From sharp force trauma to spectra, from bones to bugs... Wrexham Glyndŵr University will prepare you for an exciting career in science.

This degree has been designed to provide a detailed knowledge of numerous scientific disciplines and how they can be applied to investigate a wide range of crimes. The programme has been tailored to train students to become competent and skilled scientists, able to conduct the analysis of materials, interpret complex results, and present their evidence as expert witnesses.

*Our forensic and archaeological sciences subject area is top in Wales for overall satisfaction and first in Wales and 6th in the UK for teaching, (WGU analysis of unpublished NSS 2019 data).

Students will:

• be trained in a wide variety of fields, including crime scene investigation, biology and chemistry
• use our dedicated laboratories, crime scene house, and taphonomic facility (body farm) to test and hone your scientific skills
• benefit from our long-term collaborations with partners including North Wales Police, companies specialising in areas such as search dog training and the analysis of human remains, as well as analytical companies that provide students with opportunities to perform frontier research and publish papers

The course covers the three key elements of forensic science, namely: the search and recovery of evidence; biological (including DNA), chemical and physical analysis; and the presentation of evidence in court. The course is highly practical which equips students with all the skills needed for career development.

 YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)

 Introduces a broad range of scientific knowledge and skills covering mathematics, statistics, biology and chemistry etc. Meanwhile, the students are also educated with fundamentals in forensic science, criminal justice and crime scene investigation. Intensive practice in both lab and crime scene house is an important part of this year.

 MODULES

• Cell Biology
• Introduction to Chemistry
• Laboratory Chemical Analysis
• Maths and Statistics for Science
• Forensic Evidence and Criminal Justice
• Crime Scene Investigation

 YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)

 Builds on and expands your portfolio of study, introducing skills in advanced instrumental analysis and contemporary knowledge in forensic biology and human identification workshops. Both hands-on experience and research methodology will be emphasised.

 MODULES

• Forensic Biology
• Analytical Methods
• Anatomy, Pathology and the Forensic Examination of Human Remains
• Instrumental Analysis
• Laboratory Instrumental Analysis
• Research Methods: Theory and Practice

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)

 The final year leads students into specific areas of forensic science, including taphonomy (decomposition), drugs and toxicology, and presentation of evidence in court etc.  You will carry out a research project in a field of your choice.

 MODULES

• Forensic Taphonomy
• Drugs and Toxicology
• Science in Court
• Forensic Investigation of Mass Fatalities
• Research Project