Forensic Science – (B.Sc.)

Contents

Aims

The focus of the interdisciplinary, chemistry-based Chemistry with Pharmaceutical and Forensic Science (CPFS) course is on developing your core skills in chemistry and chemical analysis and their applications in forensic casework.

The CPFS course covers the full range of core subjects in chemistry together with specialist training targeting the pharmaceutical and forensic professions. The foundations of forensic examination and of drug analysis are established in the first year together with the underlying physical, structural, synthetic and analytical principles underpinning them. In the second and third years of the course, you develop your knowledge in these core sciences, and an appreciation of the requirements, scope and limitations of forensic investigation of a wide range of physical evidence types. In the Master’s course you are further able to develop your research skills in the chemical and forensic sciences, with specialist modules in chemical synthesis and analysis of materials.

The focus of the bioscience-based Forensic and Medical Sciences (FMS) course is on developing your core skills in the biological sciences, and their application in medical sciences and forensic casework. The foundations of forensic and crime scene examination are established in the first year together with an understanding of the normal structure and function of cells, tissues, organs and organisms, and you are introduced to the techniques and procedures available for their investigation. In the second year the emphasis in the biosciences shifts towards disease processes, and limitations of forensic investigation of a wide range of physical evidence types. The third year allows you to specialise in several of these topics, and to develop your professional skills through a forensic research dissertation on a topic of your choice.

In addition to the pursuit of core sciences, forensic investigation in the areas of anthropology and topics relating to archaeology and the degradation of human remains and physical materials are common options in the third year of the CPFS and FMS courses where you will extend your appreciation of core scientific issues, and develop your skills in forensic interpretation. Expert practitioners from the Forensic Science Service and the scientific support laboratories of the West Yorkshire Police Force will contribute to the course from time to time. Both courses also integrate a practical forensic research project in the third year, and an opportunity for you to investigate a particular forensic theme via an extensive practical research project lasting the whole of the second semester in the Master’s year.

The Forensic Science (FS) course provides a chemistry-based pathway. The FS course is distinguished from the CPFS and FMS courses in providing greater opportunity for development of investigative skills and interpretation of forensic evidence, and pursuit of modules in law. You are also able to develop your research and professional skills through a dissertation on a forensic topic of your choice. The FS course also integrates a practical research project on a forensic topic of your own choice in the third year.

Career Outcome

Our graduate employment record is excellent, with 84.5% of 2009 graduates in employment or further study just six months after graduating.

There are wide-ranging career opportunities, including the health service, the forensic science or police scientific support laboratories, the Health and Safety Executive, and the public analysts’ laboratories, as well as opportunities in the chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, food, drink and electronics industries. The scientific skills, knowledge and methods you will acquire during the course can also be a useful basis for a career in teaching; technical and scientific writing; drug registration, patenting or monitoring; and medical publishing or other information services.

Both BSc and MChem/MSci qualification can lead to opportunities for research and higher degrees.

Placements Available?

The three- and four-year BSc patterns have identical academic content. Students who choose the four-year option spend a year away from the University in a laboratory environment as the paid employee of an approved organisation. This experience enables you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, learn about work practices, and improve your career prospects. On successful completion of your placement, you will qualify for the Diploma of Industrial Studies that enhances your qualifications.