Kingston University London - Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

Kingston University London

Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

How is scientific evidence gathered from a crime scene? How is it analysed and used in investigation? How is it interpreted and presented in court?

This course prepares you for a career as a forensic scientist. Case studies, evidence interpretation, fieldwork and laboratory training cover all aspects of investigating criminal offences. These include crime scene processing, forensic archaeology, drugs, toxicology, DNA profiling, body fluids, entomology, fibres, fire investigation and ballistics.

You'll also have an introduction to criminal law, which includes cross-examination in a Crown Court setting.

Specialist topics include blood pattern analysis (BPA), gunshot residue detection, counterfeits and forgeries, and the analysis of trace evidence. In addition, this course also provides additional industry recognised certificates in BPA, forensic toxicology and DNA profiling at no extra cost.

Reasons to choose Kingston University

  • The three-year, full-time course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS) for the component standards in Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence; Laboratory Analysis; and Crime Scene Investigation. When you graduate, you'll be eligible to apply to be an Associate of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. The four-year, full-time including a foundation year route is not accredited.
  • We have received four commendations from the CSFS for our cutting-edge forensic technology and the innovative student training programmes.
  • Kingston is ranked No.9 in the UK for Forensic Science (Complete University Guide 2023).

Entry Requirements

  • UCAS tariff points:

     

    112-128 for BSc (Hons); 32 for BSc (Hons) including foundation year from Level 3 qualifications.
  • A-levels to include Biology or Chemistry at a grade C or above; two science A-levels are desirable; General Studies not accepted.
  • Alternatively, BTEC Extended Diploma in appropriate Science subject with grades DMM.

  • IELTS of 6.0, with no element below 5.5.

Career Prospects

You'll be prepared to work in a range of environments, including forensic laboratories, policing, analytical chemistry laboratories, hospitals and private consultancies.

Career opportunitie4s after completing Forensic Science BSc (Hons)


  • Criminal lawyer.
  • Forensic scientist.
  • Forensic analyst.
  • Police officer.
  • Forensic investigator.
  • Forensic science professor.
  • Forensics manager.
  • Forensic specialist


Course Details

Year 1 offers a broad understanding of the major branches of biology and biochemistry. You will develop key laboratory skills, and learn to give detailed scientific explanations for the theory and practices used in modern forensic science. The Introduction to Forensic Science module gives an overview of types of forensic evidence, such as skeletal remains, forensic entomology, drugs, toxicology, GSR (gun shot residue), DNA analysis, crime scene investigation and fraudulent document analysis. IT, numeracy and study skills will be taught as part of these modules. And 

Year 2 introduces specialist topics in forensic science. These include DNA and human identification, advanced crime-scene analysis, counterfeits and forgeries and the application of analytical techniques to the analysis of trace evidence such as fire, fibres, glass and fingerprints. You will also be introduced to criminal law and receive expert witness training. This will culminate in the cross examination of expert witness testimony and opinion in a mock courtroom setting at Kingston Crown Court.

Year 1

Genes, Cells and Tissues
The Biochemical Foundations of Life
Scientific and Laboratory Skills
Introduction to Forensic Science

Year 2

Core Modules:
Research Methods and Topics in Forensic Biology
Crime Scene, Evidence and Law
Analytical Science
Policing and Punishment
Optional Modules:
Counterfeits, Fakes and Forgeries

Year 3

Core Modules:
Biological Evidence - Advanced Techniques
Forensic Chemistry and Trace Analysis
Project (Bioscience)
Optional Modules:
Project
Forensic Archaeology
Advanced Analytical Science
Global Terrorism and Transnational Crime

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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