Forensic Science - Subject Guide

Single Honours 

• Forensic Science 

• Forensic Biology 

• Forensic Chemistry 

• Digital Forensics 

• Forensic Psychology 

Joint Honours 

• Forensic Science and Criminology 

• Biochemistry and Forensic Science 

• Forensic Science and Psychology 

• Computer Science and Forensic Science 

Alternative options 

• Foundation years: Foundation years provide a pathway to undergraduate enrolment for students interested in forensic science that don’t meet the entry requirements. 

• Sandwich degrees: A ‘sandwich’ year is usually taken between Years 2 and 3 of an undergraduate degree and provides an option to get a whole year of work experience before graduating, or the opportunity to study abroad. 

• Integrated Master’s: This degree extends an undergraduate course by one year, and results in a Master’s level qualification traditional postgraduate route. 

• Degree apprenticeships: Giving the option to combine academic study with practical work experience in forensic science, these three to six year programs provide a working wage on top of the fact that your employer pays for all tuition fees. 

FIND OUT MORE: Different types of undergraduate degree

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To pursue a degree in forensic science, a firm grounding in biology and chemistry is often mandatory, with many universities asking for either one or both subjects at A-level (or equivalent). Other preferred subjects may include mathematics, psychology and computer science. 

FIND OUT MORE: How to choose your A-level subjects

Forensic science is a wide-ranging field which contains elements of many subjects, such as chemistry, biology, law, psychology, statistics, and computer science. As such, there are many specialist areas within the profession.  

Some have more in common with data science, some are similar to biochemistry, and some are more within the sphere of criminology and legal work. However, they all deal with a different facet of the discipline. Specialised areas include: 

• DNA analysis: DNA analysis involves the analysis of genetic material, usually found at the scene of a crime, to identify individuals present or determine relationships. It's pivotal in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and identifying human remains. 

• Trace evidence analysis: Trace evidence analysis involves looking at microscopic materials like fibres, hairs, or tiny fragments of glass to link suspects to crime scenes or provide insights into unidentified objects. 

• Toxicology: Investigates the presence and effects of toxic substances, drugs, or chemicals in biological samples. This field is crucial in determining causes of death or assessing intoxication levels of individuals involved in crimes. 

• Digital forensics and cybercrime: In today’s information driven world, data is a key marker in unravelling the truth behind most major crimes. From mobile phone records to entire cybercrime networks, digital forensic professionals use technical skills to combat hacking, fraud, and data breaches. 

• Forensic psychology: The application of psychological principles can help to assess the mental state of individuals in a criminal case, evaluate criminal behaviour, or provide expert testimony in court cases involving mental health.

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• Crime scene investigation 

• Forensic laboratory techniques 

• Ethical hacking 

• Forensic pathology 

• Probability and statistics 

• Criminal law 

• Courtroom procedures 

• Crime preventions methods 

Studying forensic science provides a hands-on education into the behind-the-scenes work involved in criminal cases. You’ll learn how to analyse crime scenes, preserve evidence, and conduct scientific experiments to support criminal investigations.  

You’ll also learn how to model data and understand the statistics behind case-building methods, as well as learning how to present your work in a legal scenario with respect to correct courtroom procedures.  

Additionally, you’ll learn a repertoire of transferable skills, such as: 

These skills include: 

• Scientific reasoning 

• Problem solving 

• Teamwork 

• Report writing 

• Attention to detail 

In the UK, forensic science degrees may be accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences or the Royal Society of Chemistry. 

If you’re interested in forensic science but also want to explore alternative options, here is a selection of subjects which have a significant crossover with forensic science. You may find that if you’re interested in a particular aspect of the course, these alternatives might give you more of what you want. 

• Criminology 

• Biomedical science 

• Chemistry 

• Computer forensics 

• Psychology 

You can pursue careers in a wide range of workplaces with a forensic science degree, from labs to law enforcement agencies and more. You’ll be able to specialise in certain areas, which can include on-the-scene investigative work, digital forensic analysis, or even in a more legally-focused role in courtrooms and consulting firms. 

Graduates can pursue careers such as: 

• Forensic scientist 

• Crime scene investigator 

• Forensic DNA analyst 

• Toxicologist 

• Digital forensics analyst 

• Forensic psychologist  

• Police officer 

These are just a few of the most common job roles. You'll find plenty of other options available to you, and you can also continue your studies by completing a postgraduate degree in forensic science or a related subject. 

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