Course summary

Why choose this course? This degree provides a detailed knowledge of numerous scientific disciplines and how they can be applied to investigate a wide range of crimes. It has been tailored to train students to become competent and skilled scientists, able to conduct the analysis of materials, interpret complex results, and present their evidence as expert witnesses. From sharp force trauma to spectra, from bones to bugs... Wrexham Glyndŵr University will prepare you for an exciting career in science. You will:

be trained in a wide variety of fields, including crime scene investigation, biology and chemistry

use our dedicated laboratories, crime scene house, and taphonomic facility (body farm) to test and hone your scientific skills

benefit from our long-term collaborations with partners including North Wales Police, companies specialising in areas such as search dog training and the analysis of human remains, as well as analytical companies that provide students with opportunities to perform frontier research and publish papers

take part in our annual real-time training exercise

Key course features:

Highly specialised facilities including a dedicated crime scene investigation house, located right on the campus, and the first, and only, licensed body farm in Wales for taphonomic study and research

Highly experienced, research and case active staff delivering hands-on practical session with modern laboratory equipment

Opportunities to attend a number of course-related trips and events including conferences in forensic science and eligibility for Student Membership of The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (additional costs apply)

Inclusive and supportive teaching with tutorial support available through the medium of Welsh

Established partnerships with a number of industries in the areas of forensic, chemical, analytical and materials science including collaboration with North Wales Police on research projects in forensic investigation

Modules

What you will study The course covers the three key elements of forensic science, namely: the search and recovery of evidence; biological (including DNA), chemical and physical analysis; and the presentation of evidence in court. The course is highly practical so you'll be equipped with all the skills you need for career development. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, student-led seminars and guided research. Independent learning is an important aspect of all modules, as it enables students to develop both their subject-specific and key skills. Independent learning is promoted through guided study or feedbacks given to students. YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4) Level 4 introduces a broad range of scientific knowledge and skills covering mathematics, statistics, biology and chemistry. You'll also be educated in the fundamentals of forensic science, criminal justice and crime scene investigation. Intensive practice in both labs and the crime scene house is an important part of this year. MODULES Cell Biology, Biochemistry and Genetics Introduction to Chemistry Essential Skills for the Life Sciences Maths and Statistics for Science Forensic Evidence and Criminal Justice Crime Scene Investigation YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5) Level 5 builds on and expands your portfolio of study, introducing skills in advanced instrumental analysis and contemporary knowledge in forensic biology and human identification workshops. Both hands-on experience and research methodology will be emphasised. MODULES Forensic Biology Analytical Methods in Applied Science Anatomy, Pathology and the Forensic Examination of Human Remains Instrumental Analysis Laboratory Instrumental Analysis Research Methods: Theory and Practice YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6) The final year leads students into specific areas of forensic science, including taphonomy (decomposition), drugs and toxicology, and presentation of evidence in court. You will carry out a research project in a field of your choice. MODULES Forensic Taphonomy Drugs and Toxicology Science in Court Forensic Investigation of Mass Fatalities Research Project The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Assessment method

Teaching & Assessment A broad range of assessment methods are used; these include task-based exercises, crime scene and courtroom scenarios, oral and poster presentations, essays and laboratory reports, and written exams. Each module is assessed by a variety of methods, enabling students to display their full potential. A project dissertation will form one of the final parts of your assessment. TEACHING AND LEARNING Wrexham Glyndŵr University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential. We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available. In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.

How to apply

31Jan

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Course code:: F412

Institution code:: G53

Campus name:: Wrexham

Campus code:: -

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3

International applicants

If you require a Student Visa (formerly referred to as Tier 4 visa) to study in the UK, please apply through Centurus at https://centurusone.com/apply/1111.

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

UCAS Tariff - 80 - 112 points

A level - CDD - BBC

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MMP - DMM

Access to HE Diploma

Scottish Higher

AS

Scottish Advanced Higher

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015)

Extended Project

Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)

Leaving Certificate - Ordinary Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)

Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal

Wrexham Glyndwr University takes into account a variety of qualifications and experience when considering applications to our programmes. If you are unsure if the qualifications you currently hold will be accepted for entry, or if you're not sure you'll achieve the required UCAS Tariff points, please contact us at [email protected] for further advice and guidance.

Student Outcomes

England	£9000	Year 1
Northern Ireland	£9000	Year 1
Scotland	£9000	Year 1
Wales	£9000	Year 1

Degree level: Undergraduate

Awarded by: Wrexham University (Prifysgol Wrecsam)

Forensic Science

Course options

Open days