BSc (Hons) in Forensic Investigation

Forensic Investigators produce evidence that can be used in a court of law. This programme will provide you with the knowledge and hands-on experience of scientific methods for the investigation and solving of crimes.

GCU has recently invested more than £1.5 million to create state-of-the-art chemistry and biology laboratories where students gain invaluable practical experience in using modern instruments, such as a DNA analyser, ultra powerful microscopes and mass spectrometers.

This programme provides you with a firm grasp of the theoretical and practical aspects of the chemical and biological sciences, with forensic staff consultancy casework discussed throughout. You will have the opportunity to spend up to a year at one of our partner institutions in Europe or the USA.

Graduates can be accepted as Associated Members of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), which is a step towards chartered chemist status.

Your career

Graduates have gone on to work in the chemical and biochemical analysis sectors, the environmental forensic area, forensic science, the police, food safety, teaching, pharmaceuticals and the oil and gas industry.

International student start dates

For new international students, orientation events start on 14 September 2018. This extra time is specifically designed to assist new international students in settling into the UK and GCU prior to the start of general student induction and teaching.

There will be a whole host of fun and informative activities taking place during this period, including campus and city tours, as well as welcome events where you can meet other international students.

Professional recognition

Graduates of this programme can be accepted as Associate Members of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) which is a step closer to chartered chemist status.

Study abroad

Students have the opportunity to spend up to one year at one of our partner institutions in Europe or the USA.

Assessment methods

Combination of unseen written examination, assessments and oral presentations. This distinctive programme marries a deep understanding of scientific principles coupled with a broad and varied educational approach, enhancing our student’s employment prospects, not only within the field of forensics but also in other areas. Many of our key staff are practising forensic experts, enhancing our students learning while Academic Development Tutors help develop generic skills such as report writing and exam techniques. The National Student Survey for 2012 gave 96% student satisfaction for Forensic Investigation.

Teaching methods

Our students have the chance to study abroad for all or part of Level Three with our partner institutions in Finland, Sweden and Canada with possible opportunities to study in the USA from 2012-13 onwards. As part of their Level Three assessment, our students take part in an industrial visit which enhances their knowledge of how industry operates and allow them to marry theory to practice. This Structured Industrial Practice Studies is undertaken in collaboration with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, with whom we have long links.