Forensic Science

This award is validated by The Open University (OU).

About the course

You’ll develop knowledge and understanding of forensic science theories and practice to be able to apply them in a variety of situations and contexts.

Year 1 (Level 4) modules: • Introduction to Forensic Biology • Introduction to Forensic Chemistry • Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation and Photography • Professional, Research, and Quantitative Skills • The Legal System, Criminal Justice, and the Expert Witness

Year 2 (Level 5) modules: • Advanced Forensic Biology • Analytical Forensic Chemistry • Advanced Crime Scene Investigation and Management • Forensic Analysis of Evidence • Bloodstain Pattern Analysis • Fire and Explosions

Year 3 (Level 6) modules: • Independent Research Project • Anthropology, Archaeology, and Post-Mortem Processes • Toxicology and Drugs of Abuse • Interpretation, Evaluation, and Presentation of Evidence • Contemporary Issues in Forensic Science

Specialist facilities:

This course is based at our new £58 million City Hub campus, next to Nottingham train station. The campus boasts state-of-the-art science laboratories for students studying in the fields of biology, chemistry, forensics, pharmaceuticals and dental technology. Specialist forensic resources at our Basford campus include a crime scene house with blood spatter room and fingerprint analysis equipment.

Assessment

Units are assessed via a range of internally set and assessed assignments including: reports, case studies, oral presentations, practical assessments, crime scene assessments, mock court assessments, individual project work, data analysis, research, investigation, problem-solving tasks and portfolios of evidence.

Qualifications awarded

(Level 6) Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Forensic Science - awarded by The Open University

Bursaries

We want our courses to be accessible to students from any background, so we’ve put together a cash support package in the form of non-repayable bursaries to provide financial help where it’s really needed. Details for 2025-26 will be advertised once approved by the university regulator – the Office for Students (OfS). Please check our website - www.nottinghamcollege.ac.uk - for more information.

Careers and progression

This is a versatile science degree providing an excellent basis for future careers.

Graduates will be well-placed for employment in a wide variety of fields, such as governmental agencies, forensic investigation, policing, quality assurance in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratory analysis, chemical and biological research and teaching.

Specific roles include: forensic scientist, ballistic expert, DNA analyst, toxicologist, biomedical scientist or analytical chemist.