents, drug and computer crime, arson, assaults and break-ins are all mock crime scenes that you'll investigate to help you prepare for the diverse scenarios you are likely to encounter throughout your career.

HOW YOU'RE ASSESSED: You’ll be assessed through a range of mediums, including formal witness statements and expert testimony, as well as case studies, essays, laboratory reports, portfolios, examinations and presentations.

YOUR CAREER: Our graduates have gone on to secure roles in areas such as crime scene investigation (CSI), research, forensic intelligence analysis, and toxicology. The degree also provides a firm foundation for postgraduate level learning. Because it is an applied science course, it equips you to progress to qualifications in medicine and can pave the way to MSc, MPhil or PhD study.

STUDY OPTIONS: This course is also available with a Foundation Year option.- This course is available with an Industrial Placement Year.