Forensic Science with Foundation Year – (B.Sc.)

Forensic science is the application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. Recent advances in forensic science, most famously in DNA analysis, have combined to greatly increase the investigating powers of practising forensic scientists, making this a field of increasing importance and relevance.

The main aims of this degree are to:

* give you a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic science
* enable you to carry out investigations and research, and to assess the reliability of your results.

Throughout your three years of study, the focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to operate as a forensic scientist. You will have the opportunity to hone these skills in our 'crime scene' under the guidance of teaching staff who are, in many cases, professional forensic practitioners.
A range of module options, including Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and Advanced Fire and Explosive Investigation, will allow you to develop specialisms within the field.

When you graduate you will be able to:

* demonstrate an understanding of UK legal systems, the role of the forensic scientist within those systems and the special duties and responsibilities of an expert witness
* demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the main theoretical and practical skills of a forensic scientist
* estimate, using appropriate objective-, statistical-, and/or experiential-based tests, the value of your observations and conclusions as evidence in a court of law
* apply this understanding to the design and operation of appropriate analyses and interpret results within a forensic science context
* undertake creative, rigorous and relevant research using appropriate methodologies
* present reports in oral, written and other appropriate formats.

This academically challenging course delves into some important and fascinating areas of science. The real focus of this course though, is on providing you with the practical skills used by professionals within the field - which should make your abilities very attractive to a range of potential employers.

Additional course information
This extended four year option is available to meet the needs of people who wish to study for a Forensic Science degree but do not have the appropriate educational background. During the first year or science foundation year you will have the opportunity to study modules in a range of key areas of biology, chemistry, mathematics and principles underlying scientific investigation as well as specialist areas that relate to your future study programme. Entry qualifications are necessarily very flexible, ranging from a single A Level, relevant experience or previous employment history.

The science foundation year will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to begin studying at degree level, but more than that, it will also introduce you to university life and help you to enjoy the experience of learning within this stimulating and exciting environment. Successful completion of modules earns either 15 or 30 credits towards the total of 120 credits required for progression onto the three year undergraduate degree programme.