Investigate. Analyse. Solve the case.

Are you fascinated by forensic science and its impact on crime-solving? Are you looking for a career that makes a difference? Developing fundamental knowledge and skilled laboratory techniques, you will graduate from this course with the ability to tackle complex scientific problems with confidence, skill and maturity.

If you opt to study a Forensic Science university degree at Northumbria you will develop the essential and fundamental skills required to enter the professional world of forensics. Tasks, including DNA analysis and trace evidence examination, will be matched with teaching from experienced forensic practitioners, developing your scientific knowledge.

This degree is designed to support and inspire you to high achievement and professionalism in your future career. Building on fundamental knowledge and laboratory skills, you will develop into an independent graduate who can tackle complex problems with confidence, skill and maturity.

Why choose Northumbria to study Forensic Science BSc?

• Forensic Science at Northumbria is ranked 4th in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024, rising 4 places since last year.  

• Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences accreditation means the course is always up-to-date and relevant.

• Forensic Science at Northumbria is ranked top 15 in the UK for Teaching Quality & Student Experience (Guardian University League Table, 2024)

How will I learn on this BSc Forensic Science course?

The early stages of the course are designed to give you a solid theoretical and practical grounding in the key science areas applicable to the degree. This foundation is built on in subsequent years as you develop natural curiosity and critical thinking through experiments and greater independent learning and thought.

You will develop critical thinking skills and the ability to present clearly supported/evidenced opinions as you progress through the course. The problem-based approach to teaching establishes these skills at an early stage and culminates in the final year project in your chosen specialism.

• See all the Modules for this Forensic Science course

Who will teach me during my degree?

Our teaching team are active researchers who routinely incorporate their expertise and enthusiasm into their teaching. Many of the staff have worked in forensic science laboratories and have been involved in high profile cases such as the Suffolk Strangler and the murder of Joanna Yeates. Their areas of research include toxicology, the analysis of fibres and their transfer and persistence, and the analysis of ancient DNA.

Academic staff include former forensic biologists, forensic toxicologists and trace evidence experts. They continue to maintain close links with the industry including the police and act as consultants in cases of major crime. Many lecturers are well-established within professional forensic science societies and organisations, which directly inform policy and practices within the field.

Where will I study during my time at Northumbria?

Northumbria University has invested heavily in an impressive suite of analytical equipment allowing you to gain first-hand experience of the techniques used in operational laboratories. You will have access to a dedicated crime scene house to enable you to examine simulated crime scenes. You can also access Return to Scene (R2S) software which provides a 360 degree interactive scan of a crime scene allowing you to perform further analysis in detail.

We use a range of technologies to enhance your learning, with tools including web-based self-guided exercises, online tests with feedback, and electronic discussion boards. These tools support and extend the material that is delivered during lectures

How does this BSc Forensic Science course prepare me for my future career?

We offer an innovative approach to work-based learning. The curriculum has been designed for the development of specific subject knowledge and practical skills in forensic science while providing opportunities for personal and professional development. The valuable transferable skills that you will gain in these modules include critical thinking, effective group work, data mining through use of electronic and classical sources of information, record-keeping, problem solving, independent learning, communication of ideas to various audiences and project management.

This course also provides the opportunity for placements, with some opportunities arising at companies like AzoNobel, P&G, ChemTech Environmental, Sanofi Aventis, National Crime Agency and the Ministry of Justice. There is also opportunities to study abroad.

Our current alumni are working in roles within the police, forensic science laboratories and analytical chemistry laboratories, as well as in further postgraduate studies.