BSc (Hons) Forensic Science and Physics

For the Forensic Science element of the course, you will gain an in-depth understanding of forensic science, taught by academics and forensic professionals, as well as gaining valuable lab and crime scene experience, helping you to stay ahead in this fast-moving science. You will be taught in our modern laboratory facilities and have access to equipment and our dedicated Crime Scene House. Your studies will focus on key topics in forensic chemistry, analytical science, forensic biology, and criminalistics science. You will develop your analytical science skills, enabling you to analyze a variety of forensic evidence. This is complemented by an additional emphasis on professional practice and an understanding of the roles of the crime scene investigator and the forensic scientist as expert witnesses in the court. You may be able to study abroad for a semester (depending on subject scheduling) or a year at one of our partner universities.

Year 1

• Forensic Chemistry and Analysis
• Forensic Identification and Investigation
• Mechanics, Gravity, and Relativity
• Nature of matter
• Oscillations and Waves
• Electricity and Magnetism

Year 2

• Forensic Genetics
• Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis
• Criminalistic Methods
• Drugs of Abuse
• Quantum Mechanics
• Optics and Thermodynamics
• Nuclear and Particle Physics
• Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics

Year 3

• Evaluation of evidence, explosives, and arson
• Forensic Science Team Research Project – ISP
• Forensic Toxicology
• Electromagnetism
• Physics Project – ISP

OPTIONAL MODULES

• Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis
• Forensic Geoscience
• Binary Stars and Extrasolar Planets
• Data Analysis and Model Testing
• Particle Physics and Accelerators
• Cosmology
• Life in the Universe
• Quantum Mechanics II
• General Relativity, Black Holes, and Gravitational Waves

Employability:

Our teaching strategy is designed to enable you to become an independent scientist who will have a great deal to offer prospective employers. Our graduates have entered careers in a range of professional forensic science sectors, including DNA profiling to digital forensics, or as analytical scientists and researchers within the broader business sector, such as chemical analytical consultancies, pharmaceuticals, or environmental monitoring. Some of our graduates also undertake postgraduate qualifications such as an MSc, PGCE, or Ph.D. qualification prior to entering employment.

Previous employers

• 2030 Labs LTD
• Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board
• North Yorkshire Police
• Sandwell and Dudley Hospital
• Nottinghamshire Health