Forensic Science

UCAS code: F411

Here's what De Montfort University says about its Forensic Science course.

Forensic Science brings science to the heart of justice, using cutting-edge techniques to recover, analyse, and present evidence. If you enjoy solving scientific problems, working with advanced technology, and gaining real-world skills, this course could be your perfect fit.

Choose between the three-year BSc or the four-year integrated MSci pathway—allowing you to shape your studies around your career goals.

In year one, you will build a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, and key forensic techniques. Learn the principles of crime scene analysis, forensic photography, and investigative essentials through our Essentials of Forensic Investigations module.

In year two, you’ll apply your knowledge and deepen your understanding with modules like Bodies, Tissues, and Fluids and Issues in Criminal Justice, exploring topics such as drugs, trace evidence, and the role of forensic science in the legal system.

In year three, you will advance your expertise and tackle complex topics including DNA Profiling, Fire and Toxicology, and Forensic Case Studies. You’ll also conduct an independent research project to refine your practical and analytical skills.

In year 4 (MSci only), you will focus your learning in Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, or Criminalistics, while completing advanced master's-level projects aligned with your professional ambitions.

Key features

• Top 10 for Forensic Science: Our Forensic Science courses are ranked 9th best in the UK by The Guardian University Guide 2026.

• Top 10 for graduate career prospects: Our course is ranked 6th in the UK by The Guardian University Guide 2026, measuring the proportion of graduates in graduate-level employment or further/professional study within 15 months of completing their degree.

• Industry-informed teaching: Designed in collaboration with Leicestershire Police, our courses meet professional standards and reflect current industry needs.

• Benefit from an optional placement: Take advantage of an optional year-long placement opportunity to gain practical skills in crime investigation, laboratory analysis, and forensic research. Students have completed placements with organisations such as the MET Police, East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU), Kings College London, Devon and Cornwall Police, and the National Crime Agency.

• Professionally accredited: The BSc is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, ensuring the course meets industry-recognised standards and prepares graduates for professional practice in forensic science.

• Boost your career: Students have been placed in highly competitive placement settings such as with the Metropolitan Police, East Midlands Special Operations unit (EMSO) and with internationally recognised companies such as Pfizer.

• Hands-on experience in real-world facilities: Train in our bespoke crime scene house, mock courtrooms, and cutting-edge laboratories to simulate real investigative environments.

• Global experience: Gain unique insights with DMU Global, from uncovering evidence of human rights abuses in Guatemala to attending the New York Supreme Court.

• Boost your employability: Learn from industry leaders like Churchill Fellow Leisa Nichols-Drew, specialising in forensic investigations of knife crime.

• Broaden your horizons: Graduates thrive in top roles at the Home Office, GCHQ, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Police Authorities, Deloitte, and beyond.

Year one

• Forensic, Professional and Quantitative Skills
• Foundations of Biology for Forensic Science
• Essentials of Forensic Investigations
• Foundations of Chemistry for Forensic Science Year two
• Analytical Forensic Chemistry
• Issues in Criminal Justice
• Bodies, Tissues and Fluids
• Operation Vestigium - Drugs and Trace Evidence Casework Year three
• Forensic Case Studies
• Operation Ignis – A Fire and Toxicology based investigation
• Research Project and Professional Skills
• DNA Profiling and the Presentation of Evidence
• Professional Portfolio Year four (MSci only)
• Specialist Pathway module – Either Advanced Concepts in Forensic Biology, Advanced Concepts in Forensic Chemistry OR Advanced Concepts in Criminalistics.
• Research Project and Professional Skills 2
• Contemporary Issues in Forensic Science

Your precise timetable will depend on your modules, however, you will normally benefit from 22 contact hours timetabled teaching sessions each week, consisting of lectures, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions and workshops. You will also be expected to devote a considerable amount of time to independent study, typically 18 – 20 hours per week. Practical work forms a large part of teaching and includes exercises at our mock crime house facility. You will also learn from visiting lecturers involved in forensic science. Assessments include coursework, practical reports, written and practical exams, phase tests and presentations.