Forensic Science BSc

Program Overview

---

The Forensic Science BSc (Hons) program at De Montfort University provides a comprehensive education in the science behind evidence analysis and presentation. Accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the program equips students with practical skills and knowledge through mock crime scenes, forensic laboratories, and industry collaborations. Graduates are prepared for careers in crime scene investigation, forensic evidence analysis, and various other forensic science fields.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

---

Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

---

Overview:

This accredited course explores the science behind uncovering, examining, analyzing, and presenting evidence within a legal framework. Students develop practical skills and experience through mock crime scenes, forensic laboratories, and guest lectures from practitioners. The program aims to equip graduates for crime scene investigation or forensic evidence analysis.

---

Objectives:

• Provide students with a strong foundation in both chemistry and biology relevant to forensic science.
• Equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to analyze and interpret forensic evidence.
• Develop students' professional skills, including report writing, presentation skills, and teamwork.
• Prepare students for a variety of careers within the forensic science field.

---

Program Description:

The Forensic Science BSc (Hons) program at De Montfort University is a three-year full-time program with an optional fourth year placement year. The program is professionally accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, ensuring its high quality and relevance to current practices and standards.

---

Key Features:

• Block teaching approach for a supportive and community-oriented learning environment.
• Extensive practical experience through dedicated facilities like the crime scene house, crime studio, and forensic science laboratories.
• Strong industry links providing opportunities for placement and application of skills in real-world scenarios.
• Global experience opportunities through DMU Global program, with previous trips focused on human rights abuses, judicial processes, and refugee support.
• Graduates employed by leading organizations like Eurofins, Cellmark Forensics, Key Forensic Services, GlaxoSmithKline, Reckitt Benckiser, 3M, and the National Crime Agency.

---

Outline:

---

First Year:

• Semester 1:
• Forensic, Professional and Quantitative Skills
• Foundations of Biology for Forensic Science
• Semester 2:
• Essentials of Forensic Investigations
• Foundations of Chemistry for Forensic Science

---

Second Year:

• Semester 1:
• Analytical Forensic Chemistry
• Issues in Criminal Justice
• Semester 2:
• Bodies, Tissues and Fluids
• 'Operation Vestigium'- Drugs and Trace Evidence

---

Third Year:

• Semester 1:
• Forensic Case Studies
• ‘Operation Ignis’ – A Fire and Toxicology based investigation
• Semester 2:
• Research Project and Professional Skills

---

Assessment:

Assessments include coursework, practical reports, exams, phase tests, and written and oral presentations.

---

Teaching:

• Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions, and workshops.
• Contact hours consist of approximately 3 hours of tutorials per week, 10 hours of practical classes/workshops/seminars per week, and 9 hours of lectures per week.
• Additional independent study is expected, requiring around 20 hours per week.
• Specialist academics with extensive experience in academic and industrial settings.

---

Careers:

---

Potential Career Paths:

• Crime scene investigator
• Forensic scientist
• Forensic laboratory technician
• Forensic science researcher
• Forensic science educator
• Forensic science consultant

---

Opportunities:

• Forensic science laboratories
• Police forces
• Government agencies
• Private companies
• Academia

---

Graduate Outcomes:

DMU Forensic Science graduates are employed by leading organizations like Eurofins, Cellmark Forensics, Key Forensic Services, GlaxoSmithKline, Reckitt Benckiser, 3M, and the National Crime Agency.

---

Other:

• The program utilizes block teaching for a supportive and focused learning experience.
• Students have access to dedicated facilities like the crime scene house, crime studio, and forensic science laboratories for practical experience.
• The program welcomes international students and offers support for English language development.
• Students have opportunities to participate in the DMU Global program for international experience.

---

2024/25 tuition fees for UK students: £9,250 2024/25 tuition fees for international students: £16,250 You may incur additional costs for this programme, including the cost of travelling to and from project/placement locations.