Criminology and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) with a placement year

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

Course Overview

The Criminology and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) at the University of Northumbria Newcastle provides you with a robust understanding of criminal behaviour and the scientific methods used to investigate crime. This undergraduate degree is ideal if you are fascinated by the complexities of the justice system and the application of forensic science. You will explore core concepts in criminology, such as crime myths and realities, alongside essential forensic science techniques like DNA profiling and toxicology. This programme is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, ensuring you gain industry-recognised skills.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, this course offers a comprehensive learning experience. You will develop practical forensic skills through hands-on laboratory work and delve into criminological theories, exploring topics from body fluids analysis to the criminal justice system. A distinctive feature is the optional industrial placement year, allowing you to gain invaluable professional experience. You will graduate with the ability to conduct complex casework and advanced forensic investigations, preparing you for diverse career paths in forensic science, law enforcement, and criminal justice.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) program offers a comprehensive exploration of criminology and forensic science. You will develop practical forensic skills alongside a foundational understanding of biology and chemistry, while also delving into the explanations, myths, and realities of crime. The curriculum progresses to cover advanced topics such as DNA profiling, toxicology, and various theoretical perspectives in criminology, with opportunities for specialization in areas like sex work or drug-related crime. The final year emphasizes complex casework, advanced investigation techniques, and culminates in an interdisciplinary dissertation, with a wide array of optional modules allowing for further focused study.

1 Year One

Practical Skills in Forensic Science Core
Process and Practices in Forensic Science Core
Fundamentals of Biology and Chemistry Core
Explaining Crime Core
Crime Myths and Realities Core
The Criminal Justice System 1 Core
Academic Language Skills for Applied Sciences Core – for International and EU students only

2 Year Two

Body Fluids and Blood Pattern Analysis Core
Drugs and Toxicology Core
DNA Profiling Core
Concepts, Perspectives and Theories in Criminology Core
Sex Work: Theory, Practice, Regulation Optional
The Criminal Justice System 2 Core
Drugs, Crime and Society Optional

3 Year Three

Industrial Placement Year Optional

4 Year Four

Complex Casework Core
Advanced Forensic Investigation Core
Interdisciplinary Criminology and Forensic Science Dissertation Core
Contemporary Policing and Security Optional
Crime and Society in Newcastle and Amsterdam Optional
Crimes of the Powerful Optional
Mentally Disordered Offenders Optional
Crime, Animals and the Environment Optional
Understanding Extreme Violence Optional
Life after Crime Optional
Crime, Technology and Surveillance Optional
Social Harm Optional
Intimate Partner Violence Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

18% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,444.00 USD 22,456.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,456.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,456.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,456.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 85,814.00 USD 89,827.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 520.00 - USD 1,323.00
Food & Groceries USD 6,283.00 - USD 10,149.00
Transport USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,309.00
Utilities & Bills USD 3,496.00 - USD 6,976.00
Estimated Total USD 10,827.00 - USD 18,173.00

Living cost estimates are based on Newcastle City Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Blockchain & Emerging TechnologiesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesEducation Policy & AdministrationHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHealthcare Administration & ManagementNursing & Allied HealthProduct Management & UXRehabilitation & PhysiotherapyTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

EY

Ministry of Justice UK

NHS

NHS England

Newcastle University

Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV)

Why Study Criminology and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) with a placement year at University of Northumbria Newcastle

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Northumbria Newcastle 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 Criminology and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) with a placement year at University of Northumbria Newcastle

Can I work while studying?

You can work up to 20 hours per week during your studies and up to 40 hours during breaks. However, if you are on a part-time course with a Student visa, you cannot undertake any work.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

This course is accredited by Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.. You can verify details at https://www.csofs.org/.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you need an IELTS score of at least 6.0 overall, with no sub-score lower than 5.5. This includes listening, reading, speaking, and writing components.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, law enforcement officers, criminal analysts, and research assistants.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree program explores the complexities of criminal behavior and the scientific techniques crucial for crime scene investigation. Key areas of study include the criminal justice system and crime theories, providing a comprehensive foundation for your future career.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Criminology and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) program has an intake in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️