Northumbria University Newcastle - Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

Northumbria University Newcastle

Forensic Science BSc (Hons)

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.

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.

Entry Requirements

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Subject Requirements:

Applicants will need Grade B in A-Level Biology, Chemistry or Applied Science, or recognised equivalents.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

Career Prospects

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.

Course Details

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.

Year One

Practical Skills in Forensic Science (Core,20 Credits)
Process and Practices in Forensic Science (Core,20 Credits)
Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry (Core,20 Credits)
Principles of Chemical Structure (Core,20 Credits)
Cell Biology and Genetics (Core,20 Credits)
Scientific Support (Core,20 Credits)
Academic Language Skills for Applied Sciences (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Year Two

Research Methods (Core,20 Credits)
Trace Analysis (Core,20 Credits)
Body Fluids and Blood Pattern Analysis (Core,20 Credits)
Drugs and Toxicology (Core,20 Credits)
Specialist Applications in Criminal Investigation (Core,20 Credits)
DNA Profiling (Core,20 Credits)

Year Three

Study Abroad (Optional,120 Credits)
Academic Exchange Semester Study Abroad (Optional,60 Credits)
Industrial Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)
Year in International Business (This is made up of modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)
Year in International Multidisciplinary Innovation (4 modules studied in Amsterdam (Semester 1) & Newcastle (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

Year Four

Forensic Science Research Project (Core,40 Credits)
Complex Casework (Core,20 Credits)
Contemporary Issues in Forensic Science (Optional,20 Credits)
Advanced Forensic Investigation (Core,20 Credits)
Advanced Analytical Chemistry (Optional,20 Credits)
Forensic Genetics and Anthropology (Optional,20 Credits)
Unilang - Languages for All - Level 6 Placeholder (Optional,20 Credits)

*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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