Forensic Science with Criminology (Extended), BSc Hons

Program Overview

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Forensic Science with Criminology (Extended), BSc Hons

Overview

This extended degree in forensic science with criminology covers subjects such as biology and physiology, forensic geoscience, and chemistry for life science. You'll also study modules in criminology, including policing, violence in society, and the psychology of terrorism. Hands-on study includes sessions held in the lab and at mock crime scenes.

Course Details

UCAS points

64 (view full requirements)

Course/institution codes

F412 M BSc/FSC(E)

Interested in a different year?

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

School

Science

Location

Medway Campus

Duration

• 4 years full-time
• 5 years sandwich

Start month

September

Home/international fees 2025/26

• Home: £9,535
• International: £17,500

What you should know about this course

• This four-year course is identical to the three-year one, but has a foundation year with lower entry requirements
• The foundation year includes academic writing, computing skills, introduction to the subject, and more
• Practical facilities allow you to practice scenarios you will find in the workplace, including crime scene examination rooms and vehicles and an entomology facility
• Gain a foundation in criminological perspectives to understand the theory of crime and criminality
• This course is taught at our Medway Campus in Chatham Maritime, Kent.

Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Course Outline

Year 0

• Introduction to Biology (30 credits)
• Introduction to Chemistry (30 credits)
• Introductory Practical Science (30 credits)
• Learning Skills for Science (30 credits)

Year 1

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

Year 2

• 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)
• Forensic Geoscience (15 credits)
• Criminological Perspectives (30 credits)

Year 3

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits)
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits)
• Choose 30 credits from:
  • The Psychology of Terrorism (15 credits)
  • Women, Power, Crime and Justice (30 credits)
  • Crime in the City, Crime and the State (30 credits)
  • Perspectives on Violence (15 credits)
• Choose 30 credits from:
  • 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)
• Choose 15 credits from:
  • Science Internship Course (15 credits)
  • Personal and Professional Development (15 credits)

Entry Requirements

UK citizens and permanent residents

• 64 UCAS Tariff points which include one of the following:
  • A Level: including one of the following STEM subjects
  • BTEC National: in relevant STEM subject
  • A Level and BTEC National: including one of the following STEM subjects
  • International Baccalaureate: 24 points overall including Higher Level Science
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma: in one of the following STEM subjects
  • T Level: in relevant STEM subject at grade Pass (with D or E on the Core)

International entry requirements

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

How you will learn

Teaching

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

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.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

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

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.

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.

• 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?

Potential career opportunities exist in forensic science and criminal justice, and more broadly in management, communications and the wider pharmaceutical, chemical and biological science 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.

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.

Support and advice

Academic skills and study support

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. We also offer an additional course 'Learning Skills for Science' aimed at Foundation stage students. 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.

Program Outline

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Forensic Science with Criminology (Extended), BSc Hons

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Degree Overview:

This four-year extended degree in Forensic Science with Criminology is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both forensic science and criminology. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for a successful career in these fields. The program covers a wide range of subjects, including:

• Biology and Physiology: Students will gain a strong foundation in biological and physiological principles relevant to forensic science.
• Forensic Geoscience: This module explores the application of geological principles to forensic investigations.
• Chemistry for Life Science: Students will develop their understanding of chemical principles and their application in forensic science.
• Criminology: The program includes modules on various aspects of criminology, such as policing, violence in society, and the psychology of terrorism.
The program features hands-on learning experiences, including:
• Laboratory sessions: Students will gain practical experience in forensic techniques and procedures.
• Mock crime scene examinations: Students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in realistic scenarios.
The course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the professional body for forensic science worldwide.
• Introduction to Chemistry (30 credits): This module introduces students to the basic concepts of chemistry.
• Introductory Practical Science (30 credits): This module provides practical experience in scientific methods and techniques.
• Foundation Mathematics (15 credits): This module covers essential mathematical concepts relevant to science.
• Basic Chemistry for Life Science (15 credits): This module expands on the foundation year's chemistry knowledge, focusing on its application in life sciences.
• Introduction to Forensic Science (15 credits): This module introduces students to the principles and practices of forensic science.
• Practical and Academic Skills (30 credits): This module develops practical and academic skills relevant to forensic science.
• Foundations of Criminology (30 credits): This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts and theories of criminology.

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Year 2:

• Research and Professional Skills (15 credits): This module develops research and professional skills essential for forensic science careers.
• Intermediate Forensic Science (30 credits): This module builds upon the introductory forensic science module, covering more advanced topics.
• Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): This module explores the use of analytical instruments in forensic science.
• Skills in Crime Scene Examination, Evidence Recovery and Law (15 credits): This module provides practical training in crime scene examination and evidence recovery techniques.
• Forensic Geoscience (15 credits): This module explores the application of geological principles to forensic investigations.
• Criminological Perspectives (30 credits): This module examines various perspectives on crime and criminal justice.

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Year 3:

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits): This module involves a substantial research project in chemical sciences.
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits): This module covers advanced topics in forensic science.

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Optional Modules (30 credits):

• The Psychology of Terrorism (15 credits): This module explores the psychological factors involved in terrorism.
• Women, Power, Crime and Justice (30 credits): This module examines the intersection of gender, power, crime, and justice.
• Crime in the City, Crime and the State (30 credits): This module explores the relationship between crime, urban environments, and the state.
• Perspectives on Violence (15 credits): This module examines various perspectives on violence and its causes.

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Optional Modules (30 credits):

• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (15 credits): This module explores the application of anthropological and archaeological methods to forensic investigations.
• Chemometrics and Informatics (15 credits): This module covers the use of statistical and computational methods in forensic science.
• Advanced Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): This module explores advanced techniques in instrumental analysis.
• Forensic Identification and Investigation (15 credits): This module focuses on forensic identification methods and investigative techniques.
• Food Crime (15 credits): This module examines the nature and investigation of food-related crimes.
• Digital Forensics for Forensic Science (15 credits): This module explores the application of digital forensics to forensic investigations.
• Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology (15 credits): This module covers advanced topics in molecular biology.
• Advanced and Clinical Immunology (15 credits): This module explores advanced concepts in immunology.
• Medical Microbiology (15 credits): This module covers the principles of medical microbiology.
• Medical Biochemistry (15 credits): This module explores the biochemical processes relevant to medicine.

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Optional Modules (15 credits):

• Science Internship Course (15 credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a science-related internship.
• Personal and Professional Development (15 credits): This module focuses on developing personal and professional skills.

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Year 4 (Sandwich Year):

• Work Placement Module (For students taking Sandwich Year option): This module provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a relevant work placement.

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Year 4 (Full-time):

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits): This module involves a substantial research project in chemical sciences.
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits): This module covers advanced topics in forensic science.

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Optional Modules (30 credits):

• The Psychology of Terrorism (15 credits): This module explores the psychological factors involved in terrorism.
• Women, Power, Crime and Justice (30 credits): This module examines the intersection of gender, power, crime, and justice.
• Crime in the City, Crime and the State (30 credits): This module explores the relationship between crime, urban environments, and the state.
• Perspectives on Violence (15 credits): This module examines various perspectives on violence and its causes.

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Optional Modules (30 credits):

• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (15 credits): This module explores the application of anthropological and archaeological methods to forensic investigations.
• Chemometrics and Informatics (15 credits): This module covers the use of statistical and computational methods in forensic science.
• Advanced Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): This module explores advanced techniques in instrumental analysis.
• Forensic Identification and Investigation (15 credits): This module focuses on forensic identification methods and investigative techniques.
• Food Crime (15 credits): This module examines the nature and investigation of food-related crimes.
• Digital Forensics for Forensic Science (15 credits): This module explores the application of digital forensics to forensic investigations.
• Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology (15 credits): This module covers advanced topics in molecular biology.
• Advanced and Clinical Immunology (15 credits): This module explores advanced concepts in immunology.
• Medical Microbiology (15 credits): This module covers the principles of medical microbiology.
• Medical Biochemistry (15 credits): This module explores the biochemical processes relevant to medicine.

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Optional Modules (15 credits):

• Science Internship Course (15 credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a science-related internship.
• Personal and Professional Development (15 credits): This module focuses on developing personal and professional skills.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Exams: These assess students' understanding of theoretical concepts and principles.
• Coursework: This includes essays, reports, and presentations, allowing students to demonstrate their research and analytical skills.
• Practical assessments: These assess students' practical skills in forensic techniques and procedures.
• Project work: This involves a substantial research project, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.

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Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: These provide students with a comprehensive overview of key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: These allow for in-depth discussion and analysis of specific topics.
• Workshops: These provide practical training in forensic techniques and procedures.
• Laboratory sessions: These provide hands-on experience in forensic science.
• Field trips: These offer students the opportunity to observe real-world forensic investigations.
The teaching staff includes experienced academics and practitioners with expertise in forensic science and criminology. They bring real-world experience to the classroom, providing students with valuable insights into the field.

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Careers:

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

• Forensic scientist: This role involves analyzing evidence and providing expert testimony in criminal investigations.
• Crime scene investigator: This role involves collecting and preserving evidence at crime scenes.
• Forensic pathologist: This role involves examining bodies and determining the cause of death.
• Forensic anthropologist: This role involves identifying skeletal remains and determining the circumstances of death.
• Forensic entomologist: This role involves using insects to assist in criminal investigations.
• Forensic chemist: This role involves analyzing chemical evidence in criminal investigations.
• Forensic toxicologist: This role involves analyzing biological samples for the presence of drugs and poisons.
• Forensic psychologist: This role involves assessing the mental state of suspects and victims.
• Criminal profiler: This role involves analyzing crime scenes and suspect behavior to develop a profile of the perpetrator.
• Police officer: This role involves investigating crimes and enforcing the law.
• Law enforcement officer: This role involves working in various law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF.
• The program offers practical facilities, including crime scene examination rooms, vehicles, and an entomology facility.
• Final-year students may receive training from qualified barristers for mock-court assessments.

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Home Fees

£9,250

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International Fees

£17,000