University of Derby United Kingdom

BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Criminology with Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Criminology with Foundation Year at the University of Derby is your gateway to understanding the intricate science behind criminal investigations and the societal factors that drive them. This comprehensive undergraduate degree is ideal for aspiring professionals keen to develop expertise in analysing physical evidence, reconstructing crime scenes, and interpreting criminal behaviour. You will gain a robust foundation in forensic principles, laboratory techniques, and criminological theory, preparing you for the complexities of the justice system and the evolving demands of forensic science practice.

This full-time, four-year on-campus programme begins with a foundational year to build essential academic and practical skills, including principles of chemistry, biology, and research methods. As you progress, you will delve into core areas such as methods of laboratory examination, scene investigation, clinical genetics, and policing and society. You will develop critical analytical abilities through practical work, potentially including a placement year, and culminate in a significant research project. Graduates will be well-prepared for diverse career paths in forensic science, law enforcement, and related fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This foundation year program equips students with essential academic and practical skills, alongside foundational knowledge in forensic science, biology, chemistry, English, and mathematics. Subsequent years delve into advanced forensic science topics such as clinical genetics, laboratory examination, scene investigation, and forensic biology, complemented by criminology modules covering policing, victimology, and societal aspects of crime. The curriculum progresses to specialist areas including object marks, human identification, forensic anthropology, and medical forensics, culminating in a research project and an exploration of miscarriages of justice.

1 Foundation Year

Academic and Practical Skills
Foundation in Forensic Science
Principles of Cellular Biology
Principles of Chemistry
English
Mathematics
Research Methods and Data Handling
Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Physiology

2 Year One

Clinical Genetics
Chemistry of Life
Principles and Skills in Forensic Science
Methods of Laboratory Examination
Methods of Scene Investigation
Forensic Chemistry

3 Year Two

Policing and Society
Object Marks
Human and Non-Human Identification
Trace interpretation and Research
Victimology
Forensic Anthropology
Forensic Biology

4 Optional Placement Year

Applied Professional Practice
Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

5 Year Three

Research Project
Miscarriages of Justice for Forensic Science
Specialist Scenes
Crime Scene to Court
Medical Forensics and Taphonomy
Drugs of Abuse

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

13% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,268.00 USD 20,951.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 81,122.00 USD 83,805.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesSecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Aristole Research Centre

Why Study BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Criminology with Foundation Year at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Criminology with Foundation Year at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For admission, international students need an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual section below 5.5. This includes listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as forensic scientists, crime scene analysts, fingerprint experts, or work alongside police officers and lawyers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This comprehensive undergraduate program combines forensic science skills with criminology knowledge, focusing on crime scene investigation and evidence analysis. It is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences and offers hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for the BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Criminology with Foundation Year is in September. Ensure you apply before the deadline to secure your spot in this program.
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