Forensic Science, BSc (Hons)

Course summary

The course provides students with a foundation in chemical and biological sciences coupled with forensic science requirements such as crime scene evaluation, collection and preservation of evidence, and legal aspects. Forensic science is a critical part of the criminal justice system. A forensic scientist will work in a diverse team to help resolve crimes, and will need to manage crime scenes, analyse evidence, and present expert witness statements in court. Through a ‘crime scene to court’ approach, students will be guided through essential concepts such as crime scene evaluation and preservation through to analysis, interpretation, and presentation of collected evidence. Students will gain a keen theoretical and practical understanding of how science underpin the analysis of forensic materials and how this must withstand legal challenges. Students will consider a range of forensic evidence types from toxicology, DNA, anthropology, particulates such as glass, and fire & explosive residues. Key Course BenefitsAuthentic applications using expert knowledge of practitioners in the fields of biology, chemistry, pharmacology, forensic science and forensic investigation who bring research and practical experiences into the classroom. A ‘Crime Scene to Court’ design that guides students from initially securing a scene through to analysing materials and presenting evidence in a court of law. This allows students to understand the entire forensic science process as well as the responsibilities of the people involved.  The multidisciplinary nature of the course means that graduates will be able to apply their knowledge to a range of employment and entrepreneurship opportunities within or outside the forensic science area.      Opportunities to examine complex scenes in internal, external and international contexts exploring the use of 3D modelling, photography, and anthropology as methods of gathering forensic data.  Students will be able to assess simulated crime scenes in our crime scene houses, and other settings, and will then examine evidence in our biological and analytical laboratories applying relevant analytical and evaluation techniques.

Year One Year one introduces you to the basic scientific principles and practices of chemical and biological analysis. Forensic science theory is introduced as well as criminal law and the role of individuals and crime scene specialists, where you will develop skills in team working, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship. Forensic protocols in crime scene examination and collection, preservation and subsequent analysis of both human and physical evidence is explored. You will be supported to become confident, competent, and safe in laboratory and crime scene environments as well as develop your writing, numerical, research and presentation skills in preparation for your subsequent years. Year Two In year two, you will build on your knowledge of forensic science, covering topics such as forensic genetics, analysis of trace, marks and impressions found within complex indoor and outdoor crime scenes. You will use more complex methods of evidence evaluation such as 3D modelling, virtual reality environments and digital photography. To complete your studies you will further explore areas such as toxicology and the examination of drugs, forensic ecology and taphonomy studies. Placement Year On successful completion of years one and two, you may elect to apply for either a one-year work experience placement, or a year of study abroad. These opportunities offer highly valued opportunities to enhance learning and help gain a competitive advantage in the workplace after graduation. Students taking this option will take an additional year to complete their degree. Work experience placements are competitive and successful acceptance cannot be guaranteed. Our Talent Team offer support for students in the application process. You should note that some work placements may require additional health and professional suitability checks including DBS and enhanced DBS criminal record checks. If you are unable to meet the health and suitability requirements, then the choice of placement opportunities will be restricted*. If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee* of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement. Final Year The final year will build on your knowledge gained from years one and two by exploring the role of forensic science on a global and international scale. Current and future techniques will be considered in relation to a variety of industries to allow you wider opportunities for career development. You will further develop research skills by undertaking a research project and will also produce a prosecution file culminating in a mock trial thus providing a capstone experience to the course in a crime scene to court module. We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated. Before accepting any offers, please check the website for the most up to date course content. For full module details please check the course page on the Coventry University website. *For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website