UWE Bristol - BSc Hons Forensic Science

UWE Bristol

BSc Hons Forensic Science

Accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, this course gives you a compelling mix of academic knowledge, practical experience and advanced skills to fast-track your career.

Why study forensic science?


Forensic scientists apply scientific analysis to criminal and civil investigations, producing evidence that's admissible in a court of law.

It's a fascinating and rigorous scientific discipline that will build your knowledge of biology and chemistry, as well as your advanced problem-solving, data interpretation and communication skills.

Covering crime scenes, laboratory and courtroom work, forensic science offers a springboard into rewarding careers in the justice system and beyond.    

Why UWE Bristol?

BSc(Hons) Forensic Science is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. It was designed with input from professional forensic scientists to give you a deep understanding of the way science is used to investigate crime.

With a strong emphasis on problem-solving and communicating scientific findings, you'll study everything from crime scene investigation and laboratory analysis, to interpreting, evaluating and presenting evidence.

Learn to use forensic instruments in our industry-standard laboratories.

Apply your scientific knowledge at simulated crime scenes in our specially-adapted Crime Scene House. Present evidence and respond to questions in our mock courtroom.

Guest lectures from inspirational professionals will give you insights into specialist topics and you can tailor the degree to suit your specific interests.

You'll be encouraged to do summer internships and placements, and you can apply to spend a year studying abroad.

Where can it take me?

The knowledge and skills you'll gain will open up lots of career paths.

You could work with forensic science providers or the Police, or as a laboratory analyst. Many students do postgraduate study, particularly in toxicology, forensic anthropology, osteology and archaeology.

Your analytical approach to problem-solving will be just as valued in other sectors, like teaching or the legal profession. 

Entry Requirements

  • Tariff points: 120
  • GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in English Language or Literature, Mathematics and Double Science, or equivalent. We do not accept Level 2 Key Skills, Functional Skills or Certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy as alternatives to GCSEs.
  • English Language Requirement: International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component 
  • A-level subjects: Grade B in Biology or Chemistry.

Career Prospects

Forensic science graduates go into varied types of laboratory work, and a significant number become science teachers.

The scientific problem solving, numerical and communication skills you'll gain will also put you in a strong position for working in other sectors, from financial services to law. 

Graduates have gone onto work with some of the country's largest forensic science providers, including LGC Forensics, Orchid Cellmark and Key Forensics, as well as in a range of roles with the Police.

Some graduates take their study of law further and complete a one-year law conversion course to become a barrister.

Course Details

Year 1

Chemistry in Context
Human Biological Systems
Scientific Investigation of Crime
Scientific Skills.

Year 2

Forensic Analysis
Law and Expert Evidence
Drugs and Toxicology.

One combination of modules from:
Forensic Biology and Molecular Genetics
Instrumental Analytical Science and Molecular Genetics
Instrumental Analytical Science and Medicinal Chemistry.

Final Year

Forensic Project.

One combination of modules from:
Advanced Analytical Science; and Forensic Analysis and Toxicology
Forensic Biology and Genetics; and Genomic Technologies.

One optional module from:
Pathophysiology
Pharmacology and Toxicology
Forensic Psychology
Professional Practices in Applied Science

One optional module from:
Neuropharmacology
Science Communication
Environmental Forensics.

*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.

Are you ready to start building your future?

Contact our admission counseller and get a free consultation.