Entry requirements
A level
To include Biology or Human Biology or Physics or Chemistry For entry into Year 2 we would look for BBB to include Chemistry AND Biology or Human Biology
HNC (BTEC)
Entry into Year 2 with an HNC (BTEC) in one of the following:- Applied Biology Applied Chemistry
HND (BTEC)
Entry into Year 2 with an HND (BTEC) in one of the following:- Applied Biology Applied Chemistry
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
To include Biology or Human Biology or Physics or Chemistry at S5/H4
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
To include Biology or Human Biology or Physics or Chemistry
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Entry into Year 1 with Applied Science (all pathways) For entry into Year 2 we would look for DDD Applied Science
Scottish Advanced Higher
Entry into Year 2 to include Chemistry AND Biology or Human Biology
Scottish HNC
Entry into Year 2 with an HNC in one of the following:- Applied Sciences - Graded Unit B Bioscience - Graded Unit B Biomedical Science - Graded Unit B
Scottish HND
Entry into Year 2 with an HND in one of the following:- Applied Biological Science - Graded Unit B Applied Bioscience - Graded Units BB Applied Chemical Science - Graded Unit B Applied Science - Graded Unit B Biomedical Science - Graded Unit B Bioscience - Graded Unit B
Scottish Higher
To include Biology or Human Biology or Physics or Chemistry - National 5 Chemistry (or equivalent) must be present for entry into Year 1 in the absence of Higher Chemistry
UCAS Tariff
We've calculated how many Ucas points you'll need for this course.
About this course
Forensic Science is the application of scientific knowledge and techniques in support of the legal process. Thanks to advances in technology and an increased reliance on forensic techniques by police, this exciting but competitive industry is growing every day. You will be taught by forensic science practitioners who have come directly from industry. Re-enact and analyse crime scenes in our purpose-built crime scene house and high street bank. We can help you secure a summer internship or even a 12-month paid placement at a laboratory. Forensic science graduates are highly employable, both in the specialist arena of forensic investigation and in other areas requiring an enquiring, scientific and legal mind. Upon graduating, you are eligible to apply for associate membership to the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (ACSFS).
You will also have the opportunity to study for one further year and graduate with an MSci in Forensic and Analytical Science - the only programme of its kind in Scotland. You'll graduate with a Masters level qualification and the prerequisites for Registered Scientist recognition by the Science Council.
Modules
Core modules (subject to change over time) - Biology Principles & Practice; Foundations of Chemistry 1 & 2; Introduction to Forensic Science, Practice & Techniques; Molecular Biology & Genetics; Special Topics in Forensic Biology; Forensic Chromatography & Spectroscopy; Forensic Trace Evidence; Forensic Applications of DNA, Substances of Abuse and Honours Project. Other modules that may be offered (subject to change over time) - Human Physiology; Advanced Chemical Processes; Cell Biology & Immunology; Investigative Analytical Chemistry; Law; Advanced Forensic Examination & Analysis Techniques; Forensic Material Investigation; Fore & Explosives and Interpretation & Presentation of Evidence.
Assessment methods
We offer a broad range of learning environments, including traditional lecture and tutorial format, student-led learning, interactive class sessions, practical and a substantial element of laboratory work. We encourage independent study, meaning that you take responsibility for your own learning. Your study is assessed with a variety of methods enabling you to demonstrate progress in different ways. Coursework typically includes laboratory reports, essays and oral presentations. Formal exams typically include questions that require either short answers or essays coupled with problem-solving of forensic-related challenges. In your final dissertation you are individually supported by an experienced research active member of staff. Lab reports, essays, oral presentations and exams. Year 1 is approximately 50% exam and 50% coursework. Year 4 is approximately 100% exam in some instances - not including final year project, which is coursework based.
Tuition fees
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The Uni
Abertay Campus
School of Applied Sciences
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How do students rate their degree experience?
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Forensic and archaeological sciences
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After graduation
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Forensic and archaeological sciences
What are graduates doing after six months?
This is what graduates told us they were doing (and earning), shortly after completing their course. We've crunched the numbers to show you if these immediate prospects are high, medium or low, compared to those studying this subject/s at other universities.
Top job areas of graduates
What do graduate employment figures really tell you?The statistics here primarily reflect the prospects for forensic science graduates - they make up over three quarters of the group. While there are not a lot of jobs available in forensics itself just at the moment, reflected in the overall unemployment rates for forensic science graduates, there are still jobs for graduates from these subjects as they learn useful analysis techniques that some employers can find in short supply. Last year's graduates went into analysis work in labs, technician roles and general research, and for those looking a little wider, business roles and management also employed forensics graduates. Some graduates join the police with this degree and that can be a good source of sponsorship and work experience.
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