Forensic Science (Extended), BSc Hons

Program Overview

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Forensic Science (Extended), BSc Hons

Overview

Our extended degree in forensic science includes a foundation year. Gain the skills to become a forensic scientist or work in criminal justice.

Course Details

• Mode: Full-time, Sandwich
• Location: Medway Campus
• Duration: 4 years
• UCAS code: F413 M BSc/FS(E)

What You Will Study

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)
• 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)
• Choose 15 credits from:
  • Science Internship Course (15 credits)
  • Personal and Professional Development (15 credits)
• Choose 60 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)

Year 4 (Sandwich)

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

Entry Requirements

UK Citizens and Permanent Residents

• 64 UCAS Tariff points, including one of the following STEM subjects:
  • A Level: Further Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Electronics, Environmental Science, Geology, Science and Economics.
  • BTEC National: in relevant STEM subject
  • A Level and BTEC National: including one of the following STEM subject
  • International Baccalaureate: 24 points overall including Higher Level Science.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma: in one of the following STEM subject
  • 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.
• For detailed information on the academic and English language requirements, please find your country in our directory.

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

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

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?

• 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.

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 it 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 (Extended), BSc Hons

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Degree Overview:

This four-year program is identical to the three-year Forensic Science BSc Hons, but includes a foundation year with lower entry requirements. It offers a unique opportunity to explore practical forensic skills in a purpose-built crime scene facility, including a vehicle examination garage and modern lab spaces. Students will engage in practical crime scenes and mass disaster scenarios, including Disaster Victim Identification in a mock mortuary. The program is designed to provide a head-start for a future career in forensic science and criminal justice, as well as roles as a professional scientist.

• Introductory Practical Science (30 credits): This module provides practical experience in scientific techniques and methodologies.
• Foundation Mathematics (15 credits): This module covers essential mathematical concepts and skills relevant to science.
• Learning Skills for Science (15 credits): This module develops essential academic and study skills for success in science.

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Year 1:

• Biochemistry 1 (15 credits): This module explores the fundamental principles of biochemistry.
• Biochemistry 2 (15 credits): This module delves deeper into biochemical processes and their applications.
• Fundamentals of Biology and Physiology (30 credits): This module covers the fundamental principles of biology and human physiology.
• Basic Chemistry for Life Science (15 credits): This module focuses on chemical principles relevant to biological systems.
• Introduction to Forensic Science (15 credits): This module introduces the field of forensic science, its history, and key concepts.
• Practical and Academic Skills (30 credits): This module develops practical and academic skills essential for forensic science.

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Year 2:

• Metabolism and Disease (15 credits): This module explores the relationship between metabolism and disease.
• Research and Professional Skills (15 credits): This module develops research and professional skills relevant to forensic science.
• Intermediate Forensic Science (30 credits): This module builds upon the introductory forensic science module, covering advanced concepts and techniques.
• Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): This module introduces various instrumental techniques used in forensic analysis.
• Skills in Crime Scene Examination, Evidence Recovery and Law (15 credits): This module provides practical training in crime scene examination, evidence recovery, and legal aspects of forensic science.
• Genetics (15 credits): This module covers the principles of genetics and its applications in forensic science.
• Forensic Geoscience (15 credits): This module explores the role of geoscience in forensic investigations.

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Year 3:

• Project (Chemical Sciences) (30 credits): This module involves a substantial research project in a chemical science area.
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Science (15 credits): This module covers advanced topics in forensic science, including specialized areas.
• Science Internship Course (15 credits): This module provides an opportunity for students to gain practical experience in a science-related internship.
• Personal and Professional Development (15 credits): This module focuses on personal and professional development skills relevant to a career in forensic science.
• Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (15 credits): This module explores the application of anthropology and archaeology in forensic investigations.
• Chemometrics and Informatics (15 credits): This module covers the use of statistical and computational methods in forensic analysis.
• Advanced Instrumental Analysis (15 credits): This module delves deeper into advanced instrumental techniques used in forensic analysis.
• Forensic Identification and Investigation (15 credits): This module focuses on forensic identification techniques and investigative methods.
• Food Crime (15 credits): This module explores the field of food crime and its forensic aspects.
• Digital Forensics for Forensic Science (15 credits): This module introduces the principles and techniques of digital forensics.
• Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology (15 credits): This module covers advanced topics in molecular biology relevant to forensic science.
• Advanced and Clinical Immunology (15 credits): This module explores advanced concepts and applications of immunology in forensic science.
• Medical Biochemistry (15 credits): This module explores the principles of medical biochemistry and its applications in forensic science.

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Year 4 (Sandwich Year):

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

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a combination of assessment methods, including:

• Coursework: Assignments, reports, and presentations assess students' ability to apply knowledge and skills to practical scenarios.
• Practical Assessments: Practical exercises and simulations assess students' proficiency in forensic techniques and procedures.
• Project: The final year project requires students to conduct independent research and present their findings.

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Teaching:

• Lectures: Lectures provide a foundation in theoretical concepts and principles.
• Seminars: Seminars offer opportunities for interactive discussions and critical analysis of topics.
• Workshops: Workshops provide hands-on training in practical skills and techniques.
• Laboratory Sessions: Laboratory sessions provide practical experience in forensic analysis and procedures.
• Field Trips: Field trips offer real-world exposure to crime scenes and forensic investigations.
• Mock Court Assessments: Final-year students receive training from qualified barristers for mock court assessments.

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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: Analyze evidence collected from crime scenes and provide expert testimony in court.
• Crime Scene Investigator: Collect and preserve evidence at crime scenes.
• Forensic Toxicologist: Analyze biological samples for the presence of drugs and poisons.
• Forensic Anthropologist: Analyze skeletal remains to identify victims and determine cause of death.
• Forensic Ballistics Expert: Analyze firearms and ammunition to determine the origin of bullets and other projectiles.
• Forensic Entomologist: Analyze insects found at crime scenes to estimate time of death.
• Forensic Pathologist: Conduct autopsies to determine cause of death and identify the victim.
• Forensic Psychologist: Assess the mental state of suspects and victims.
• Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial crimes and fraud.
• Forensic Engineer: Investigate accidents and failures of structures and products.
• Forensic Linguist: Analyze language patterns to identify suspects and determine the authenticity of documents.

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Other:

• The program is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.
• The lecturing team has a wide range of expertise and field experience working with various police services and emergency services.
• The program is taught at the Medway Campus in Chatham Maritime, Kent.
• Students are provided with lab coats and safety glasses free of charge.
• The cost of field trips may vary depending on the activity.
• Students are encouraged to apply for sandwich placements lasting between 9-12 months.
• The University offers a range of employability services to help students prepare for their careers.
• Students have access to academic skills and study support, including personal tutors and a Learning Skills Coordinator.
• The University provides support for students with disabilities through the STAART (AccessAbility Retention and Transition) course.