COURSE CURRICULUM

The Criminal Justice and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) degree is structured over four years to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. In Year 1, students are introduced to criminal behaviour, criminal law, and the justice system, alongside foundational forensic science topics such as drugs, fingerprint analysis, and crime scene investigation. Practical laboratory work plays a key role, with activities including microscopy, biochemical testing, and mock court exercises, helping students develop essential transferable skills. In Year 2, students deepen their understanding of policing and contemporary crime issues while advancing their scientific knowledge in areas like DNA analysis, statistical evaluation of evidence, and laboratory techniques. Year 3 focuses on developing advanced crime scene investigation skills, including evidence recovery, contamination prevention, and drug analysis, alongside studies of policing, prisons, and penology. Students also benefit from guest lectures, group work, and may undertake a 12-month work placement to gain industry experience. In Year 4, learning becomes highly specialized, with advanced modules on evidence analysis and crime scene investigation, culminating in a major practical investigation and mock court presentation. A significant component is an independent research project, supported by modern computing tools and forensic software, preparing students for professional roles.