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Forensic Science BSc (Hons) Modules

First year 

  • Forensic, Professional and Quantitative Skills – introduces and develops the necessary crime scene processing, photography, imaging, quantitative and professional science skills required by students to successfully complete their forensic science degree.
  • Foundations of Biology for Forensic Science – introduces the fundamentals of biology and molecular biology and is designed to provide a thorough introduction and foundation to all aspects of forensic biology.
  • Essentials of Forensic Investigations - provides an overview of the breadth and scope of forensic science. It outlines the different branches of forensic analysis and puts them in the context of crime scenes and evidence collection. This module also considers the ever-growing discipline of digital forensics.
  • Foundations of Chemistry for Forensic Science –introduces the fundamentals of chemistry and the core aspects of theoretical and practical forensic chemistry. As with the Foundations of Biology for Forensic Science module, it serves as an excellent foundation to the more in-depth modules in years two and three.

 

Second year 

  • Analytical Forensic Chemistry – covers the instrumental techniques used in forensic analytical chemistry and their applications. This module includes organic and inorganic analysis.
  • Issues in Criminal Justice – provides a basic introduction to English criminal law, courts, evidence and procedure. The judicial system defines the broader context of forensic science and as such an understanding of the criminal justice system is crucial for any forensic scientist.
  • Bodies, Tissues and Fluids - further develops the key principles and ideas of molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry. The module also develops new areas associated with bodies, tissues and fluids.
  • ‘Operation Vestigium*’ - Drugs and Trace Evidence Casework – takes an operational and casework approach to the analysis and evaluation of drugs of abuse and trace materials such as gunshot residue, glass, fibres, paint and soil which continue to play an important role in modern forensic science. *Vestigium: the Latin word for trace.

 

Third year

  • Forensic Case Studies – aims to develop student’s knowledge through the use of theoretical and practical forensic case studies. It considers how forensic science should, and should not, be used in tackling crime. The module also examines broader issues and areas within forensic science.
  • ‘Operation Ignis**’ – A Fire and Toxicology based investigation – a combined module, teaching two specialist areas of forensic science including the investigation of fire and explosion scenes and the area of forensic toxicology. Both elements are brought together via the investigation of a complex crime scene. **Ignis; the Latin word for Fire.
  • DNA Profiling and the Presentation of Evidence - covers all aspects of DNA profiling, including the culmination of molecular biology and the genetics themes of forensic biology. In addition, you will produce an expert witness report and undergo a mock cross examination in our courtroom
  • Research Project and Professional Skills - you will have the opportunity to lead and direct a piece of independent research in an area of forensic science, under the guidance of a member of academic staff

 

 

Professional Portfolio – this module runs in each year of our degree and enables students to take ownership of their continual personal and professional development throughout each academic year with the use of an e-portfolio and personal tutor sessions.