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University of the West of Scotland


Courses

Forensic Science

Forensic science is the application of science in support of the legal process. Forensic scientists aim to gather evidence and analyse it for use in a court of law in a way that is impartial, expert and based on solid scientific facts. The great strides made in the analytical sciences and genetics in recent years have greatly increased the power of forensic science, and made the scientist central to solving many criminal cases.

You will gain underpinning knowledge and skills in the biological and chemical sciences that are most important in forensic science. Areas such as crime scene investigation, statistics and probability and law of evidence are studied to set the context in which forensic scientists must work.

Laboratory work is a central role, allowing you to develop as a practical scientist capable of examining evidence, extracting information and presenting your findings. A variety of other teaching methods includes site visits, guest lectures, workshops, role-play and presentations.

The University has many wellequipped laboratories for the teaching of forensic science and our students get hands-on experience in techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy, ICP atomic absorption spectroscopy, infra red spectroscopy, gel electrophoresis and scanning electron microscopy with x-ray microanalysis.

This equipment is also used for research, teaching and investigative work, for example we are using environmental forensic techniques to protect food supplies in the developing world and chiral chromatography to investigate and profile clandestine drug sources. The crime scene laboratory gives students the opportunity to investigate typical crime scene scenarios in a realistic manner.

Course Contents

Year 1

Biology and chemistry are studied as part of the first year to provide a grounding in these underpinning sciences. Students undertake complementary laboratory work to develop their practical skills in these areas. Two forensic science modules are taught which cover fingerprinting techniques, alcohol and drug analysis with reviews of relevant contentious cases. Transferable skills such as computing, word processing, presentation skills and personal development are fully integrated into the course.

Year 2

Biological sciences and chemistry knowledge is further advanced through the study of classical genetics, molecular genetics, organic and analytical science. Forensic science content is developed through topics covering crime scene investigation, law of evidence, drugs, explosives and forensic probability.

Year 3

The forensic science theme is further developed through a number of specialist modules. In support of these studies students are given extensive hands-on experience of instrumental techniques used routinely in forensic science investigations, such as microscopy of trace evidence, gas and liquid chromatography of drugs, explosives and illicit substances and atomic spectroscopy of toxic metals.

Year 4

A number of forensic specialist modules will deepen your understanding of analytical sciences, toxicology, criminalistics and physical evidence. In addition, an individual project in a related area is undertaken over two trimesters. Recent projects have involved the investigation of accelerants in arson cases and chiral profiling of designer drugs. The skills gained will make graduates attractive not only to the forensic science sector but also to many employers in the biotechnology, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

Placement Opportunities

For students interested in gaining practical experience, the Sandwich degree award offers the benefit of a paid placement period in industry.

Career Prospects

The skills and knowledge of a forensic scientist will find application in a very wide range of areas. Organisations such as the police and customs and excise are the obvious employers, however the techniques studied in this course may also be applied to environmental protection, accident investigation, drug research, the chemical industry and biomedical sciences. Many chemical and biological science graduates currently find work in analytical laboratories.

Professional Recognition

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science course is recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry as fulfilling the academic requirements for admission to Associate Membership (AMRSC).

For September 2010 Entry visit www.uwsclearing.com

For entry in September 2011, please download a PDF copy of our 2011 Prospectus >>

CAMPUS

  • Paisley

UCAS CODE

  • Forensic Science
  • Paisley Campus - F410 P BSc/FS

QUALIFICATION & DURATION

  • BSc - 3 Years
  • BSc Hons - 4 Years
  • BSc Hons (Sandwich) - 5 Years

LINKS

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

  • Higher

    BBC including two science-based subjects, along with passes in English, Mathematics and Chemistry at least @ S Grade. Higher Chemistry preferred.

  • A-Level

    CD, preferably including Chemistry. English, Mathematics & Chemistry @ GCSE. Applicants with three relevant A-Level passes may be considered for Year 2 entry.

CONTACT