BSc (Hons)
Forensic Science
(with foundation year)*

• Includes a foundation year to prepare you for further years of study by building on your fundamental science knowledge and academic study skills
• Highly specialised facilities including a dedicated crime scene investigation house, located right on the campus, and the first, and only, licensed body farm in Wales for taphonomic study and research
• Highly experienced, research and case active staff delivering hands-on practical session with modern laboratory equipment
• Opportunities to attend a number of course-related trips and events including conferences in forensic science and eligibility for Student Membership of The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (additional costs apply)
• Inclusive and supportive teaching with tutorial support available through the medium of Welsh
• Established partnerships with a number of industries in the areas of forensic, chemical, analytical and materials science including collaboration with North Wales Police on research projects in forensic investigation
• *1st in Wales for assessment and feedback & student voice (WGU analysis of unpublished NSS data 2018) with a focus on work-related assessment activities such as mock courtrooms and crime investigation scenarios

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 (Foundation Year)

The foundation year will introduce you to a range of scientific concepts and methods which underpin biological sciences.  You’ll gain a thorough training in laboratory skills and will develop your analytical and mathematical skills.   Students will be encouraged to develop their own abilities in science, with a basic bank of knowledge across the main scientific areas.

Modules

• Science & the Environment
• Laboratory and Field Skills
• Introduction to Experimental Design and Mathematical Analysis
• Introduction to Science
• The Skills You Need
• Contextual Studies

Year 2 (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 3 (Level 5)

Builds on and expands your portfolio of study, introducing further strategies of crime scene investigation, skills in advanced instrumental analysis and contemporary knowledge in forensic biology. 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 4 (Level 6)

The final year leads students into specific areas in forensic science, including taphonomy, drugs and toxicology, and cross-examination 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

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

BSc (Hons) Forensic Science (four years including foundation year)

UCAS Code: 7F28

Our general requirement for the foundation year is 48 UCAS tariff points but all applications are considered individually and we consider work experience, vocational training/qualifications, as well as motivation and potential to succeed.

Part-time applicants should apply using this form.

If you have studied in another European country, please check the Entry Requirements for your qualification.

International Students - BSc (Hons) Forensic Science (four years including foundation year)

If you are an international student please visit the countries page and select your country to see the relevant academic and English language entry requirements.

A broad range of assessment methods are used; these include task-based exercises, crime scene and courtroom scenarios, oral and poster presentations, essays and laboratory reports, and written exams. Each module is assessed by a variety of methods, enabling students to display their full potential. A project dissertation will form one of the final parts of your assessment.

Teaching and learning

Wrexham Glyndŵr University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, student-led seminars and guided research.

Independent learning is an important aspect of all modules, as it enables students to develop both their subject specific and key skills. Independent learning is promoted through guided study or feedbacks given to students.

The Careers & Zone at Wrexham Glyndŵr University is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

A scientific qualification with transferable skills (i.e. research, report writing, critical thinking, problem solving communication, team working, numeracy and mathematical skills and decision making) can open-up career opportunities in many fields.

For example:

• Scenes of Crimes Officer (SOCO)
• Scientific Support
• Laboratory analysis
• Police force
• Teaching
• Public sector
• Armed forces
• Customs
• Insurance

Our graduates have a good record of employment, forging successful careers in police forces, school/colleges, analytical/chemical companies or studying postgraduate courses across the country and internationally.

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s tuition fees for 2019/20 for a full-time undergraduate degree course are £9000 per year.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the FAQs section of those pages. 

You can see the full programme specification here.