Forensic Science

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https://www.uwl.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/forensic-science?start=1898&option=33

BSc (Hons) Forensic Science | University of West London

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Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Forensic Science

Full-timePart-time

February 2027September 2027

Fees per year†

£17,250 – International

£10,050 – UK

Duration

Location

Overview

Course details

Our students

Entry and fees

Facilities

Teaching staff

Related courses

How to apply

Register for open day

Start date

Would you like to develop your knowledge of biological and chemical sciences to support crime scene investigations? Technological advances in crime detection are increasing the demand for qualified experts and this course will prepare you to start an exciting career as a sought-after forensic scientist.

From studying this BSc (Hons) Forensic Science degree, you will learn how to investigate a crime scene from the perspective of the forensic crime scene examiner and expert witness.

Using case studies based on actual crimes and under the guidance of tutors who are experts in their fields, you will explore evidence retrieval and processing, how to evaluate information derived from forensic evidence, follow-up procedures, and other core forensic skills.

Our cutting-edge facilities, which include a suite of Crime Scene Rooms and a dedicated Blood Spatter Research Room, will enable you to develop essential investigative and research abilities in a practical context.

These skills combined with hands-on, work-based learning will help you stand out to future employers who often look for applicants with practical experience.

This course has been accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Why study this course?

Our Forensic Science courses are ranked 1st in London and 2nd in England - The Guardian University Guide 2027

2nd London university for Forensic Science - Complete University Guide 2027

Top 20 in the UK for teaching quality - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027

2nd London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2026*

Course accreditation

Previous

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to

see relevant course information:

Study options:

We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.

Full-time

Duration: 3 years

Part-time

Duration: 6 years

With Foundation Year

Duration: 4 years

Start date:

February 2027

September 2027

If your desired start date is not available,

try selecting a different study option.

Play the "Forensic Science at the University of West London" video

Watch the video to find out more about the forensic science courses we offer at UWL.

What you'll study

This forensic science degree gives you the exciting opportunity to develop a valuable specialism. Throughout the course, we emphasise the practical application of what you will learn in your theory modules.

Our advanced facilities and equipment are integral parts of the course. Here you will apply scientific theories and evidence-gathering techniques in practical contexts – both in crime scene rooms and a laboratory.

You will also develop your analytical skills for assessing blood spatter, DNA evidence and the investigative process.

In addition to laboratory work, you will benefit from many innovative teaching methods, including:

simulated case-work activities

crime scene practical situations

court presentation scenarios.

You will also gain essential transferable skills that are attractive to employers in a range of fields. We will help you to:

enhance your problem-solving skills

develop your analytical thinking and an investigative approach

develop lateral thinking skills

adapt to changing requirements

develop the ability to communicate information clearly.

As a student of this course, you will be eligible to apply for student membership of The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, as well as other professional organisations.

Please note, we regularly review our course content to offer relevant, impactful and career-shaping learning. Therefore, the following modules are indicative and subject to change.

Compulsory modules

Introduction to Forensic Science Investigation

This module introduces you to the systems, methods and techniques used in the assessment, examination and gathering of evidence from crime scenes and includes problems related to evidential integrity and continuity. Case studies of actual crimes and practical exercises are used to consolidate the learning experience. The relationship between the practical examinations of crime scenes, critical thinking and decision-making processes are also explored. A number of laboratory sessions are included where the examination and perception of trace evidence is explored.

The Criminal Justice System

The aims of the module are to develop your knowledge and critical understanding of the principles and the logic of adversarial justice and key principles that underpin the system of criminal law in England and Wales.

Additionally, the module will promote an appreciation and understanding of criminal procedure with a focus on the way the criminal justice system operates in practice.

Building Blocks of Life

This module will look at molecules, large and small, that compose the human body. It will also provide the basic scientific concepts that underpin the modules you will study at a higher level on this course. You will not need previous scientific qualifications.

Introduction to Pharmacology

The module is designed to give you a thorough understanding of the fundamental concepts of Pharmacology and demonstrate its relevance to the study of forensic science.

The role of drugs in our lives and how they interact with the cells and tissues of the human body will be investigated. The nervous system will be examined as this is a major site for the action of a large number of drugs. The measurement of drug response in cells or tissues is introduced plus the concepts of toxicology and lifestyle drugs. Theory sessions will be supported by practical work in the laboratory where there is an opportunity to experiment with both qualitative and quantitative methods of drug analysis.

Chemistry Principles and Practice

This module will help you to understand and apply the basic principles of chemistry. You will also gain experience in performing simple experimental procedures in the laboratory and discussing the outcomes. In addition, you will develop basic skills in academic writing and numerical work.

Human Body: Form and Function

This module will introduce the human anatomy. It will give you an insight into the relationship between the structure and function of the individual at the system level and as a fully integrated organism. Each theory session will be supported by a laboratory practical session.

Forensic Photography

The module is designed to introduce you to the fundamental principles and practices of forensic photography. This will include understanding the role of the forensic photographer, including the role of the Crime Scene Investigator and the criminal justice system, in forensic photography to ensure this is conducted effectively; as well as gain understanding of the theoretical principles for using equipment to make photographic portfolios for forensic purposes.

Forensic Investigation of Crime

This module uses case studies of actual crimes and practical exercises in mock crime scenes to elucidate the roles of various practitioners involved in evidence gathering, as well as the possible difficulties encountered during crime investigations. These include problems related to evidential integrity and continuity. Related aspects are also addressed, including the assessment of competency, as well as the issue of communication, for example, public perception and media relations and the examination of investigative and scientific data to correlate its statistical evidential value. In addition, students learn some key Forensic Science techniques and methods in a forensic laboratory environment.

Molecular Biology

On this module you will learn to integrate theoretical concepts and their laboratory application. You will consider the role of nucleic acids in directing protein synthesis and human phenotypic characteristics, as well as genetic fingerprinting and DNA analysis.

Research Methods

You will explore the principles that underpin research design and planning, information retrieval and critical appraisal of scientific evidence, data collection, basic statistical analysis, and how research findings are disseminated. You will also gain experience in drafting a research proposal.

Forensic Pharmacology

On this module, which explores aspects of the molecular activity of the cell and nervous system, you will develop your understanding of how medicines work at the molecular level in the body. We will also look at administration routes and how drugs are distributed in the body.

Analytical Methods

The module aims to explain the importance of safe working practices in laboratories, introduce a variety of analytical methods and theoretical knowledge to laboratory practice. Analytical techniques include chromatography and linked techniques, UV –visible absorption, Infra-red and Raman techniques, Mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and Microscopy. Teaching consists of practical laboratory sessions, working in teams, supported by lectures. Students take part in an extended practical project.

Project Dissertation

Forensic Assessment and Examination Techniques

The material covered in this module provides an opportunity to gain essential knowledge for an understanding of many aspects of Forensic Assessment and Examination Techniques. The module investigates the crime scene from the perspective of the forensic crime scene examiner. Using a series of case studies based on actual crimes evidence retrieval and processing, evaluation of information derived from forensic evidence, and the factors affecting follow-up procedures will be addressed.

Drugs of Abuse

This module will explore the range of drugs of abuse, for example, amphetamines, opiates and cannabinoids. You will examine their modes of ingestion, systemic uptake, detection within body fluids, as well as their psychological action and effects. We will also look at the criminal and legal implications of drugs of abuse.

Developing a Forensic Career

The overall aim of the module is to prepare you for engaging with the graduate job market and developing a career in the field of forensic science/crime scene investigation, or another chosen field.

You will get the opportunity to research career opportunities, have discussions around careers and career planning, enhance communication skills and prepare for job applications.

Case Assessment and Interpretation

The module builds on material covered in the first and second years to provide an understanding of evaluating and interpreting evidence Forensic Science evidence types as well as writing and presenting Expert Witness reports. You will benefit from many casework examples and lessons from experts working in the main Forensic Science providers.

What our students say

2nd London university for student satisfaction - National Student Survey 26*

The course covers such a wide array of topics, such as ballistics and calculating time of death, and looks at so many gritty real life cases – you can't help but get engrossed in the lectures. It has enabled me to determine an area in which I want to specialise and given me the skills, determination and passion to do it.

Stephanie Brandano

Entry requirements

Requirements:

International

104-120 UCAS points required

from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

A Levels at grade B, C and C, or above - please note, for the course that commences in September 2023 (and beyond) at least one Science A-Level (chemistry, biology or physics) will be required

BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction, Merit, Merit

Access to HE Diploma

T Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 - 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

Looking for BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course

Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.

Level 5 (year 2) entry

To directly enter the second year of this course, you will need to show appropriate knowledge and experience. For example, you are an ideal candidate if you have 120 undergraduate credits at Level 4 or a CertHE in a related subject area.

Level 6 (year 3) entry

To directly enter the third year of this course, you need to show appropriate knowledge and experience. For example, you are an ideal candidate if you have 240 undergraduate credits (at Levels 4 and 5), a DipHE, foundation degree or HND in a related subject area.

6.0 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement – a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the four individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents.

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Fees & funding

Funding:

per year†

Please note:

Fees for the 2027/28 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.

Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs over 2 academic years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year, except if otherwise stated.

If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependents and disabled students.

We offer generous bursaries and scholarships to make sure your aspirations are your only limit.

View full details, including conditions and eligibility.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships.

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

Financial support for international students

Forensic science facilities

We have a range of forensic science facilities available to students of the subject at the University of West London. Watch the video to find out more.

Play the video

Crime scene rooms

The crime scene rooms enable students of forensic science to learn from scenarios based on real-life police investigations.

Forensics labs

Working in laboratory settings, our crime scene room and other practical contexts, you will also develop your analytical skills for assessing blood spatter, DNA evidence and the investigative process.

Previous slide Next slide

Your future career

The transferable skills you learn on this forensic science degree will be useful in scientific, legal and business fields. Once you graduate, you could specialise in a particular area of forensic science, such as a crime scene investigator, forensic scientist and toxicologist.

Additionally, past graduates have gone on to build careers and find jobs in the police service, marketing, IT, operations, healthcare and more.

You could also continue your studies, specialising in an area of interest or exploring something new. Explore our postgraduate courses.

One-to-one, life-long careers support

Career-focused modules

Alumni networking events

Professional accreditation

On campus, specialist careers fairs

Hands-on laboratory experience

Learning in a real-world setting

Taught by experienced lecturers

Job roles

reporting officer

crime scene investigator

forensic scientist

fingerprint expert

toxicologist

imaging specialist

DNA analyst

evidence technician

road traffic collision or fire investigator

lab operative

ballistic expert.

Graduate employers

Care International UK

Sublime Science

Cellmark Forensic Services

Hampshire Police

MetFed – Metropolitan Police Federation

Metropolitan Police

Surrey Police

Data Revolution HR

Diamond Pharma

Eurofins

University of West London

UKBC – Biology Competitions.

Dr Christopher Davies Course Leader

I am a forensic toxicologist and analytical chemist holding a BSc (Hons) and an MSc in forensic science. My PhD researched the in vitro metabolism of designer benzodiazepines using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with chemometric interpretation. During my post-doctoral position, I worked on the extraction and detection of drugs in spiked drinks, while other research collaborations have included the detection of analytes in blood samples and green tea extracts. My research interests include the detection of drugs in biological samples, and the chemical composition of fingermarks.

View more

View full profile

Dr Olujimi Aina

Dr Kyprianos Georgiou

Madeleine Ward

How to apply:

You can apply online at any time by clicking on the 'Apply now' button.

Our application form will ask you for some information about what you want to study, your previous qualifications or experience, and how we can contact you.

Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you.

Call us free on 0800 036 8888

Email us at courses@uwl.ac.uk

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Play the "How to apply for university | The University of West London" video

Head to the UCAS website where you can apply using:

our institution code - W05

the UCAS course code (below)

Institution code W05 Institution code

UCAS code currentVariantData.field_p_cv_ucas_code UCAS code

Apply on UCAS.com

You will need our institution code and the UCAS code (above)

The University of West London does not offer Student visa sponsorship for part-time courses.

Our application form will ask you for some information about:

what you want to study

your previous qualifications or experience

your visa (if required)

how we can contact you.

Want to ask us a question first? Our dedicated international students’ team would love to hear from you.

Email international@uwl.ac.uk

International student applications

You can apply to us in two ways:

on the UCAS website you will need our institution code (W05) and the UCAS course code (see top of page)

directly on our website – follow the ‘Apply now’ link

Ask the International Recruitment Team a question

Learn more about international student applications

Find out more about why you should study in London at the Career University

Forensic science

Develop strong practical investigative and research skills on one of our forensic science degrees at the University of West London. Our range of courses will open up a range of fascinating career paths for you.

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BSc (Hons) Criminology with Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminal Investigation

BSc (Hons) Psychology

BSc (Hons) Professional Policing

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Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

†Fees - the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the course. Fees are subject to change. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught international fees are subject to an annual increase.

Teaching - your course will primarily be delivered in-person, however it may include delivery of some activities online, either in real-time or recorded.

Testimonials - quotes are provided by current or former UWL students. These are mostly from the course but quotes from a UWL student on another course may be used if, for example, the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming, however staff and course content may have since changed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route and a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.

Rankings

*The National Student Survey 2026 result is based on the average of all answers by the taught student populations.

**Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and after, 1992.

***PRES - rank out of 53 institutions.

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