Forensic Science, BSc Hons

Program Overview

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Forensic Science, BSc Hons

Overview

Our degree in forensic science provides the skills to become a professional forensic scientist. With purpose-built facilities and links to local emergency and counter-terrorism services, choosing Greenwich for a forensics degree is the best decision you will make for your forensics future.

Course Details

UCAS points

104 (view full requirements)

Course/institution codes

F410 M BSc/FSc

Interested in a different year?

Select your preferred year of entry to view up to date information.

School

Science

Location

Medway Campus

Duration

• 3 years full-time
• 4 years sandwich

Start month

September

Home/international fees 2025/26

£9,535 / £17,500

What you should know about this course

• We offer specialist forensic provision, outstanding laboratory and crime scene facilities
• Practical facilities allow you to practice scenarios you will find in the workplace, including crime scene examination rooms and vehicles and an entomology facility
• You'll be taught by industry professionals with years of real world practical experience in forensic service provision
• You will be well prepared for careers in areas like homicide investigation, blood pattern analysis, molecular biology, fingerprints, toxicology, and ballistics
• This course is taught at our Medway Campus in Chatham Maritime, Kent.

Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Course Outline

Year 1

• Exploring Forensic Science (30 credits)
• Concepts in Science (30 credits)
• Practical Skills for Science (30 credits)
• Skills for Tomorrow’s Scientists (30 credits)

Year 2

• Metabolism and Disease (15 credits)
• Research and Professional Skills (15 credits)
• Intermediate Forensic Science (30 credits)
• Instrumental Analysis (15 credits)
• Skills in Crime Scene Examination, Evidence Recovery and Law (15 credits)
• Genetics (15 credits)
• Forensic Geoscience (15 credits)

Year 3

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits)
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 60 credits from this list of options:

• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (15 credits)
• Chemometrics and Informatics (15 credits)
• Advanced Instrumental Analysis (15 credits)
• Forensic Identification and Investigation (15 credits)
• Food Crime (15 credits)
• Digital Forensics for Forensic Science (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options:

• Science Internship Course (15 credits)
• Personal and Professional Development (15 credits)

Year 1 (Sandwich)

• Exploring Forensic Science (30 credits)
• Concepts in Science (30 credits)
• Practical Skills for Science (30 credits)
• Skills for Tomorrow’s Scientists (30 credits)

Year 2 (Sandwich)

• Metabolism and Disease (15 credits)
• Research and Professional Skills (15 credits)
• Intermediate Forensic Science (30 credits)
• Instrumental Analysis (15 credits)
• Skills in Crime Scene Examination, Evidence Recovery and Law (15 credits)
• Genetics (15 credits)
• Forensic Geoscience (15 credits)

Year 3 (Sandwich)

• Work Placement Module (For students taking Sandwich Year option)

Year 4 (Sandwich)

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits)
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 15 credits from this list of options:

• Science Internship Course (15 credits)
• Personal and Professional Development (15 credits)

Students are required to choose 60 credits from this list of options:

• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (15 credits)
• Chemometrics and Informatics (15 credits)
• Advanced Instrumental Analysis (15 credits)
• Forensic Identification and Investigation (15 credits)
• Food Crime (15 credits)
• Digital Forensics for Forensic Science (15 credits)

Entry Requirements

UK citizens and permanent residents

• 104 UCAS Tariff points which include one of the following:
  • A Level: a relevant Science subject, such as, Biology, Chemistry or Physics, at grade C.
  • BTEC National: Extended Diploma in Applied Science.
  • A Level and BTEC National: Extended Certificate in Applied Science and an A Level in a relevant Science subject, such as, Biology, Chemistry or Physics, at grade C.
  • International Baccalaureate: 26 points overall including Higher Level Science at grade 5.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma: Science.
  • T Level: Science (Laboratory Sciences) at grade Merit.

We make Contextual offers to this programme. Applicants that meet specific eligibility criteria will be made a contextual offer with a reduced tariff of up to 16 UCAS Tariff points. Other entry requirements such as GCSEs, Interview, etc., will still need to be met. For further information, please see our Contextual Admissions policy.

We also accept applications if you wish to transfer from another institution, and have already studied 1 or 2 years of a relevant course at level 4 or 5 and wish to continue your education at the University of Greenwich.

International entry requirements

The University of Greenwich accepts a broad range of international qualifications for admission to our courses.

For detailed information on the academic and English language requirements, please find your country in our directory.

Alternatively, please contact us at [insert contact information].

How you will learn

Teaching

Learning takes place through a combination of timetabled learning and independent study.

You can view more information about how each module is taught within our 'What you will study' section.

Seminars and workshops enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups. You will also be able to meet your personal tutor. Timetabled learning may fall between 9am and 9pm depending on your courses and tutorials.

Class sizes

Our forensic science courses allow close student and staff interaction, we pride ourselves on this level of familiarity. Some of our more generic first year modules may have larger group sizes, for example up to 100 in lectures. However, it is more usual for our subject-specific modules in that year to be much smaller, with 30-40 students per class. In the second and third years there may still be some larger groups but as students start to specialise this figure is typically reduced to 15-25 students per class.

Independent learning

At university, you must develop the ability to work more independently than you have done before. In the early stages of the degree, you will receive a higher level of support from module leaders and personal tutors. In years 2 and 3, you will need to demonstrate an increasing ability to build upon material delivered in lectures and laboratories through independent reading. Greenwich graduates should be able to think and work independently, analytically and creatively to solve problems.

Overall workload

If you are studying full-time, you should expect the workload to be similar to a full-time job. For part-time students, this will reduce in proportion with the number of courses you are studying.

Assessment

You can view how each module is assessed within our 'What you will study' section.

Each course has formal assessments which count towards your grade. Some courses may also include 'practice' assignments, which help you monitor progress and do not count towards your final grade.

Feedback summary

University policy is to give feedback on assignments within 15 working days of the coursework submission date. Examination results will be available within 28 days.

Dates and timetables

The academic year runs from September to June.

Full teaching timetables are not usually available until term has started. For any queries, please use our contact form.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Cohort | Full time | Part time | Distance learning ---|---|---|--- Home* | £9,535 | N/A | N/A International | £17,500 | N/A | N/A

University is a great investment in your future. English-domiciled graduate annual salaries were £10,500 more than non-graduates in 2023 - and the UK Government projects that 88% of new jobs by 2035 will be at graduate level.

(Source: DfE Graduate labour market statistics: 2023/DfE Labour market and skills projections: 2020 to 2035).

Fees information

• The Department for Education has indicated that it intends to raise the Home tuition fee limit from £9,250 to £9,535 for 2025/26.

Home tuition fee limits: Find out more

Other costs

• Safety equipment: Science students are provided with lab coat and safety glasses free of charge. You'll be expected to pay for prescription safety glasses (approx. £90+) if you choose to purchase them.
• Field trips: The cost of field trips is activity dependant. Some are free, while others may require a contribution. You are not obliged to pay for field trips in order to complete your course.
• Professional memberships: The standard professional memberships attached to accredited courses are covered by your tuition fees. You are welcome to take up additional professional memberships at your own cost.
• Resources: Course texts and other study resources are available from the Drill Hall Library. You may wish to purchase your own copies. You also receive an allowance for printing costs, which you can top up if required.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a wide range of financial help including scholarships and bursaries.

The Greenwich Bursary

This bursary is worth £700 for new undergraduate students with a low household income, entering Year 0 or 1 who meet the eligibility criteria.

The Greenwich Bursary

EU Bursary

Following the UK's departure from the European Union, we are supporting new EU students by offering a substantial fee-reduction for studying.

The EU bursary

Careers and placements

Will I have a work placement?

Students go to a range of companies and organisations of varying sizes for their placements, including large multi-national firms, government agencies, the NHS and small to medium sized companies engaged in research, analytical services and manufacturing (for Engineering include civil engineering and construction companies).

• Previous students have worked in: Eon, Dyson, ADEY, PS Analytical and E-liquids, GSK, NHS hospitals.
• IAESTE (British Council) placements to Brazil, Dubai and Poland.
• We have a dedicated team to search for and inform students about relevant opportunities and help students prepare for interviews.

How long is my placement?

Students can undertake a summer placement for between 6 weeks to a maximum of 3 months which can be related to a credit rated course at level 6, or can be undertaken for work experience, acknowledged by a Certificate of Industrial Experience. Students are also encouraged to apply for sandwich placements lasting between 9-12 months which sit between the second and third year of the degree.

What are the financial arrangements?

The Faculty expectation is that students are as far as possible treated like other employees of the company or organisation. It is expected that students on sandwich placements will be paid throughout their time with the company. In some cases, students on summer placements have had expenses only covered by the company. Students on sandwich placements are required to pay a reduced fee to the University for their placement year.

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

This degree will equip you with the broad scientific training and transferable skills that will give you the maximum opportunity for choice in your career. Graduates may pursue roles in forensic science and criminal justice, but also in management, communications and the wider pharmaceutical, chemical and biological sectors.

Are internships available?

Interns can gain valuable employment experience within the faculty – subject to resources. Personal tutors will be able to advise students on where to access course internships.

Do you provide employability services?

We have a team dedicated to enhancing student employment outcomes. This includes an Employer Partnerships Manager, who works with companies to provide placement and employment opportunities.

Our team will also help you understand the jobs market, produce effective CVs, and prepare for a graduate job and placement applications in your final year.

More about Careers.

Accommodation

Medway campus in Kent

Our Medway halls of residence are all located on-campus, with facilities include an on-site café, launderette and bar. And the halls are located within minutes of the historic Chatham dockyard and Chatham and Gillingham town centres.

With student-run social events, modern ensuite rooms and communal shared spaces, you’ll find that living in halls of residence will be a highlight of your University of Greenwich experience.

Rooms start at £172.06/wk and include Wi-Fi, utility bills and 24-hour residential support. Our Medway accommodation boasts 350 rooms with 24/7 security, and resident car parking permits are available.

Accommodation pages

Support and advice

Academic skills and study support

We are ambitious for all our students and we want you to make the most of your time with us. You can access support to improve your study skills through your tutor, our subject librarians and our online academic skills centre.

We have a Learning Skills Coordinator and a writing Fellow, both of whom support students in improving their writing skills. Additional Maths support is also available through the Drill Hall library. All students are allocated a personal tutor throughout the duration of their studies. The academic support available will enhance student performance.

Support from the department

Students within the Faculty of Engineering and Science have a Retention and Success Officer (RSO) whose role is to provide an additional layer of support for student engagement, and provision for extenuating circumstances, withdrawals and interruptions, Faculty level resit and Personal Development Planning enquiries.

The University wide STAART (AccessAbility Retention and Transition) course encourages and supports students with a disability, providing support for disabled students.

Do you provide employability services?

We have a team dedicated to enhancing student employment outcomes. This includes an Employer Partnerships Manager, who works with companies to provide placement and employment opportunities.

Our team will also help you understand the jobs market, produce effective CVs, and prepare for a graduate job and placement applications in your final year.

More about Careers.

Program Outline

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Forensic Science, BSc Hons - University of Greenwich

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Degree Overview:

This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of forensic science, equipping them with the scientific training and transferable skills necessary for a successful career in the field. The program emphasizes practical experience, allowing students to engage in real-life scenarios within purpose-built facilities.

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Objectives:

• Gain a thorough understanding of forensic science principles and techniques.
• Develop practical skills in crime scene examination, evidence recovery, and analysis.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Prepare for a career in forensic science or related fields.

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Outline:

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Full-time:

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Year 1:

• Biochemistry 1 (15 credits): Introduces fundamental concepts of biochemistry, including the structure and function of biomolecules.
• Biochemistry 2 (15 credits): Builds upon Biochemistry 1, exploring more advanced topics such as metabolism and enzyme kinetics.
• Basic Chemistry for Life Science (15 credits): Introduces fundamental chemical principles relevant to life sciences, including atomic structure, bonding, and chemical reactions.
• Introduction to Forensic Science (15 credits): Provides an overview of the field of forensic science, including its history, principles, and applications.
• Practical and Academic Skills (30 credits): Develops essential academic and practical skills, including research methods, data analysis, and scientific writing.

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Year 2:

• Metabolism and Disease (15 credits): Explores the relationship between metabolism and disease, including the biochemical basis of common diseases.
• Research and Professional Skills (15 credits): Develops research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): Introduces various analytical techniques used in forensic science, including chromatography, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
• Skills in Crime Scene Examination, Evidence Recovery and Law (15 credits): Provides practical training in crime scene examination, evidence recovery, and the legal framework surrounding forensic evidence.
• Forensic Geoscience (15 credits): Explores the application of geological principles to forensic investigations, including soil analysis, trace evidence analysis, and dating techniques.

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Year 3:

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits): Students undertake an independent research project, applying their knowledge and skills to a specific forensic science topic.
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits): Covers advanced topics in forensic science, including specialized areas such as forensic anthropology, forensic entomology, and digital forensics.

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Optional Modules (60 credits):

• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (15 credits): Explores the application of anthropological and archaeological techniques to forensic investigations.
• Chemometrics and Informatics (15 credits): Introduces the use of statistical and computational methods in forensic science.
• Advanced Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): Covers advanced analytical techniques used in forensic science, including high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
• Food Crime (15 credits): Examines the application of forensic science to food safety and security, including food adulteration, fraud, and terrorism.
• Digital Forensics for Forensic Science (15 credits): Introduces the principles and techniques of digital forensics, including computer forensics, mobile device forensics, and network forensics.
• Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology (15 credits): Covers advanced topics in molecular biology, including gene expression, protein synthesis, and biotechnology.
• Advanced and Clinical Immunology (15 credits): Explores the principles and applications of immunology, including the immune system, immune disorders, and immunotherapies.
• Medical Microbiology (15 credits): Covers the principles of microbiology, including the identification, classification, and control of microorganisms.
• Medical Biochemistry (15 credits): Explores the biochemical basis of human health and disease, including metabolic pathways, enzyme kinetics, and the role of biomolecules in disease.

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Optional Modules (15 credits):

• Science Internship Course (15 credits): Provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a scientific setting.
• Personal and Professional Development (15 credits): Develops personal and professional skills, including communication, teamwork, and leadership.

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Sandwich Year:

• Work Placement Module (For students taking Sandwich Year option): Students undertake a year-long placement in a relevant industry setting, gaining practical experience and applying their knowledge to real-world situations.

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Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module, but typically include:

• Coursework: Assignments, essays, and reports allow students to demonstrate their research, analytical, and writing skills.
• Practical Assessments: Laboratory experiments, crime scene simulations, and case studies assess students' practical skills and ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Presentations: Oral presentations allow students to communicate their findings and ideas effectively.

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Teaching:

• Lectures: Lectures provide a structured overview of key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Seminars offer a more interactive learning environment, allowing students to discuss and debate topics in smaller groups.
• Workshops: Workshops provide hands-on training in practical skills, such as crime scene examination and evidence analysis.
• Laboratory Sessions: Laboratory sessions provide students with the opportunity to conduct experiments and develop their practical skills.
• Field Trips: Field trips to real-world locations, such as crime scenes and forensic laboratories, provide students with valuable insights into the practical application of forensic science.

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Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified academics with expertise in various areas of forensic science. Many faculty members have extensive experience working in law enforcement, forensic laboratories, and other relevant fields, bringing real-world experience to the classroom.

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Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in forensic science and related fields, including:

• Forensic Scientist: Analyze evidence collected from crime scenes and provide expert testimony in court.
• Crime Scene Investigator: Collect and preserve evidence at crime scenes.
• Forensic Pathologist: Determine the cause of death in suspicious or unexplained cases.
• Forensic Toxicologist: Analyze biological samples for the presence of drugs and poisons.
• Forensic Anthropologist: Identify and analyze human remains.
• Forensic Entomologist: Use insects to assist in investigations, such as determining time of death.
• Forensic Ballistics Expert: Analyze firearms and ammunition to determine the origin of bullets and other projectiles.
• Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial crimes, such as fraud and money laundering.
• Forensic Psychologist: Assess the mental state of suspects and victims.

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Other:

• The program is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, providing graduates with a recognized qualification and free membership throughout their studies.
• The program is taught at the Medway Campus in Chatham Maritime, Kent, which offers state-of-the-art facilities, including a purpose-built crime scene facility, a vehicle examination garage, and modern laboratory spaces.
• Students have the opportunity to work alongside experts from Kent Fire Brigade, the Metropolitan and Kent Police Services, Counter Terrorism, UKDVI, and the Natural History Museum, gaining valuable practical experience.
• The program offers a sandwich year option, allowing students to gain practical experience in a relevant industry setting.

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• Home/international fees 2024/25
£9,250 /£17,000