Forensic Science BSc (Hons)
Subject and course type
- Forensic Science
- Undergraduate
Get started with the Forensic Science BSc (Hons) degree course from ÖØ¿ÚζSM, accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS).
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Learn how to unpick, analyse and interpret the clues in a crime scene
Want to pursue a career in forensic science?
On this course, you will benefit from our cutting-edge facilities in DNA analysis, archaeology, questioned documents, toxicology and drug confirmation. Our equipment and instruments are based on those used in real life casework examinations.
In addition, you will get to make use of our designated crime scene house. This is a real semi-detached house located on-site. Its five rooms contain various types of mock crime scenes, including burglary, arson, assault and sexual crime.
We’re ranked No.1 in London by the Complete University Guide 2025 and the New Scientist Careers Guide 2024, and in the top 10 in the country for Forensic Science (Guardian University Guide 2025).
We’ve received four commendations from the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences for our forensic state-of-the-art technology and innovative student training programmes.
The way Forensic Science is being taught it allows you to have lots of crime scene practicals, preparing you to face real jobs and provides you with the fundamental information needed for the future.
Why choose this course
How is scientific evidence gathered from a crime scene? How is it analysed and used in investigation? How is it interpreted and presented in court?
This course prepares you for a career as a forensic scientist. Case studies, evidence interpretation, fieldwork and laboratory training cover all aspects of investigating criminal offences. These include crime scene processing, forensic archaeology, drugs, toxicology, DNA profiling, body fluids, entomology, fibres, fire investigation and ballistics.
You'll also have an introduction to criminal law, which includes cross-examination in a Crown Court setting.
Specialist topics include blood pattern analysis (BPA), gunshot residue detection, counterfeits and forgeries, and the analysis of trace evidence. In addition, this course provides additional industry recognised certificates in BPA, forensic toxicology and DNA profiling at no extra cost.
We have recently updated our modules to enhance student-centred teaching and align course content with industry needs, helping you become a future-proof graduate.
Kingston is No.1 in London for Forensic Science (Complete University Guide 2025, New Scientist Careers Guide 2024).
Kingston is in the top 10 in the UK for Forensic Science (Guardian University Guide 2025).
Accreditation
The 410 course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences for the component standards in Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence; Laboratory Analysis; and Crime Scene Investigation.
This course is currently accredited until March 2025, when accreditation will undergo renewal. When you graduate you are eligible to apply to be an Associate of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (ACSFS post-nominals). Having completed appropriate continuing professional development in a forensic science workplace, you can also become a Professional Member (MCSFS).
Pleas note: The 4 years full-time including a foundation year route is not accredited.
The crime scene house
You will get to make use of our designated crime scene house. This is a real semi-detached house located on-site. Its five rooms contain various types of mock crime scenes, including burglary, arson, assault and sexual crime.
Students have to pick up evidence carefully and transport it back to the labs for preservation and analysis. Even the garden contains evidence and is used by the forensic team's archaeologist for teaching.
The crime scene house is also used extensively to teach Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA).
Course content
Year 1
Year 1 offers a broad understanding of the major branches of biology and biochemistry. You will develop key laboratory skills, and learn to give detailed scientific explanations for the theory and practices used in modern forensic science.
Core modules
30 credits
This module will introduce you to the key analytical techniques and expertise of different forensic specialists. It focuses on the analytical techniques used in forensic investigations. You will learn about the various categories of forensic evidence, before developing your understanding of the underlying techniques used in forensic investigations.
You will also find out more about the emerging role of artificial intelligence in forensic science, covering its applications in evidence analysis and data interpretation. You will explore how AI can enhance traditional techniques while considering ethical implications.
30 credits
This core module introduces you to the multifaceted world of forensic science, providing an overview of key disciplines and their roles in criminal investigations. The module covers various forensic specialities, including DNA analysis, toxicology, fire investigations, skeletal anatomy, post-mortem changes, and wildlife forensics.
You will explore the fundamental principles and methodologies used in these disciplines, engaging in hands-on learning through crime scene practicals, human anatomy practicals, and workshops. This practical approach aims to develop your essential skills in evidence collection, preservation, and interpretation.
The module emphasises critical thinking and analytical skills in forensic science. You will apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios, fostering problem-solving abilities and understanding the challenges faced in forensic investigations. You will combine collaborative work with classmates, and independent research to deepen your understanding and prepare you for future academic and professional endeavours.
You will also learn about the ethical considerations and legal frameworks that govern forensic practice, gaining insight into the role of forensic scientists in the criminal justice system and the importance of scientific rigour and impartiality.
30 credits
This module provides a firm foundation in the general scientific and laboratory skills students require to successfully complete their programmes of study.
A significant component of the module consists of the development and demonstration of core technical/practical skills through familiarity with the laboratory environment through hands-on learning.
This module will also introduce you to Future Skills through engagement with the Navigate programme introducing the key graduate attributes required in developing your professional development portfolio in the biosciences. The Future Skills concepts and activities will support you in developing and evidencing your practice, scientific analytical/problem-solving, teamworking, digital competency, practical and numeracy skills.
30 credits
This module introduces basic cell biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, genetics, germ layers, and tissue types in the human body, as well as various microorganisms.
You will experience practical sessions in a state-of-the-art laboratory, on microscopy, histology, cytogenetics and microbiology, enabling you to develop practical skills in the correct use of microscopes, examining and studying chromosomes, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, microbes and tissues, interpreting, and recording biological data, and build upon your knowledge gained from lectures.
This module provides a foundation for advanced modules in cell biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics, and microbiology.
Year 2
Year 2 introduces specialist topics in forensic science. These include DNA and human identification, advanced crime-scene analysis, counterfeits and forgeries and the application of analytical techniques to the analysis of trace evidence such as fire, fibres, glass and fingerprints. You will also be introduced to criminal law and receive expert witness training. This will culminate in the cross-examination of expert witness testimony and opinion in a mock courtroom setting at Kingston Crown Court.
Core modules
30 credits
This module will help you further develop your scientific and employability skills, and embed these skills within the real-world applications of forensic biology. You will develop your Future Skills through engagement with the Explore assessment, applying problem-solving to real-world problems within forensic biology.
You will also expand your knowledge of forensic biology with a focus on key methods of human identification, and contact trace evidence, associated with the human skeleton, tissues and fluids, including DNA analysis.
You will foster a critical evaluation of the applicability and reliability of key forensic techniques by exploring different methods through scientific research and case practice.
Key concepts in effective use of biological evidence in forensic investigations, such as the use of controls, reference samples and databases, statistical analyses, and reduction of bias and error will also be addressed.
This will help you understand the importance of these skills within the forensic science sector, and you will explore different employability routes in the industry.
You will be supported by tutor meetings, enabling you to work on tasks and assessments which develop your graduate attributes.
30 credits
This module will cover the various roles involved within the professional field of forensic science, ranging from those at the crime scene all the way to the expert witness.
You will gain practical experience of observation and recording, evidence collection, preservation, documentation, and chain of custody through a series of simulated crime scenes. The impact that the crime scene has on the integrity of evidence will be explored through real forensic case studies, where techniques used to analyse evidence will be complemented from teaching across the other Level 5 modules. You will use the 'Case Assessment and Interpretation' (CAI) model in relation to prosecution and defence scenarios and this skill will be developed through mock trials with law students.
The module will also introduce you to those statistical models used by forensic scientists in the court of law as well as gain an understanding of the importance of presenting to a lay audience such as a jury. You will develop your awareness of future employment opportunities through the exposure to regulations and standard operating procedures utilised by Forensic, Law and UK Criminal Justice Systems, as well as working with law students.
30 credits
This module immerses you into the world of analytical science applied to problem solving in biochemistry, clinical chemistry, forensic analysis and pharmaceutical science applications. It develops critical thinking in being able to identify the best approaches used to prepare samples, collect results and analyse data, whether it is quantitative or qualitative in various scenarios. You will build your knowledge, practical skills and interpretation skills whilst implementing the analytical process model using scenario-based learning.
30 credits
This module will introduce you to the forensic analysis of counterfeits, fakes and forgeries. You will start by learning about document analysis and its importance in a forensic investigation. Examples of topics within forensic document analysis include the analysis of handwriting, signatures, inks, indentations, writing implements, printed documents and digital media. You will explore counterfeit case studies involving drugs, consumer products and art and antiques.
You will learn how counterfeits and forgeries are produced and how they are examined. You will practice the investigation techniques used in cases involving counterfeit documents and fraud.
Year 3
Year 3 provides you with the opportunity to study further forensic topics, including the analysis of body fluids, advanced DNA analysis, forensic archaeology, examination of crime scene exhibits, drugs, toxicology, fire investigation and ballistics.
You will also undertake an independent research project which will allow you to hone your skills in a specific area of forensic science which includes but is not limited to DNA analysis, crime scene investigation, forensic toxicology and drug analysis, GSR analysis, skeletal anatomy, analysis of fire evidence, questioned documents and document fraud.
Core modules
30 credits
This module focuses on the detection, recording, and interpretation of biological trace evidence, emphasizing blood, semen, and saliva. Diverse case scenarios from volume to major crime will help you gain knowledge and skills to critically assess biological evidence using various tests and instrumentation.
The curriculum blends lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, simulated crime scenes, and interactive workshops, complemented by online resources. You will investigate your own case, applying advanced forensic techniques including Blood Pattern Analysis, DNA profile interpretation, and evidence evaluation. This culminates in preparing an expert witness statement adhering to Criminal Procedure Rules (Part 19) and presenting in a mock court scenario.
15 credits
Your independent project forms a very important part of your degree programme. There are several types of projects that may be offered to you: a laboratory or field-based project, data projects involving acquisition of data and information from surveys, computer simulations or bioinformatics, or a systematic review of research literature that includes the collection, analysis, and original presentation of reported research data. Previous topics chosen include forensic toxicology, bloodstain pattern analysis, DNA profiling, trace evidence, GSR analysis, forensic anthropology and archaeology.
Your project will include a review and critical evaluation of qualitative and quantitative information and data to address a hypothesis or research question, and the production of a written report.
30 credits
This module explores in greater detail the analytical and forensic techniques encountered in trace and contact evidence case work analysis. You will gain an oversight into the quality framework applied in Forensic case work to ensure that the integrity of evidence is maintained, and then focus on several areas such as drugs of abuse, fibre analysis, fire investigation, explosives and ballistics.
30 credits
This module will introduce you to the role of the forensic archaeologist and the broad range of cases where archaeological techniques may be used. These techniques include aerial and geophysical survey, excavation and recording of burials and the outdoor crime scene, and the scientific dating of both questioned objects and human remains. You will embed your learning through lectures, case-based workshops and outdoor practicals, involving scenarios such as locating a missing person, outdoor crime scenes and clandestine burials.
15 credits
This module provides you with a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes. At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile and determine which attributes and skills you need to develop to support your career ambitions. You will be supported in this process by a dedicated career coach, who will help you to explore a range of options including self-employment/freelancing, starting your own business, higher level study, and other professional Graduate level opportunities. Students will also be given opportunities to engage with external mentors throughout the module to support reflection and to develop a professional network.
You will then undertake a tailored series of activities and projects, aligned to your goals from a menu of development options. This could include short courses, enrichment activities and experiential learning options such as micro-placements. You will also be able to reflect on activities that you undertake outside the university through which you are developing your graduate attributes, such as work or volunteering.
Science Foundation Year
If you would like to study one of our science degrees at Kingston Universitybut are not yet ready to join the first year of a BSc (Hons) course, you can include an extra foundation year within your chosen degree. Please see the science foundation year course page for details of modules.
All the lecturers have real experience in the field and share their insights with us. From analysing crime scene evidence to understanding the science behind forensic techniques, the course provided invaluable skills.
Future Skills and career opportunities
On graduation from this course, you will be prepared to work in a range of environments, including forensic laboratories, policing, analytical chemistry laboratories, hospitals and private consultancies.
Embedded within this course and throughout the whole Kingston experience is our Future Skills programme. The Future Skills programme was developed to respond to the ever-evolving demands from modern day employment.
It will help you obtain the skills most valued by employers, such as problem-solving, digital competency and adaptability, and learn how to apply these skills in different scenarios. You’ll also learn how to articulate to employers how being able to do so gives you the edge.
At ÖØ¿ÚζSM, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it
For more information on how Kingston prepares you for the future job market, visit our Future Skills page.
Teaching and assessment
Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars, small group tutorials and practical sessions.
It may also include placements, project work, workshops, conferences and field trips.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
Our academic support team here at Kingston Universityprovides help in a range of areas.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at ÖØ¿ÚζSM.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- Year 1: 22% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 2: 25% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 3: 19% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Types of assessment
- Year 1: Coursework 90%; exams 10%
- Year 2: Coursework 84%; exams 16%
- Year 3: Coursework 81%; exams 19%
Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. If your course includes optional modules, this breakdown may change to reflect the modules chosen.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.
To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 50 students and lecture sizes are normally 50Â-325Â. However this can vary by module and academic year.
The lecturers are also very friendly and approachable, something I noticed from the very start of applying when I was going to University open days. They are really good at explaining concepts to make sure they are understood.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £9,535* | |
| Foundation Year: | £9,535 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2025/26): | £18,500 |
| Year 2 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 3 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
| Year 4 (2028/29): | £20,700 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed in our Fees and Funding section. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* For full-time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying this course at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston Universitywill pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Courses involving placements or direct work with vulnerable groups may require a DBS check or other security checks.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes. Kingston Universitywill supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year.
Some courses may require professional memberships.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
The diverse curriculum exposed me to a wide range of industry specialisms, and the supportive lecturers really wanted us to succeed. The crime scene house and forensic biology modules sparked a passion for crime scene investigation and DNA analysis, and ultimately encouraged me to explore these topics.
The ‘crime house’ and the laboratory practicals give me hands-on training and equip me with the skills I need for a solid foundation in science.
Studying at Kingston has solidified my passion for Forensic Science and has motivated me to pursue a career as a forensic investigator, where I can apply all the skills I have learnt to impart justice and contribute positively to society in the future.
Key information
The scrolling banner below displays some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
