Available in Clearing
Gain hands-on experience and be taught by industry experts in anatomy, toxicology, drug analysis, pathology and DNA profiling.
Through laboratory work and real-world casework, you’ll develop the critical thinking and practical skills needed for crime scene investigation, forensic analysis, and presenting evidence in realistic mock courtrooms.
Together with our excellent links with local police forces, forensic laboratories and analytical organisations, you’ll graduate ready for a range of dynamic careers such as Forensic Scientist, Analytical Scientist, Criminal Investigator and more.
This course is accredited by
About this course
Forensic science is one of the fastest growing sectors, and is more than just solving crimes - it’s about applying cutting-edge biology, chemistry, and analytical techniques to uncover the truth.
As an accredited programme, you will gain theoretical and practical expertise aligned with industry standards, including forensic laboratory procedures and UKAS-accredited environments. Recognised by employers as a mark of excellence, it may also offer exemptions from further professional qualifications.
You will develop transferable skills such as analytical thinking, the ability to communicate and present findings, teamwork and leadership, as well as your capability to tackle complex scientific problems with confidence. And you’ll be able to work on career-inspiring projects, with recent examples of topics including the recovery of finger marks through glove polymers, investigating the use of eDNA, and the rate of organ decomposition.
You’ll benefit from the expertise of academics across the University and Hull York Medical School who are at the forefront of biomedical and health research – enabling you to develop the skills and expertise you need to become a leader in your chosen field of forensic science.
Our cutting edge facilities – including the Allam Medical Building, one of the UK’s leading healthcare training centres – enhances forensic pathology and anatomy teaching. You’ll have access to crime scene facilities, fully equipped analytical and biological laboratories, and a dedicated blood spatter analysis room to provide hands-on experience in reconstructing violent crime scenes. Plus, our mock courtrooms help to develop and practise expert witness skills.
As well as being mentored by our expert researchers and practitioners throughout, you can also tap into our strong links with Humberside Police, and benefit from hearing the experiences of guest speakers such as CSI Managers, DNA testers, forensic scientists - and those who have worked on high profile cases.
Become a true partner in crime investigation
Module options
Each year, you’ll study modules worth a certain number of credits, and you need 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits – so you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more. In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120. Some modules are compulsory, some are optional, so you can build a course that’s right for you.
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Preparing for Learning in Higher Education
This module is designed to give you the best possible start to your university studies, making sure you have all the essential skills you need to succeed. Through lectures and workshops we will teach you how to write in an academic style, how to find quality sources, and how to reference work, culminating in writing up a mini-research project.
core
20 credits
Group Challenge
In a group, you'll formulate questions that can be tested by scientific investigations and take part in weekly workshops with academics.
core
20 credits
Foundation in Data Analysis
Develop a strong foundation in data collection and analysis. This module will introduce you to qualitative and quantitative data and how to analyse it; the collection of primary and secondary data; the production of high-quality graphics; and report writing.
core
20 credits
Introduction to Biological Sciences 1
This module covers basic knowledge on cells and biological molecules and how they are connected to the function of major organ systems in animals, plants and humans. The main topics are cell structure, exchange and transport, the genetic code, microbiology and energy processes.
compulsory
20 credits
Foundation Chemistry
Develop the skills, knowledge and understanding of chemistry required for chemical engineering courses at an undergraduate level.
compulsory
20 credits
Foundation Maths Skills
This module delivers core mathematics skills at level two and three to give a solid basis for future studies. You will study the following topics: manipulation of numerical data and converting between different units of measurement; exponentials and logarithms; and standard form and problems involving ratio, proportion and percentages.
optional
20 credits
Foundation Mathematics A
You will study pure mathematics topics, including proof, algebra, trigonometry, differentiation, integration, exponentials, logarithms, sequences and series. The applied topic is probability and statistics.
optional
20 credits
Foundation Mathematics 1
This module delivers core mathematics skills to build a solid basis for future studies. You will study the following topics: factors, multiples, indices, fractions and standard form; algebra, linear and quadratic equations; averages and spread; functions, exponentials and logarithms; and right angled triangles and trigonometry.
optional
20 credits
Introduction to Forensic Science
Explore crime scene protocols and the techniques required to preserve evidence. Investigate foot and finger marks along with the fundamentals of trace, chemical, and biological evidence.
compulsory
20 credits
Get ahead in your career by going behind the scenes
Featured module- compulsory
- 20 credits
Ready to take your forensic science skills to criminally high levels? This module shows you how.
You’ll master techniques to examine and interpret evidence. From blood spatter to weapon analysis.
You'll gain hands-on experience in simulated crime scenes. Learning how to turn physical evidence into compelling courtroom testimony.
You’ll also explore the legal side of forensics, including the English Legal System and the role of the Forensic Science Regulator. With court skills training and anxiety management strategies, you'll build confidence in presenting findings in court.
By the end, you’ll have the practical skills and legal knowledge that set you apart in the competitive field of forensic science.
Our facilities
Watchlist
Professor Graham Williams
Course overview
3 mins
The Gold Standard for Teaching
University life
1 min
Life on campus
University life
2 mins
Our academics
You’ll be taught by internationally respected experts – including experienced forensic practitioners – using the most advanced concepts and methodologies.
Professor Graham Williams
Professor of Forensic Science/Programme Director
Graham began his career with the Forensic Science Service in London, as a Reporting Officer and Forensic Biologist. His areas of expertise include DNA profiling, body fluid evidence, clothing damage analysis, and bloodstain pattern analysis.
Dr Daniel Preece
Programme Director of BSc (Hons) Forensic Science, Lecturer In Forensic Science,
Daniel used to work as a forensic drug analyst, collaborating with the police on the analysis of drugs of abuse and drug-related evidence for criminal courts. He also worked within the virology and toxicological sector and for the NHS.
Entry Requirements
Fees & Funding
How much is it?
Future prospects
Gain the essential knowledge to become a competent and confident forensic scientist, and prepare yourself for a wide range of scientific careers with our Forensic Science degree.
You could pursue a career within the criminal justice system as a forensic scientist specialising in DNA, trace evidence, toxicology, or as a crime scene investigator or forensic laboratory analyst. You will also develop highly transferable skills, making you employable across various sectors, including academic research, commercial science, scientific sales, data analysis, and education, including teaching and tutoring – to name just a few potential career paths.
Graduates from our department have gone on to pursue diverse careers with employers such as ConocoPhillips, RB, the Civil Service, pharmacies, hospitals, the NHS, TeachFirst, the Yorkshire Wolds, chemical and biological laboratories, as well as forensic laboratories and the police.
Become part of the next generation of futuremakers
Like what you’ve seen? Then it’s time to apply.
The standard way to apply is through UCAS. This will give you the chance to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject, as well as providing us with your academic qualifications.
Not ready to apply yet?
Visit our next Open Day, and see all that Hull has to offer for yourself. Talk to our lecturers about your subject, find out what university is really like from our current students, and take a tour of our beautiful campus and amazing facilities.
You may also be interested in...
98.3% employability (Centre for Biomedicine) UK domicile full-time first degree leavers; Higher Education Graduate Outcomes statistics, for the academic year 2021/22, published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency June 2024.
Forensic Science is ranked 2nd in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction. Guardian University Rankings 2025
All modules on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.