School of Life Sciences

BSc (Hons) Forensic Science

BSc (Hons) Part-time 6 years, Full-time 3 years

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science course will expose you to a diverse range of scientific disciplines and skills that will enable you to work in a variety of roles within forensic science. 

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The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science course will expose you to a diverse range of scientific disciplines and skills that will enable you to work in a variety of roles within forensic science. 

Award
BSc (Hons)
Start date(s)
September 2024
UCAS Code
F410
Course specifications
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Course length
Part-time (6 years),Full-time (3 years)
Campus location
Wolverhampton City Campus
School
School of Life Sciences
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My degree in science didn't just teach me scientific theories and principles, as during the 3 years of the course I developed graduate skills such as presenting, data analysis, and researching. These made me the ideal candidate for multiple graduate schemes and business roles. 
Maryaa Bibi, BSc Forensic Science (2016 Alumni)

Why choose this course?

Accredited by The Chartered Institute of Forensic Sciences

University of Wolverhampton and West Midlands Police Forensic Science Partnership

Teaching Innovation Award winners 2022

Logo of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences    Logo of the West Midlands Police   Teaching Innovation Award Winner icon

Pursuing a BSc Forensic Science degree opens up a diverse range of career opportunities within the forensic science field. Studying forensic science hones students' problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and time management skills, and the skills acquired through the program enable graduates to pursue career opportunities in many other fields, including research, academia, and healthcare.

Studying this degree is crucial for those wishing to pursue a career in the forensic industry. Forensic science takes scientific knowledge and methodology to answer specific questions in a legal investigation, in order to assist a court to decide what has happened. Considering the whole forensic process, from crime scene to court, this course will enable you to develop your skills in scientific and critical thinking, as well as independent study. You will also gain skills to record, recover, examine, and analyse evidence, to interpret the meaning of your findings and then communicate those findings and the underpinning science so that they are understandable to a range of audiences.

How is the BSc Forensic Science degree delivered?

During your forensic science degree, you will be exposed to a diverse range of scientific disciplines and skills that will enable you to work in a variety of roles within forensic science, while also equipping you with transferable skills to work in a wide variety of other roles and areas. In addition, if you choose to undertake a sandwich placement, you will develop your technical skills in the workplace and integrate knowledge gained in the theoretical aspects of the course into the professional environment.

BSc Forensic Science at the University of Wolverhampton

At the University of Wolverhampton, we are proud to produce graduates who go on to use forensic science techniques acquired on the course to assist the police and legal professions. Importantly, our forensic science courses are professionally accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

What happens on the course?

The BSc Forensic Science course introduces students to a broad range of interesting topics:

Year 1 - The first year of this exciting course introduces you to the world of forensic science and crime scene investigation, as well as providing the science that you will need to become a practising forensic analyst. These include key topics in genetics, biochemistry and cell biology together with an introduction to the legal system within which forensic scientists work. The course will deliver introductory modules in methods of forensic analysis and the role of forensic science in modern society.

Year 2 - During the second year of study, students will engage with the major subject areas within forensic science, including the considerations of evidence gathering at crime scenes. The use of DNA and insects in forensic work will be covered, as will the examination of chemicals as evidence. The information that bones and gravesites can tell us are also important aspects covered by the course. In addition, you will be introduced to methods for the examination and the analysis of a range of evidence types including fingerprints, drugs, fibres, glass, and bloodstains found at scenes of crime. You will have regular opportunities to put theory into practise in an extensive range of practical sessions, including crime scene investigation.

Year 3 - If a sandwich placement is not pursued, students will move directly to the final year of study, where you will study the science behind the work of forensic pathologists and toxicologists, examine in more detail many of the analytical techniques used by forensic scientists and experience the application of your knowledge and skills in the courtroom environment. We prepare you for working in a laboratory environment and for management roles in that sector, by considering the importance of quality within forensic science. Your Honours project will enable you to undertake a thorough piece of scientific research investigating an area of forensic science chosen by you.

Course Modules

Module: 4BC003
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

The module studies cell biology and genetics through investigation of cell structure and organelles, gene structure, function and expression. It will look at chromosome structure and function within mitosis and meiosis and an introduction to mendelian genetics. The module will introduce gene manipulation and PCR.

Module: 4BC001
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module builds on concepts of chemistry you will have learnt at GCSE or AS level. You will gain an understanding of the chemical principles required in further studies in forensic and biomolecular science. You will either not have studied A-level Chemistry, or you will have achieved no better than an C grade at A-level Chemistry or its equivalent.

Module: 4FS008
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module is designed to give an introduction to a variety of key skills required for Forensic Scientists. This includes various general undergraduate skills and forensic specific analysis. This skills are particularly developed through practical sessions.

Module: 4FS004
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module introduces you to the basic principles of qualitative and quantitative analysis, and a range of laboratory analytical techniques relevant to forensic science.

Module: 4FS005
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module gives an introduction to forensic toxicology aimed at forensic science students. The study of forensic toxicology is supported by study of drug chemistry, elementary physiology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

Module: 4FS009
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

This module is designed to build upon the skills and knowledge developed in Fundamentals of Forensic Science. A strong emphasis will be placed on the practical aspects of the nature, collection, packaging and interpretation of evidence as well as the wide range scientific techniques commonly used in evaluating evidence. Through case scenario workshops, a wide range of practical and other activities, you will be introduced to the critical thinking and interpretation of evidence that is necessary to make sense of crime scenes. You will also learn the processes that the UK Criminal Justice System and how forensic information can support the judicial process.

Module: 5FS001
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module covers the techniques required to undertake scenes of fire and crime work. The practical approaches and considerations along with the context of the material will be delivered via a lecture series with simulation exercises. The module will be assessed by a terminal examination.

Module: 5FS006
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module will provide students with practical experience of handling crime scenes from the point of entry through to evidence recovery. It will include the processing of: indoor, outdoor, and vehicle scenes and cover activities ranging from documenting the scene with written and photographic methods, recovery and packing of evidence, to briefing the Senior Investigating Officer.

Module: 5FS003
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module covers the analytical approaches used for the identification and quantification of compounds using a range of analytical techniques. You will be guided through the whole process covering key stages e.g. collection of representative samples, analysis and interpretation of results. You will also learn a range of principles of forensic toxicology and have practical experience in applying analytical techniques to questions/problems of forensic toxicology.

Module: 5FS002
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module aims to provide you with an introduction to selected biological aspects of Forensic Science. This starts with developing an appreciation of Forensic DNA Analysis, DNA as Evidence and Serology, which will include an overview of DNA analysis methodology and an introduction into population genetics and related statistics and stochastics. Methods of evidence sample collection, recording and storage shall also be investigated, as will the different approaches to blood group analysis. The Forensic Anthropology section provides an overview of methodology to determine sex, age, body height, ancestry and other identity characteristics from skeletonized human remains, followed by further anthropological topics like facial reconstruction. You will also learn about post mortem decomposition processes and how these can be analyzed to determine the Post Mortem Interval (PMI). The module includes a number of practical sessions in which you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge acquired in the theory sessions to practical applications.

Module: 5FS013
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

The module will cover a number of forensically important areas including the analysis of paints, questioned document analysis (including handwriting, signatures, altered documents, etc.), bloodstain pattern analysis, forensic ballistics and digital (computer) forensics.

Module: 5FS010
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

The module will consider various types of trace evidence, such as glass, fibres, pollen, soils and drugs, and forensic contexts in which they might occur. The module will include analytical methods relevant to such evidence, including microscopy. The theoretical content will be supported by a number of practicals and workshops relating to trace evidence.

Module: 6FS008
Credits: 20
Period: 3
Type: Core

The module investigates a number of forensic biology topics including forensic entomology, forensic botany, forensic mycology, forensic microbiology and advanced forensic DNA analysis such as multiplex PCR parameters. The module aims to introduce you to the subject area of forensic pathology by describing the role of the forensic medical examiner, forensic pathologist, coroner and coroner’s court. It will look at the determination of injury, determination of cause of death by physical and toxicological trauma. Scientific methodologies in determining cause of death will be analysed.

Module: 6FS005
Credits: 20
Period: 3
Type: Core

This module develops your previous study of a range of analytical techniques used in forensic chemical analysis, and introduces you to new analytical techniques. The range of approaches to advanced chemical forensic analysis will include hypernated mass spectroscopy, microscopy fluorescence,and electrophoresis. You will be shown how these techniques are applied in forensic chemical analysis.

Module: 6FS010
Credits: 40
Period: 3
Type: Core

The Honours Project module will give you the opportunity to undertake an extended, problem-focused, original investigation related to your overall programme of study and is a requirement for the award of Honours. The Project will provide you with a choice based on your interests, modules studied previously, staff expertise and physical resources within the School. The project must be approved for safety, ethics, cost, feasibility and relevance to your degree programme before you carry out any practical work. The project module will test your ability to develop successfully (a) the formulation of a Project design and specification, (b) an assessment of hazards, risk assessment and required safety procedures, (c) ethical considerations, where appropriate, (d) a survey of published literature and other source materials, (e) the execution of the Project objectives, (f) an independent programme of fieldwork, laboratory or other practical study, (g) progress presentation(s) on key stages and (h) the preparation of a written Dissertation and/or other suitable and equivalent submission of the Project outcomes. Students would normally register and gain approval for for their chosen project title towards the end of Level 5 study. Students normally undertake practical work during the semester 1 & early semester 2 of the final year of study. Anyone with special needs affecting their study or ability to participate in the module must inform the University support services and module leader / supervisor at the earliest opportunity.

Module: 6FS002
Credits: 20
Period: 3
Type: Core

This module is concerned with the issue of quality in forensic analysis. The concept of quality is considered in terms of the application of quality assurance (QA) and accreditation schemes in laboratory analysis, and the quality of analytical data using appropriate mathematical and statistical tests. The module also includes the application of Bayesian statistics in forensic analysis.

Module: 6FS009
Credits: 20
Period: 3
Type: Core

This module will cover the role of the expert witness in the courtroom focusing on the dual role of examining the work of others in presenting materials in court as well as preparing scientific evidence in courts of law

Potential Career Paths

You!

Forensic Scientist

Crime Scene Investigator

Police Officer

Toxicologist

Science Communicator

Quality Assurance

Teacher

Detective

Scientific Laboratory Technician

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

Your lecturers include practitioners and research scientists working to solve problems and answer questions. You will work in our state-of-the-art Rosalind Franklin Science Building with access to a range of advanced instrumentation, including the Locard House and the crime scene facilities we have to offer.

The University of Wolverhampton was the first university in the West Midlands to receive full accreditation from the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS)  for BSc Forensic Science.  A recent surveillance visit, re-accrediting the course, praised us for the quality of the award. It is also recognised by the Royal Society for Chemistry (RSC) as meeting the requirements for Associate Membership of the RSC.

Additionally, the University of Wolverhampton and West Midlands Police Forensic Science Partnership formed in 2023, provides an enhanced student experience and important employability opportunities, including policing and forensic science professional practice guest lecturers, opportunities for professional practice research projects and work experience placements, and access to West Midlands Police careers events as well as important networking and employability links with West Midlands Police and their Forensic Services department.

  • You will be a highly articulate individual capable of explaining most exciting areas within science in non-specialist language.

  • You will also be literate, numerate and have a high level of IT skills making you well equipped for today’s workplace.

  • You will be able to carry out laboratory analysis and will have the ability to enter any type of laboratory work and achieve within that employment sector.

  • You will have gained broad scientific knowledge in both biology and chemistry and so are able to deal with both subject areas.

Location Mode Fee Year
Home Full-time £9250 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £9250 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £9250 per year 2023-24
Home Full-time £9250 per year 2023-24
Home Full-time £9250 per year 2024-25
Home Part-time £3120 per year# 2022-23
Home Part-time £3120 per year# 2022-23
Home Part-time £4625 per year# 2023-24
Home Part-time £4625 per year# 2023-24
Home Part-time £4625 per year# 2024-25
International Full-time £13950 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £13950 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £14950 per year 2023-24
International Full-time £14950 per year 2023-24
International Full-time £15450 per year 2024-25

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed

# Undergraduate part-time fees for 50% rate of study

  • 96 UCAS points
  • A Levels - grades CCC / BCD, to include Biology or Chemistry.
  • BTEC L3 Extended Diploma or OCR Cambridge L3 Technical Extended Diploma in Applied Science - grades MMM
  • Access to HE Diploma (60 credits) of which a minimum of 45 must be at Level 3 (96 UCAS point equivalence, minimum 45 credits at merit, to include 36 credits in Science)

Use the UCAS Tariff calculator to check your qualifications and points

Students must usually have studied for a minimum of two years post GCSE level. However, we will consider applications from mature students who do not have two years of post-16 study, where they have relevant work experience. Please see http://wlv.ac.uk/mature for further information.

If you've got other qualifications or relevant experience, please contact The Gateway for further advice before applying.

International entry requirements and application guidance can be found at http://www.wlv.ac.uk/international/apply

English language requirements also apply

 

"During my degree I had the opportunity to study a Forensic Anthropology module, which ignited an unquenchable interest in ‘bones and bodies’. Because of this, I went on to study for a Masters in Forensic and Biological Anthropology. I am now back at the University completing my Ph.D. research on post mortem decomposition."

"During the course I found that all of the lecturers were very knowledgeable, approachable and caring. I was quite ill during my last year, but allowances were made which helped me cope. I always felt there was someone to turn to when I needed help."

"Last year, I landed a dream job! As a criminal intelligence analyst with the West Midlands Police I help to reduce crime, disorder, and antisocial behaviour. To get the job, I had to show that I had both the ability to work analytically and a logical way of thinking. The Forensic Science degree at Wolverhampton was the perfect preparation for this! The final year project was especially useful, because it helped me to develop the analytical skills I need for the job and gave me the confidence to present my work, which are both important aspects of my new job."

Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

Tuition Fees Loan (Home Fee Status):

Most students will be able to apply for a loans to pay for these subject to eligibility. To find out more information please refer to the government Student Finance website.

Changes for EU students:

The UK government has confirmed that EU students starting courses from 1 August 2021 will normally be classified as having Overseas Fee status. More information about the change is available at UKCISA:

EU citizens living in the UK with 'settled' status, and Irish nationals living in the UK or Ireland, will still be classified as Home students, providing they meet the usual residency requirements, for more information about EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) click here.


Self-funding:

If you don’t want to take out a loan to pay your fees or if you aren’t eligible to receive a loan, you might want to take advantage of the University’s scheme to pay by instalments: See How to pay.

For more information please contact the Gateway.


Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:

If your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.


Financial Hardship:

Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.


Bursaries and Scholarships:

In addition the University also offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships packages

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

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