Program Overview

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Archaeology and Forensic Biology BSc (Hons)

Overview

This dynamic combined honours degree blends the intrigue of archaeology with the precision of forensic biology, offering a comprehensive grounding in both fields. You'll explore ancient societies—from Ice Age hunter-gatherers to early modern urban dwellers—while mastering advanced molecular biology techniques like DNA profiling.

Course Details

Level

• Undergraduate

UCAS Code

• FV44

UCAS Points

• 112

Start Date

• Oct 2025, Oct 2026

Duration

• 3 years full-time, up to 7 years part-time

Location

• Exton Park, Chester

UK Fees

• £9,535 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

International Fees

• £14,450 per year for a full-time course* (2025/26)

Course Leader

• Dr Barry Taylor

Course Structure

Year 1 (Level 4)

• Core modules:
  • Science of Life (40 Credits)
  • The Archaeology of Britain and Europe (40 Credits)
  • Forensic Investigations (20 Credits)
• Optional modules:
  • Archaeology Field School (20 Credits)
  • Language Module Options (20 Credits)

Year 2 (Level 5)

• Core modules:
  • Archaeology in Action (40 Credits)
  • Crime Scene to Court (40 Credits)
• Optional modules:
  • Experiential Learning - Natural Sciences (40 Credits)
  • Work Placement - Natural Sciences (40 Credits)
  • Experiential Learning: Professional Practice in Archaeology (40 Credits)
  • Professional work placement/Language module/Term abroad

Year 3 (Level 6)

• Core modules:
  • Investigative Forensics (20 Credits)
  • Forensic Applications (20 Credits)
  • Natural Sciences Dissertation (40 Credits)
  • Advanced Study in British and European Archaeology (20 Credits)
  • Archaeological Heritage and Public Archaeology (20 Credits)
  • Archaeology and the Anthropocene (20 Credits)
  • Archaeology Dissertation (40 Credits)
  • Bioarchaeology (20 Credits)

Entry Requirements

• Home Students:
  • UCAS Points: 112
  • GCE A Level: Typical offer – BCC-BBC Must include A Level Biology or Chemistry
  • BTEC: BTEC Extended Diploma (Applied Science): DMM
  • International Baccalaureate: 26 points, including 5 in HL Biology or Chemistry
  • Irish / Scottish Highers: Irish Highers: H3 H3 H3 H3 H4, including H3 in either Biology, Chemistry Scottish Highers: BBBB including either Biology, Chemistry
  • Access requirements: Access to HE Diploma (Science), to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above
  • T Level: T Level Science - Merit
  • OCR Cambridge Technicals: OCR Extended Diploma (Applied Science): DMM
• International Students:
  • English Language Requirements: IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

Fees and Funding

• Home Students:
  • £9,535 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)
• International Students:
  • £14,450 per year for a full-time course* (2025/26)
• Additional Costs:
  • Books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials
  • Specialist clothing
  • Travel to placements
  • Optional field trips
  • Software
• Bursaries:
  • The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships.

Who You'll Learn From

• Chris Davis: Senior Lecturer
• Dr Barry Taylor: Senior Lecturer

Where You'll Study

• Exton Park, Chester
• Modern learning resources and library
• Fitness facilities
• Student Services
• Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces
• Accommodation
• Catering

Your Future

• Job Prospects:
  • Forensic biology
  • Police officers
  • Analytical scientist
  • Biological researchers
  • Science teachers
  • Crime scene examiners
  • Forensic DNA analyst
• Careers Service:
  • The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences.

Related Courses

• Forensic Biology BSc (Hons)
• Archaeology BSc (Hons)
• Archaeology and History BA (Hons)