- Introduction to Forensic Science (BIOL07011) - 20 Credits
- Introduction to Chemistry (CHEM07008) - 20 Credits
- Human Biology (BIOL07002) - 20 Credits
- Scientific Data Analysis (MATH07005) - 20 Credits
- Cell Biology & Genetics (BIOL07001) - 20 Credits
- Chemical Laboratory Skills (CHEM07009) - 20 Credits
Undergraduate
School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences
⭐ Professional Accreditation
University of the West of Scotland
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science
A professionally accredited honours degree combining advanced analytical sciences, genetics, and hands-on simulation techniques to prepare graduates for elite careers in national and international criminal justice systems.
Paisley September
Duration
4 years full-time or 5 years full-time (sandwich), typically 6 years part-time
IELTS (min)
6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component)
Course overview
About the Course
The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science equips students with the advanced biological and chemical techniques needed to gather, preserve, and synthesize impartial evidence that can withstand rigorous scrutiny in courts of law.
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This highly practical undergraduate degree develops extensive competencies across crime scene investigation and the meticulous laboratory analysis of recovered materials such as DNA, toxicology samples, trace evidence, and drugs.
Programme structure
Course Modules
This programme is structured to build strong subject knowledge, academic readiness and applied professional capability through each stage of study.
- Crime Scene Investigation (BIOL08012) - 20 Credits
- Analytical Chemistry 1 (CHEM08001) - 20 Credits
- Molecular Biology (BIOL08003) - 20 Credits
- Forensic Examination of Materials (BIOL08013) - 20 Credits
- Organic Chemistry (CHEM08003) - 20 Credits
- Microbiology & Physiology (BIOL08002) - 20 Credits
- Advanced Crime Scene & Law (BIOL09015) - 20 Credits
- Forensic Toxicology (BIOL09016) - 20 Credits
- Analytical Chemistry 2 (CHEM09002) - 20 Credits
- Forensic Biology & DNA Profiling (BIOL09017) - 20 Credits
- Bioanalysis & Biotechnology (BIOL09001) - 20 Credits
- Work-Based Professional Placement / Elective - 20 Credits
- Forensic Science Research Project / Thesis (BIOL10006) - 40 Credits
- Advanced Forensic Biology & Interpretation (BIOL10011) - 20 Credits
- Advanced Analytical Chemistry (CHEM10001) - 20 Credits
- Drugs, Ballistics & Explosives (BIOL10012) - 20 Credits
- Case Assessment & Interpretation (BIOL10013) - 20 Credits
Placement Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Secure specialized scientific support pipelines across global law enforcement frameworks
Graduate Outcomes
HighAccredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences to meet international forensic expert requirements.
Graduates possess an excellent foundation for a rewarding career within civilian support networks and laboratory environments. The transferable analytical, biotechnology, and molecular competencies ad…
What our students say
Key placement benefits
- Crime Scene Preservation & Evidence Collection
- DNA Profiling & Gel Electrophoresis
- GC-MS Analytical Instrumentation Operation
- Case Assessment, Interpretation & Reporting
Placement providers
- National Security & Law Enforcement Agencies (e.g., Police Scotland, UK Police Forces)
- Border Control & Customs (e.g., UK Border Force, HM Customs and Excise)
- Multinational Bio-Pharmaceutical Corporations (e.g., GlaxoSmithKline)
- Environmental & Niche Industrial Sectors (e.g., Distilling and Brewing, Food Safety)
Tuition information
Tuition Fees
2026/2027 Academic Year
Scholarships Available
£18,900 per year of study
£3,150 per 20-credit syllabus module block
Flexible standard tuition fee instalment structures are configurable via student financial ports.
Enhanced International Undergraduate Scholarships may apply to significantly decrease gross costs.
*Gross tuition parameters undergo structured annual review. Values shown strictly reflect international undergraduate benchmarks.
English language
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate English language proficiency parameters for direct entry.
6.0
IELTS Score Required
Minimum 5.5 in each individual component
Accepted alternatives
Other recognized tests
-
TOEFL iBT
78 -
Pearson PTE Academic
54 -
Duolingo English Test
105
Equivalent verified language certifications are evaluated case-by-case by our international team.
Maximum Exemptions Available
Industry Accreditations
Globally Recognised Professional Excellence
The course layout is fully accredited and recognized by elite professional societies, assuring that your laboratory training maps directly onto international forensic standards.
The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences
Full Professional Course Accreditation Framework
Guarantees that the tactical skills and mock courtroom assessments mirror professional standards.
Royal Society of Chemistry
Associate Membership Recognition Mapping (AMRSC)
Enables graduates to register with the RSC and pursue Chartered Chemist status.
An ATAS certificate is not required for overseas students applying for this forensic pathway.
Official admissions guidance
Academic Entry Requirements
Applicants are expected to satisfy general UWS undergraduate admission criteria. High school credentials, international baccalaureates, and all non-EU country-specific academic qualification profiles are thoroughly evaluated on an individual case-by-case basis. Advanced entry is open to Year 2 or Year 3 for suitably qualified science diploma applicants.
Our specialized international teams are prepared to run an official qualification check and confirm your application profile.
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