Forensic Science (with Foundation Year)

Why choose this course?
Ready to take a deep dive into the scientific principles that underpin forensic investigations? Our programme equips you to examine crime scenes, analyse evidence and present results in court as an expert witness. From sharp force trauma to spectra, bones to bugs, get ready to develop your practical skills for an exciting scientific career.

You will:

• Get hands-on practical experience to ensure you develop the skills needed in the industry, using our state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, crime scene house and decomposition research facility.

• Choose from three distinct areas of specialisation in forensic chemistry, forensic biology or postmortem investigation with comprehensive facilities and equipment dedicated to each field.

• Have the chance to study bilingually as we embed Welsh language skills across the program, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

• Benefit from our excellent connections with local and international organisations, including specialist laboratories, local police forces and experts in areas such as drone technology and disaster victim identification.

• Receive teaching and support from a team of highly qualified staff with a range of expertise and interests.

• Have the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities to enhance your main study programme such as guest lectures, short courses, local excursions, and residential trips.

• Build academic confidence with our Foundation Year for those returning to study or wanting more time and support to develop their scientific knowledge.

Key Course Features:

• This course allows students to pursue their strengths and interests with key pathways in forensic chemistry, forensic biology and postmortem investigation.

• Take advantage of our Newly renovated science laboratories with state-of-the-art AV systems and teaching equipment allowing hands-on practical experience of modern laboratory equipment including a broad range of analytical instruments.

• You will have access to specialist facilities such as crime scene buildings and vehicles allowing the replication of a range of scenarios. We also have the first and only Decomposition Research Facility in Wales, an osteology work room with access to both human and animal remains, a purpose-built court room for mock trials and the FAST 3D Lab.

• Work-related learning opportunities for all students as well as a dedicated placement year for students electing this pathway as well as opportunities to collaborate and network with researchers and practitioners from a variety of specialisms.

• Small teaching groups with low student to staff ratio supporting individualised support with studies, including the opportunity to begin learning or progress current Welsh Language skills. This includes carefully curated Welsh content during each academic year and the option for tutorials in Welsh.

• Opportunities to join several professional bodies as a student member, including the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the Royal Society of Biology, the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute for Archaeologists.

What you will study

Foundation Year
The Skills You Need (Core)
Introduction to Science (Core)
Laboratory and Field Skills (Core)
Plant and Animal Biology (Core)
Maths & Experimental Design (Core)
Contextual Issues (Core)

Year 1 (Level 4)
Maths & Statistics for Science (Core)
Introduction to Chemistry (Core)
Crime Scene Investigation (Core)
Criminal Justice (Core)
Essential Laboratory Skills (Core)
Cell Biology, Biochemistry & Genetics (Core)

Year 2 (Level 5)
Forensic Evidence & Quality Management (Core)
Forensic Ecology (Core)
Analytical Methods in Applied Science (Core)
Research Methods (Core)
Taphonomy (Option)
Anatomy & Pathology (Option)
Forensic Instrumental Analysis (Option)
Laboratory Instrumental Analysis (Option)
Cell & Molecular Biology (Option)
Applied & Medical Microbiology (Option)

Year 3 (Level 6)
Research Project (Core)
Emerging Technologies & Digital Forensics (Core)
Drugs & Toxicology (Option)
Drugs & the Human Body (Option)
Forensic Archaeology (Option)
Case Studies in Forensic Science (Core)
Professional Practice & the Expert Witness (Core)

Teaching & Assessment
A broad range of assessment methods are used; these include task-based exercises, crime scene and courtroom scenarios, oral and poster presentations, essays and laboratory reports, and written exams. Each module is assessed by a variety of methods, enabling students to display their full potential. A project dissertation will form one of the final parts of your assessment.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.