Program Overview
Bath Spa University's Forensic Science BSc (Hons) equips students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to investigate crime scenes and analyze evidence. The program covers topics from cell biology to cybersecurity, preparing graduates for careers as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, and other related roles in the criminal justice system. Through hands-on lab work, interactive lectures, and potential professional placements, students gain real-world experience and a deep understanding of the scientific principles underlying forensic investigations.
Program Outline
Forensic Science BSc (Hons) - Bath Spa University
Degree Overview:
This Forensic Science degree provides students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to become crime scene investigators. The program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the science behind crime scene investigations, evidence gathering, analysis, interpretation, and presentation to the criminal justice system.
Objectives:
- Understand the science behind crime scene investigations.
- Learn to gather, analyze, and interpret evidence.
- Develop skills in presenting evidence to court.
- Gain a solid understanding of the criminal justice system.
Outline:
Year One (Level 4):
- Forensic Science Techniques: Introduces students to the fundamental techniques used in forensic science.
- Introduction to Biochemistry: Covers the basic principles of biochemistry relevant to forensic science.
- Crime and Disorder in Everyday Life: Explores the nature and causes of crime and disorder in society.
- Criminal Law; case and matter analysis: Provides an introduction to criminal law and its application in forensic investigations.
- Digital Forensics: Introduces students to the principles and techniques of digital forensics.
Year Two (Level 5):
- Research Skills for Forensic Science: Develops students' research skills, preparing them for their final year dissertation.
- Policing; Crime Control and Prevention: Explores the role of policing in crime control and prevention.
- Criminal Justice: Theory, Policy and Practice: Examines the theoretical and practical aspects of the criminal justice system.
- Pharmacology and Toxicology: Covers the principles of pharmacology and toxicology relevant to forensic investigations.
- Forensic Casework and Analysis: Provides practical experience in analyzing crime scene evidence.
- The Psychology of Criminal Investigations: Explores the psychological aspects of criminal investigations.
- Microbial Applications and Biotech: Introduces students to the applications of microbiology and biotechnology in forensic science.
- Professional Placement Year (Optional): Students can choose to undertake a professional placement year between their second and final year, gaining real-world experience in forensic science.
Year Three (Level 6):
- Dissertation Planning for Forensic Science: Guides students in planning and conducting their independent research project.
- Dissertation Publication for Forensic Science: Provides support in preparing and publishing their dissertation.
- Contemporary Topics in Forensic Science: Explores current developments and emerging trends in forensic science.
- Mechanisms of Disease: Covers the mechanisms of disease relevant to forensic investigations.
- Advanced Criminal and Forensic Psychology: Delves deeper into the psychological aspects of criminal behavior and investigations.
- Clinical Biochemistry: Provides an advanced understanding of clinical biochemistry relevant to forensic science.
- Forensic Science Work Placement: Offers further practical experience in forensic science settings.
- Cybersecurity: Introduces students to the principles and practices of cybersecurity.
- Cyber Crime, Law and Ethics: Explores the legal and ethical issues surrounding cybercrime.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a combination of:
- Report writing
- Laboratory reports
- Presentations
- Group work
- In-class tests
- Dissertations
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Workshops
- Practical lab sessions
- Supervised projects
- Case studies
- Guest speakers and lecturers who are experts and practitioners in the field.
Careers:
- Forensic Scientist
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Analytical Chemist
- Forensic Toxicologist
- Forensic Anthropologist
- Forensic Ballistics Expert
- Forensic Pathologist
Other:
- Students have access to well-equipped labs containing modern equipment, including high-precision instrumentation, genetic and cell culture facilities, microscopy, physiological data acquisition systems, and physiology equipment.
- The University Library offers a wealth of learning resources, including books, journals, DVDs, and electronic services.
- The Writing and Learning Centre provides support for academic work, including feedback on written drafts and help with academic writing.
- The Virtual Learning Environment provides online access to learning materials, such as lecture slides, assessment information, discussion boards, and other resources.
- The Careers team runs networking events and advisory workshops, helping students secure work placements, paid part-time jobs, and graduate-level employment.
- Students have free access to thousands of business, design, and tech courses online via LinkedIn Learning.
- The English Language Unit provides support for international students to improve their English skills.
- Student Wellbeing Services are available to support students throughout their studies.
2024 entry Student Annual tuition fee UK full time £9,250 International full time £16,905 Professional Placement Year During the placement year, the fee is reduced to 20% of the full time fee. This applies to UK and EU/International students. UK: £1,850 International: £3,381
