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- Forensic Science with Criminology BSc (Hons)
Course options
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Qualification
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
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Location
Main Site
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Study mode
Full time
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Start date
01-SEP-25
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Duration
3 Years
Course summary
This course covers topics such as the causes of criminal behaviour and whether criminals are born or made, as well as the legal aspects of forensic science.
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, 100% of students agreed that staff are good at explaining things and 92% of students stated they are satisfied with the course overall.
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.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE FOCUS: Your studies will be underpinned by a strong focus on the criminal justice system and the legal aspects of forensic science. You’ll explore issues such as expert testimony and evidence, miscarriages of justice, the court process and the roles of the judge, jury and witnesses.
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 also features a blood pattern analysis room.
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.
EXPERT TEACHING: You'll be taught by active researchers who have many years of commercial forensic experience. Guest speakers, such as criminal justice professionals, judges and lawyers, will also share their remarkable experiences with you.
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: First year modules will introduce you to key scientific skills as well as the principles of law, criminology and criminal justice. A range of modules at stages years two and three include trace evidence, miscarriages of justice or serious and organised crime, with options to explore wildlife crime, toxicology or victimology among others. For your final-year research project, you will have the chance to focus on a specialist theme of your choice. You'll have the opportunity to apply for a year-long placement to help develop the skills employers look for.
HOW YOU'RE ASSESSED: You’ll be assessed through a range of mediums, including formal witness statements and expert testimony, as well as essays, laboratory reports, case studies, portfolios, and presentations.
YOUR CAREER: Our course gives you a solid foundation for success in a challenging and pioneering profession - you could follow in the footsteps of our many successful graduates and work within the criminal justice system, the police force, the prison service or forensic services. You could also pursue careers in broader areas such as insurance companies, law firms, pharmaceutical companies or private laboratories. The course equips you with the skills needed to take your studies to a higher level too as you could go on to study for an MSc, MPhil or PhD.
STUDY OPTIONS: This course is available with a Foundation Year option. This course is available with an Industrial Placement Year.
Application deadline
29 January
Tuition fees
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£ 14,900per year
Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.
Entry requirements
Choose a qualification
QUALIFICATION TYPE
A level :
At least a grade C in either Biology, Human Biology or Chemistry (or equivalent qualification).
VIEW MOREUniversity information

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University League Table
95th
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Campus address
University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, Derby, DE22 1GB, England
Subject rankings
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Subject ranking
69th out of 101 3
12th out of 36 1
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Entry standards
/ Max 206123 60%47th
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Graduate prospects
/ Max 10053.0 53%78th
5 -
Student satisfaction
/ Max 43.06 76%37th
28 -
Entry standards
/ Max 206135 66%14th
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Graduate prospects
/ Max 10070.0 70%11th
5 -
Student satisfaction
/ Max 42.95 74%29th
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