Forensic Science with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

Forensic Science with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Course Description

This dynamic four-year course includes a foundation year and is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. It sets high professional standards and provides a comprehensive education in forensic science, including a foundation year to help you build a strong foundation in the subject.

Study Options

• Full-time: 4 years
• UK fee: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International fee: £16,900 per year (2025/26)
• UCAS points: 72 (September 2025 entry)
• UCAS code: F413
• Start date: September
• Location: Kedleston Road, Derby Campus

Course Structure

• Foundation Year
• Year 1
• Year 2
• Optional Placement Year
• Year 3

Core Modules

• Academic and Practical Skills
• Foundation in Forensic Science
• Principles of Cellular Biology
• Principles of Chemistry

Optional Modules

• English
• Mathematics
• Research Methods and Data Handling
• Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Physiology

Expert Teaching

The research expertise of our teaching team includes areas such as entomology, forensic photography, drug analysis, anthropology, taphonomy, fingerprint detection and enhancement techniques, blood pattern analysis, and fire investigations.

Forensic Training Facility

Our custom-built facility offers seven replica domestic and commercial crime scenes, a blood spatter room, and fully panoramic CCTV and audio for live feedback.

Skills at the Cutting Edge

Employers are seeking forensics professionals who are highly analytical. Our course provides a strong grounding in subjects such as analytical chemistry and molecular biology.

Benefit from Our Employer Partnerships

We have strong links with employers, including Derbyshire Constabulary and the East Midlands Scientific Operations Unit (EMSOU), which will inspire and motivate you.

Boost Your Employability with a Placement Year

Take an optional placement year to put your skills into practice in a real-world setting. We'll support you in finding a placement and throughout your time in industry.

Careers

With a Forensic Science degree from Derby, you will have a head start in a challenging and fascinating profession. You could pursue your career in the forensic science sector, criminal justice system, insurance companies, or any industry where a good science degree is invaluable.

Entry Requirements

• UCAS points: 72
• A Level: DDD
• T Level: Pass
• BTEC: MMP
• GCSE: Maths and English are preferred, however, if you don't have these qualifications, you will be able to undertake Maths and English at Level 2 as part of your course of study
• Access to HE: Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 0, Merit: 30, Pass: 15
• English language requirements: IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

Fees and Funding

• UK: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International: £16,900 per year (2025/26)

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

• Laboratory coat and crime scene suit
• Access to specialist software: Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)
• Travel and entrance fees covered for fieldtrips where suitable/possible to examine fire scenes and observe a post-mortem examination
• Optional costs not included in your fees:
  • Forensic toolkit
  • Recommended textbooks or e-books
  • Chartered Society of Forensic Science membership costs

How to Apply

• UK students: Apply through UCAS or directly to the University
• International students: Apply through our online application portal or through one of our trusted local representatives

Discover Uni

• 60% of students say staff value students' views and opinions about the course
• 70% of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well
• 90% of students are in work or doing further study 15 months after the course

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