From analysing fingerprints up close in a laboratory to presenting cases and evidence in a mock court, these are just some examples of the diverse, hands-on experiences that shape the day-to-day role of a second-year BSc (Hons) Criminal Justice and Forensic student.
Step onto campus each morning and grab a coffee before taking a walk surrounded by trees and a breathtaking historic abbey – this will all seem like an alternative world when you enter the laboratory block and get into your white lab coat and safety glasses!
The course strikes a great balance between practical learning and theory, and the academics are always on hand to provide support and advice. The degree gives you a real sense of what it’s actually like to work as a forensic scientist and helps you understand the professional standards you are expected to uphold throughout your career. It gives you a real appreciation of the responsibility involved.
So far, my degree has given me the opportunity to grow. Not only in confidence with my practical and theory-based skills, but with my peers.
A course like this enables all personalities to work together to fulfil the duties necessary to successfully enter a crime scene without contaminating evidence. You’ll learn how to solve mathematical or chemical equations essential to analysing a certain aspect of a case, and to work together and consider the roles within the criminal justice system in our current society. Students step into each role thoroughly and address the pro et contra (pros and cons) …and work on some Latin phrases within Scots Law!
Here are some tips I would share for a successful year as a student on this course:
Expect the unexpected!
You never truly know what’s waiting ahead for you during a university day. You could be walking into a lecture to analyse and thoroughly consider a real-life crime case. What are the initial steps to approaching the scene? What precautions need to be taken? What potential evidence is present? Who is responsible for each duty at the scene? Or on the opposite end of the scale, you could be making footwear casts (also very fun!).
The CSI effect!
Don’t be fooled by certain TV programmes that exaggerate the role of a forensic scientist or criminal justice expert. There are many aspects of forensic science that I considered to be true before starting but quickly found out that it’s not all like it’s portrayed on screen. While the course may be less dramatic than television suggests, it is no less rewarding or exciting.
Have fun!
The most important advice I would give to any student is to have fun and allow your personality to shine throughout your time on this course. You’ll work with many different people - no two are the same - so it’s important to bring your own skills and strengths to every situation. You never know, it might just help you solve something!
Find out more about studying Criminal Justice and Forensic Science
Amy, 2nd year BSc (Hons) Criminal Justice and Forensic Science student
Last updated: 28/05/2026