Forensic chemistry is the application of scientific knowledge and investigation to law enforcement. From identifying substances to analyzing crime scenes, the skills of a forensic chemist often play a vital role in criminal investigations.
The course provides students with the opportunity to develop the skills of a professional forensic chemist, including laboratory examination, report writing, crime scene analysis, and courtroom presentation. With a broad spectrum of modules, it is possible to specialise in areas such as DNA analysis, biological chemistry, or nuclear forensics.
The School of Chemistry takes a research-centered approach to teaching and learning, and students have the chance to work closely with leading academics on collaborative research projects.
How You Study
The first year offers a solid foundation in chemistry, including laboratory work and mathematics and statistics, as well as the principles of forensic science and crime scene investigation. In their second year, students go on to explore advanced aspects of forensic chemistry and are introduced to key areas of advanced crime scene methods and trace evidence, before tailoring the course to match their interests with a range of modules in their third year.
The course includes lectures, seminars, laboratory-based practical classes, and lectures from visiting scientists.
Contact Hours
Contact hours vary by course and can take many forms, including lectures, seminars, and workshops. A full-time undergraduate student should expect to undertake a minimum of 37 hours of study each week during term-time, supplementing contact hours with independent study. This is an important aspect of university-level education. As a general rule, you will be expected to spend two to three hours working independently for every hour in class.
Methods of Assessment
The way in which you will be assessed will depend on your chosen course. It may include coursework, written and practical exams, portfolio development, group work, or presentations. A full breakdown of current assessment methods can be found on the individual course pages of this website. The University of Lincoln’s policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.
Modules
First Year
Core Chemistry 1.1: Introduction to Energy, Change and Electronic Structure (Core)
Core Chemistry 1.2: Molecular Structure, Bonding and Mechanism (Core)
Crime Scene Investigation (Core)
Introduction to Professional Practice (Core)
Practical Chemistry 1.1: Fundamental laboratory techniques (Core)
Practical Chemistry 1.2: Introduction to synthetic methodologies and molecular characterisation (Core)
Professional Practice 1.2: Forensic Laboratory Analysis (Core)
Second Year
Advanced Crime Scene Investigation (Core)
Core Chemistry 2.1: Stability, Structure and Mechanism in Molecular Systems (Core)
Core Chemistry 2.2: Chemistry of Activated Systems and Radicals (Core)
Practical Chemistry 2.1: Organic synthesis, purification and advanced characterisation (Core)
Practical Chemistry 2.2: Inorganic synthesis and structural methods (Core)
Professional Practice 2.2: Quality Assurance and Regulation (Core)
Trace Evidence (Core)
Third Year
Core Chemistry 3.1: Defining Shape, Symmetry and Stereochemistry (Core)
Core Chemistry 3.2: Heterogeneous Systems, Surfaces and Nanoscience (Core)
Drugs of Abuse and Forensic Toxicology (Core)
Practical Chemistry 3.1: Advanced techniques in IO-chemistry (Core)
Structured project (Core)
Biological Chemistry (Option)†
Fire, Explosives and Nuclear Forensics (Option)†
How You Are Assessed
The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that are used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports, or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances, or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. The weighting given to each assessment method may vary across each academic year. The University of Lincoln aims to ensure that staff return in-course assessments to students promptly.
Scholarships
For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships.
"The best thing about the programme was that it challenged me, kept me engaged, and had me always wanting to learn more."
Victoria Hugill, MChem Forensic Chemistry graduate
Entry Requirements 2021-22
United Kingdom
GCE Advanced Levels: BBC, to include a grade B from A Level Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall, with Higher Level Grade 5 in Chemistry.
BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science or Forensic Science*: Distinction, Merit, Merit. **not all modules are accepted. Please contact our Admissions team for further information (admissions@lincoln.ac.uk)
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points, including 40 points from 15 credits in Chemistry
Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.
International
Non-UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.
Teaching and Learning During Covid-19
At Lincoln, Covid-19 has encouraged us to review our practices and, as a result, to take the opportunity to find new ways to enhance the student experience. We have made changes to our teaching and learning approach and to our campus, to ensure that students and staff can enjoy a safe and positive learning experience. We will continue to follow Government guidance and work closely with the local Public Health experts as the situation progresses, and adapt our teaching and learning accordingly to keep our campus as safe as possible.
Accreditations and Memberships
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Through accreditation, the Royal Society of Chemistry aims to promote good practices in the university education of chemical scientists, and ensure that future practising scientists are knowledgeable and competent.
Features
Skills Development and Professional Practice
Our Chemistry courses have an embedded explicit skills development programme through the professional practice modules. The programme delivers a systematic programme in skills development, which includes CV writing and interview skills. The modules exemplify the application of chemistry into key employment sectors and present chemistry through an integrated approach.
Industry Challenges
A series of themed industry challenges are co-delivered during the professional practice modules through industry partnerships with multi-national and SME organisations representing the analytical, formulation, pharmaceutical, and energy and environmental sectors.
After systematic project planning and management training, students can devise and present technical proposals in response to the challenge. After consultation and feedback from a joint academic and industry panel, students can execute project plans and report within industry standard methods. The professional practice modules aim to prepare students for placements and future employment.
Placements
Students may have the opportunity to undertake placements. When students are on an optional placement in the UK or overseas or studying abroad, they will be required to cover their own transport and accommodation and meals costs.
Placements can range from a few weeks to a full year if students choose to undertake an optional sandwich year in industry (where available). Students are encouraged to obtain placements in industry independently. Tutors may provide support and advice to students who require it during this process.
Career Opportunities
Forensic Chemistry graduates can benefit from specialist skills and technical knowledge that are transferable to careers in chemistry, forensic laboratories, and law enforcement organisations, such as police forces, HMRC, and environmental health. Some graduates go on to study at postgraduate level.
