Forensic science degrees
If you're intrigued by the application of scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems, then this could be the perfect field for you
Forensic science plays a critical role in helping police officers solve crimes. These scientists collect, preserve, and analyse scientific evidence to support police investigations. This is especially crucial as the accuracy and reliability of other methods like eyewitness accounts and confessions often depend on the coroboration of forensics.
As financial and cybercrime cases continue to rise, the significance of forensic science in the UK justice system is likely to become even more important.
'Where forensic science differs from a general science degree is how the core scientific knowledge is applied in problem solving in scenarios such as crime investigation, and also the need to understand the requirements of the legal framework,' explains Dr Clive Steele, course leader of BSc Forensics at London South Bank University (LSBU).
'A forensic science degree essentially teaches students how to apply scientific thinking to real-world scenarios, and how to pull together information from different sources to draw conclusions, both of which are valuable skills for broader employability,' he adds.
Which are the best universities for forensic science?
Many universities in the UK offer forensic science degrees, but it's important to choose a programme that provides the necessary skills and knowledge to work as a forensic scientist. Choosing a course that is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS) is an important consideration.
'Accreditation demonstrates that the course content has been independently assessed by forensic science practitioners and contains the essential elements that employers are looking for in key areas including:
- crime scene investigation
- laboratory analysis and interpretation
- evaluation and presentation of evidence.
It also demonstrates that students on such programmes will have a strong practical understanding of these areas in addition to a theoretical background,' says Dr Steele.
Accredited institutions include:
- Anglia Ruskin University
- De Montfort University
- Liverpool John Moores University
- London Southbank University
- Keele University
- Northumbria University
- Nottingham Trent University
- Robert Gordon University
- Staffordshire University
- Teesside University
- The University of the West of England
- University of Central Lancashire
- University of Derby
- University of Lincoln
- University of Kent
- University of South Wales
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Wolverhampton.
This is not an exhaustive list. To see if your preferred institution is accredited see the CSFS accredited course search.
Do I need to do a forensic science degree?
To become a forensic scientist, you need to have at least an undergraduate degree. Forensic science is often studied alongside other closely related subjects such as chemistry, computer science, criminology, medical science, and psychology.
If you are interested in pursuing a BSc in Forensic Science at Northumbria University Newcastle, you’ll need 112 UCAS points, with a grade B in A-level biology, chemistry or applied science, or recognised equivalents. The degree takes three years to complete, but you can choose a four-year sandwich option, which includes a placement or a period studying abroad.
The core modules include:
- practical skills in forensic science
- cell biology and genetics
- trace analysis
- body fluids and blood pattern analysis
- DNA profiling
- complex casework
- advanced forensic investigation.
Tuition fees for UK students in 2024/25 are £9,250.
The BSc in Forensic Sciences at LSBU takes three years to complete. You'll need 112 UCAS points, including maths and English qualifications. If you don't meet these criteria, the institution offers upskilling in these areas at their partner college to help prepare you for degree-level study.
Discover what you can do with a degree in forensic science.
Can I study a postgraduate course in forensic science?
While postgraduate study is not essential, it can enhance your employability and provide a strong foundation in the subject, particularly if your undergraduate degree is in an unrelated field.
'Although many forensic science opportunities advertised are accessible for students with Bachelors degrees, there are others where a more specialised knowledge at a postgraduate level will be beneficial,' explains Dr Steele.
'Undergraduate degrees tend to give broad coverage of a range of disciplines, but areas such as toxicology, anthropology and digital forensics may only be covered in sufficient depth for some roles on postgraduate programmes. For some employers a candidate with a postgraduate degree may be initially employed at a higher grade,' he adds.
On the one-year, full-time MSc Forensic Science at Nottingham Trent University you'll be taught six modules including biometrics and forensic databases, bioarchaeology and advanced topics in forensic science before choosing optional modules of either international environmental crime or analytical toxicology.
Full-time fees for UK students in 2024/25 are £9,700. Learn more about your postgraduate funding options.
To get onto the one-year (two years if studied part-time) MSc Forensic Science at the University of the West of England (UWE) you'll need a minimum of a 2:2 in a related subject. Core modules include crime scene investigation, advanced forensic analysis, interpretation, valuation and presentation of evidence and forensic research projects. For full-time UK students in 2024/25, the course costs £10,250.
Search for postgraduate courses in forensic science.
What are my career options?
The field of forensic science is highly competitive and having a degree alone is not sufficient to secure a job. Work experience is crucial as it provides an opportunity to gain practical knowledge and skills.
'Employers in the forensic science sector typically look for candidates that can demonstrate good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, good communication and the ability to work well under pressure,' says Dr Steele.
'In addition to these more general skills, a knowledge of the regulatory framework around forensic science is increasingly desirable, including an understanding of the role of the Forensic Science Regulator and the quality standards and their application to forensic organisations. For roles like a crime scene investigator, a driving licence may also be essential,' he adds.
You should consider institutions that offer a placement year, where you can work with organisations in your area of interest. Work experience opportunities may be limited for undergraduate students due to the sensitive and legally important nature of casework, but Masters students may have the chance to complete their final dissertation project in environments such as commercial forensic laboratories.
As a forensic science graduate, you have a lot of career options. While many graduates pursue mainstream forensic science positions, you can also find employment in sectors such as science and pharmaceuticals, law enforcement and security, and teacher training and education. Pursuing a PhD and remaining in academia is also an option.
When you study forensic science, you gain a range of transferable skills, including:
- attention to detail
- accuracy
- problem solving
- communication (both verbal and written)
- time management
- methodical thinking
- the ability to follow guidelines and procedures
- working within a team
- independence.
These skills are valuable for a variety of careers within law enforcement, such as criminal justice agencies, police force support work, crime scene investigation, and forensic laboratory analysis, general science analytical laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, the toxicology and analytical chemistry sector, and the insurance industry.
Graduates of the BSc Forensic Sciences at LSBU are now working as:
- crime scene examiner at the Metropolitan and Hertfordshire Police
- chemistry laboratory technician
- digital forensic assistants at the Metropolitan Police
- research officer at the Crick Institute
- pathology laboratory technician
- toxicology analyst at Eurofins.