Forensic Science BSc (Hons) Modules

First year 

• Forensic Chemistry - provides a thorough introduction to all aspects of theoretical and practical forensic chemistry
• Forensic Biology - as with the Forensic Chemistry module, this module is designed to provide a thorough introduction to all aspects of forensic biology
• Forensic Imaging and Photography - covers the vital subject of recording the crime scene and evidence using standard photographic techniques and other imaging techniques used in forensic science
• Essentials of Forensic Investigations - provides an overview of the breadth and scope of forensic science, putting everything in its proper context and providing an introduction to other modules
• Professional and Quantitative Scientific Skills - develops your understanding of vitally important themes, including data analysis, IT skills, mathematics and statistics

Second year 

• Bodies, Tissues and Fluids - further develops the key principles and ideas of molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry from the Forensic Biology module
• Materials ID - explores how techniques in analytical chemistry can be applied to the analysis of a range of evidence types in order to characterise and identify them
• Drugs of Abuse - this wide-ranging module looks at the chemistry and biology of substance abuse and misuse, and covers drug characterisation and identification, and the biological basis of addiction and drug action
• Analytical Forensic Chemistry - covers techniques used in forensic analytical chemistry and their applications
• Forensic IT - covers all aspects of forensic IT and its use in tackling crime
• Issues in Criminal Justice - 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

Third year

• Forensic Case Studies and the Presentation of Evidence - looks at several cases demonstrating how forensic science should, and should not, be used in tackling crime. You will produce an expert witness report and undergo a mock cross examination in our courtroom
• Fire, Arson and Explosions - examines the specialist aspects of crime scene processing associated with fire and explosions, as well as considering the physical chemistry of combustion and explosions
• Authenticity and Fraud - based on a case study oriented approach this module looks at broader issues within forensic science and helps you to further develop your problem solving and analytical skills
• DNA Profiling - covers all aspects of DNA profiling, including the culmination of molecular biology and the genetics theme of forensic biology
• Forensic Chemical Pathology - examines toxicology, poisonings and overdoses, and examines the physiology, biochemistry and pathology of drugs, venoms and poisons
• 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

Each of the modules are taught for around 25 weeks throughout the academic year and the course is structured such that three main themes are developed:

• Forensic biology
• Forensic chemistry 
• Context; giving you a thorough understanding of forensic science and its place in the criminal justice system

Please note that this programme may contain descriptions of crime, sexual activity, physical and sexual violence, alcohol and drug misuse and death which some people may find distressing. These may form an important and compulsory aspect to the syllabus.