Forensic Science, BSc (Hons)

This course offers a comprehensive foundation in chemical and biological sciences, integrated with essential forensic skills such as crime scene evaluation, evidence collection, preservation, and legal considerations. Students explore forensic science's role in the criminal justice system, working collaboratively to manage scenes, analyze evidence, and deliver expert testimony in court. Through a 'crime scene to court' framework, participants gain practical and theoretical knowledge of analyzing forensic materials like toxicology, DNA, anthropology, and particulates, ensuring findings withstand legal scrutiny.Key benefits include access to expert practitioners in biology, chemistry, and forensics, fostering authentic learning and multidisciplinary career opportunities. The program features simulated crime scene assessments in dedicated facilities, using advanced techniques like 3D modeling and digital photography. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in forensic and related fields, with a focus on global applications and professional development.

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. Modules Criminal and Civil Law Crime Scene Examination Fundamental Science and Laboratory Techniques Human Evidence Forensic Science in Practice Physical Evidence 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. Modules Forensic Genetics Trace, Marks and Impressions Complex Crime Scene Examination Evidence, Analysis and Interpretation 3D Forensic Modelling Forensic Anthropology and Ecology Principles of Toxicology and Drug Examination 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 further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website. 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. Modules Research Design for Forensic and Biological Sciences Independent Project in Forensic and Biological Sciences International Forensic Science Advances in Biological Analysis Case Studies in Industry Crime Scene to Courtroom 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. For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website