Forensic Science with Criminology BSc (Hons)

This course covers topics such as the causes of criminal behaviour and whether criminals are born or made, as well as the legal aspects of forensic science.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE:


- **RANKINGS: Our Forensic Science courses have been ranked in the Top 15 for Forensic Science and graduate prospects in the Complete University Guide 2026, and in the Top 15 for student voice in the National Student Survey 2025.


- ACCREDITATION: Study on a course fully accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Science, reflecting its link to industry standards, student-centred approach, excellent facilities and focus on employability upon graduation.


- CRIMINAL JUSTICE FOCUS: Your studies will be underpinned by a strong focus on the criminal justice system and the legal aspects of forensic science. You’ll explore issues such as expert testimony and evidence, miscarriages of justice, the court process and the roles of the judge, jury and witnesses.


- FACILITIES: Youll have access to our specialist Crime Scene House with seven domestic and commercial crime scenes, we also have cars for mock crime scenes, and crown courts for presenting evidence. Our Crime Scene House also features a blood pattern analysis room. A Bioscience Superlab is opening in 2025, which will give students the chance to study in an innovative, inspiring and interdisciplinary facility.


- SCIENTIFIC EXPERIENCE: Hone your scientific skills in our forensic science laboratories. These include an osteology lab for skeletal study, a wet forensic lab, dark room for specialised light searching and photography, an entomology lab for insect investigation, and forensic imaging facilities.


- EXPERT TEACHING: Youll be taught by active researchers who have many years of commercial forensic experience. Guest speakers, such as criminal justice professionals, judges and lawyers, will also share their remarkable experiences with you.


- TAILORED TO YOU: There are plenty of opportunities to tailor your studies to match your personal interests and career aspirations through our wide selection of optional modules.


WHAT YOULL COVER:


• First year modules will introduce you to key skills as well as the principles of forensic science. A range of modules at stages years two and three include trace interpretation, miscarriages of justice, and policing and society, with options to explore drug of abuse, anthropology or victimology among others. For your final-year research project, you will have the chance to focus on a specialist theme of your choice. Youll have the opportunity to apply for a year-long placement to help develop the skills employers look for.



HOW YOURE ASSESSED:


• You’ll be assessed through a range of mediums, including formal witness statements and expert testimony, as well as essays, laboratory reports, case studies, portfolios, and presentations.



YOUR CAREER:


• Our course gives you a solid foundation for success in a challenging and pioneering profession - you could follow in the footsteps of our many successful graduates and work within the criminal justice system, the police force, the prison service or forensic services. You could also pursue careers in broader areas such as insurance companies, law firms, pharmaceutical companies or private laboratories. The course equips you with the skills needed to take your studies to a higher level too as you could go on to study for an MSc, MPhil or PhD.



STUDY OPTIONS:


• This course is available with a Foundation Year option.



• This course is available with an Industrial Placement Year.

We're a Top 10 UK University* in the heart of England, with great transport links to London and the rest of the UK.

Ranked 2nd in the UK for employability and course quality*, the University of Derby offers expert, industry-relevant teaching, state-of-the-art study spaces, award-winning accommodation, and a welcoming, inclusive community.

(*Uni Compare 2026)