Compulsory modules

Forensic Chemistry: Molecules under Investigation 
Here you will gain a solid foundation in the chemical underpinnings of forensic science. Applying core concepts such as molecular structure and polarity to key spectroscopic characterisation techniques will give you the knowledge required to succeed in our forensic chemical analysis modules later in your degree. You will receive hands-on training in a variety of laboratory techniques and spectroscopic instrumentation, as well as be introduced to the important topic of statistics in the interpretation and evaluation of forensic evidence. 

Forensic Investigation: From Documents to DNA 
In this module you will be introduced to forensic science as a professional discipline, covering topics such as crime scene investigation, laboratory examination and the role of the expert witness in court. You will develop your communication skills by presenting data and summarising findings in formats suitable for different audiences, including laboratory-based examination forms and oral presentation work. You will be introduced to recovery and analysis techniques with emphasis on human identification. 

Human Physiology and Anatomy 
The module will introduce you to the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. You will also explore how different pathologies can develop as a result of dysfunction in these systems and their impact. Through group-based activities you will produce content on select module topics, developing key skills in teamwork and leadership, and in communicating to different audiences.   

Cells, Genetics and Evolution 
Embarking on the study of biology from a genes to ecosystems level requires knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts in biology. From the structure and function of biological macromolecules, cellular organisation and division, foundations of genetics to evolutionary theory and the organisation of life. This module gives you the underpinning knowledge and skills you’ll need as you start your exciting journey into the biological world. You will develop scientific report writing skills as you write up key practical experiments that support the module content. 

Practical and Academic Skills in Bioscience 
In this module you will develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across your programme and deepening your understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support your development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks from invited speakers, including former graduates, and further employability skills workshops will support you in reflecting on your key skills development and career-planning.  

Compulsory modules

Forensic Genetics: DNA and Crime 
In this module you will continue to learn about the importance of biological material in forensic casework and how this evidence has the potential to identifying individuals by DNA profiling. Fundamentals in DNA profiling techniques will be explored, its application in forensic investigations and the presentation of DNA evidence in court. You will complete a case-study assessment where you will gain experience of interpreting, evaluating, and presenting DNA evidence. 

Applications of Molecular Biology 
In this module, you will explore how we can study and manipulate genetic material, from sequencing technologies to gene cloning and genetic engineering. You will learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules and produce novel gene products such as therapeutics. Through tutorials and workshops, you will develop skills in introductory bioinformatic tools, whilst also considering some important ethical principles, developing key reasoning and analytical skills.    

Crime Scenes: Blood, Marks and Prints 
In this module you will further develop your CSI skills and learn the scientific basis behind the enhancement of different types of evidence found at a crime scene. You will learn the principles behind blood dynamics and blood spatter analysis; forensic imaging techniques as well as the chemical and physical enhancement of forensic marks, prints and impressions. You will develop these skills through practical lab work and through simulations. You will develop scientific writing skills to prepare you for Level 6 and will be assessed on your practical lab skills. 

Drugs of Abuse 
Building on the skills and knowledge gained in Forensic Chemistry: Molecules under Investigation, the Forensic Science Professional Toolkit, and Chemical Analysis and Detection, in this module, you will learn about the role of a forensic analyst in the investigation of drugs and drugs related crime. You will gain an understanding of the systematic abuse of drugs and alcohol and be introduced to the relevant legal issues. Aspects of pharmacology, including pharmacodynamics, the mode of action, and basic metabolism will be introduced alongside the examination of various classes of drugs in detail. The practical determination of drugs and alcohol in biological specimens will be demonstrated through laboratory sessions using presumptive tests and spectroscopic techniques.

Forensic Anthropology: Decomposition and Skeletal Analysis 
In this module you will learn about the processes that a body goes through after death, and how your knowledge of these postmortem changes can be applied to casework to aid with search and recovery, time of death estimates and victim identification. You will develop your knowledge of skeletal and muscular anatomy, learning how variation between individuals can be used to build a biological profile of the victim, as well as gaining experience in the analysis and interpretation of skeletal trauma and pathologies. 

Optional modules

Counterfeits, Fakes and Forgeries 
In this module you will delve into the topic of counterfeits, fakes and forgeries and how forensic science can detect and prevent these crimes. You will learn the current issues surrounding topics such as document security, heritage security, counterfeit medicine and food fraud. You will investigate how chemical and analytical analysis can be used to detect these forgeries and will develop practical and reporting skills needed for these investigations. You will develop critical thinking skills needed to investigate these complex cases. 

Human Genetics 
In this module, you will look at some of the applications of key genetic concepts at the level of the individual and the population. Focusing mainly on medical genetics, you will you’ll learn how a person's genetic make-up can affect their health and how to estimate genetic risk and explore some of the applications of molecular genetics in the study of, diagnosis of and treatment of genetic diseases. You will develop group working and communication skills as your progress through the teaching and learning on the module. 

Molecular Ecology and Plant Genetics 
Advances in molecular biology, analysis and sharing of genomic data have important applications in the plant, ecological and conservation sciences. You will study how genetic and genomic tools, both in the lab and at the desktop, are being used to enhance our understanding of plant biology and ecological processes. The module will help you to think in a ‘genes to ecosystems’ framework and prepare you for careers in a big data, post-genomic world. 

Nutrition and Health 
In this module, you will explore the critical roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in nutrition and health. You will learn about diseases associated with imbalanced nutrient intake, the effects of alcohol metabolism, and the impact of nutrition on development from pregnancy through ageing. You will study the molecular mechanisms of ageing, nutrient requirements at different life stages, and the relationship between nutrition and diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions. This module will provide you with essential insights into the interplay between diet and health throughout the lifespan.

Flexible Work Placement
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial.  This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhancing your employability, and the opportunity to gain valuable professional insights via a 75-hour placement. You will be supported by various activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles.  This module offers flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands. 

Compulsory modules

Topics in Forensic Biology
This module will allow you to build skills in collecting and interpreting forensic biological data. This will involve developing your abilities in working with soft tissue, DNA analysis, teeth and entomology. This will involve learning in the lab to grow your practical skills in both collecting and analysing forensic biological evidence. Assessment is similarly aimed at assessing your abilities in a practical sense through forensic reports. This module aims to expand your career prospects in the forensic biology field, and is ideal if you have an academic interest in biology and/or aspirations to work within forensic biology in the future.

Crime Scene to Court 
This module builds on your forensic examination skills from all Level 4 and 5 core modules. You will continue to develop your ability to professionally examine and report evidence, building on skills that will be vital for work in a professional context. You will attend a simulated crime scene as a crime scene examiner; investigate the evidence as a forensic scientist and finally report your findings as an expert witness in our simulated courtroom. 

Forensic Toxicology: Ingestion to Detection 
Building upon the Drugs of Abuse module in second year, here you will examine the work of a forensic toxicologist. You will study the pharmacological journey of compounds through the body as a lead into the process of toxicological investigation. In addition to learning about the subject’s legal aspects, the role of the analyst will be explored from sampling to the determination of toxins and poisons, with the use of toxicological cases and scenarios as authentic applications of the content.

Forensic Biology Research Project 
This module is an opportunity for you to carry out a substantial piece of meaningful research in forensic biology.  You will work alongside staff to undertake an authentic research project, which could include lab- or field-based projects, systematic reviews, pedagogic or desk-based research work. Through engagement with this module, you will be introduced to the approaches needed to perform scientific research and develop key skills that are routinely utilised by the forensic biology research community. 

Optional modules

Marks and Traces Examination 
This module further develops your knowledge and practical experience of marks and trace examination that will prepare you for the forensic laboratory practitioner workplace. Working through current SOPs and guidelines will provide valuable employability skills. An emphasis will be made on the documentation of forensic physical trace evidence that will be usable in court. 

Conservation Biology 
Dive into conservation biology, exploring biodiversity and conservation in the face of human impacts. Engage in a real-world ecological consultancy scenario as the core of your assessment, honing skills through fieldwork, research, and tutorials. Craft a biodiversity net gain report for a site of ecological and historical significance, mirroring the tasks of a professional ecological consultant. Delve into conservation with guest speakers, gaining firsthand insights into this multifaceted domain. Experience conservation work firsthand and broaden your understanding of this vital field. 

Environmental and Wildlife Forensics 
Through this module, you will have the opportunity to apply your forensic expertise to environmental and wildlife crime, exploring topics ranging from industrial contamination of land to the illegal trade of exotic animal products. We will equip you with the skills to investigate environmental crime scenes, interrogate a range of natural and artificial evidence types, and to combine different types of data to protect the environment and wildlife in the U.K. and beyond. 

Animal Welfare 
This module will develop your knowledge of legislation and current topics in animal welfare. It will help you appreciate the social, political and moral dimensions of animal welfare, bridging the gap between science and ethics in the animal industry. A journal club format will help you to sensitively approach complex issues, handle nuance and build your own opinions, based on scientific fact. Building on your previous studies, this module will help prepare you for a broad range of animal-related careers. 

Flexible Work Placement
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial.  This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhancing your employability, and the opportunity to gain valuable professional insights via a 75-hour placement. You will be supported by various activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles.  This module offers flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands. 

Professional Experience in Education 
This module gives students interested in pursuing teaching or training as a career the opportunity to gain experience in the world of teaching in schools and colleges. You will develop skills highly valued by employers such as communication, and interpersonal skills, whilst learning to address individual needs and developing engaging teaching materials. You will be supported via a range of activities to prepare for your placement and have the choice to source your own placement or apply to university sourced roles.