BSc (Hons) Forensic Science
University of Lincoln
Key Information
Campus location
Lincoln, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
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Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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Introduction
Forensic scientists provide impartial evidence in criminal investigations through their scientific expertise. They work in laboratories, at crime scenes, and in courtrooms, utilising their highly developed biology and chemistry skills. Their highly detailed work encompasses elements of chemistry and biology applied in areas such as toxicology, DNA analysis, and trace evidence.
The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science degree is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge required by forensic scientists in order to apply scientific expertise in criminal investigations. The degree aims to develop skills and knowledge in a range of forensic science tasks, including crime scene investigation, physical evidence collection, sample analysis, and defence of testimony. This academically challenging course combines a broad spectrum of subjects, including advanced chemical and biological analysis, forensic toxicology, and crime scene management.
"This information was correct at the time of publishing (July 2023)"
Admissions
Curriculum
How You Study
In years one and two, students are introduced to the principles of forensic science and crime scene investigation alongside key aspects of biology and analytical sciences. The final year offers students the chance to study specialist areas of forensic science and to develop their skills in the presentation of evidence.
The third year also offers students the opportunity to take part in an optional overseas field trip. Previous destinations have included Guatemala, New York, and Toronto. Students who choose to participate in the optional overseas field trip must pay for their own flights and some general living costs. Accommodation is provided by the University.
Teaching methods include conventional lectures (which cover the core subject material), practical classes, and field visits (which cover the technical and vocational skills of forensic science). These are supported by tutorials and seminars.
First Year
- Analytical Chemistry 1: Molecular Techniques (Core)
- Crime Scene Investigation (Core)
- Human Anatomy and Physiology (Core)
- Introduction to Life Sciences (Core)
- Professional Practice 1.1: Crime Scene to Court (Core)
- Professional Practice 1.2: Forensic Laboratory Analysis (Core)
Second Year
- Advanced Crime Scene Investigation (Core)
- Analytical Chemistry 2.1: Separation Techniques (Core)
- Analytical Chemistry 2.2: Structural Techniques (Core)
- Human Identification (Core)
- Molecular Biology (Core)
- Professional Practice 2.1: Scientific Experimental Design (Core)
- Professional Practice 2.2: Quality Assurance and Regulation (Core)
- Trace Evidence (Core)
Third Year
- Drugs of Abuse and Forensic Toxicology (Core)
- Fire, Explosives and Nuclear Forensics (Core)
- Forensic Application of Biological Specialisms (Core)
- Professional Practice 3: Presentation of Evidence (Core)
- Research Project (Core)
- Overseas Field Course (Forensic) (Option)†
- Public Understanding of Forensic Science (Option)†
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
How You Are Assessed
Most modules on this course are assessed using a mixture of examinations and coursework. Coursework includes practical reports, project work, oral presentations, and written submissions.
The weighting given to each assessment method may vary across each academic year. The University of Lincoln aims to ensure that staff return in-course assessments to students promptly.
Accreditations
This programme has full accreditation from the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, meaning students are eligible for associate membership. The Society is the main professional body for individuals working as forensic practitioners, academics, and researchers and in related professions in the UK, and is considered to be the ‘international voice of forensic science’.
Gallery
Program Outcome
How You Study
In years one and two, students are introduced to the principles of forensic science and crime scene investigation alongside key aspects of biology and analytical sciences. The final year offers students the chance to study specialist areas of forensic science and to develop their skills in the presentation of evidence.
The third year also offers students the opportunity to take part in an optional overseas field trip. Previous destinations have included Guatemala, New York, and Toronto. Students who choose to participate in the optional overseas field trip must pay for their own flights and some general living costs. Accommodation is provided by the University.
Teaching methods include conventional lectures (which cover the core subject material), practical classes, and field visits (which cover the technical and vocational skills of forensic science). These are supported by tutorials and seminars.
Scholarships and Funding
For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships.
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
This course is designed to enable you to develop the advanced practical and analytical skills beneficial to a range of careers. Graduates may go on to roles in law enforcement organisations including police forces, HMRC, environmental health, private sector investigatory agencies, and in laboratories in the forensic, pharmaceutical, and food sectors. Opportunities also exist in teaching and research. Previous students have started careers as DNA analysts, crime scene investigators, analytical chemists, and reporting forensic practitioners.