Curious about studying Forensic Science (with Placement Year)at Anglia Ruskin University? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Cambridge Campus
Sandwich
Jan 2027
4 Year
A Forensic Science degree at ARU will teach you the principles of forensic science, from crime scene to court room. With a focus on chemical and biological analysis, you’ll find out what that evidence means. We look at ways to ‘read’ data, interpret the results and present your evidence in court. Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the professional body for forensic practitioners, meaning you'll have maximum opportunity to gain essential skills for a career in this field. Designed and led by an international, multidisciplinary teaching team with expertise in analytical chemistry, forensic anthropology, toxicology, forensic genetics and crime scene examination. Engage in innovative ‘Live Briefs’: take on real-world challenges and present modern solutions that directly impact and benefit prospective employers.Obtain hands-on experience working in forensic scenarios in our crime scene rooms and using the latest specialist equipment in our SuperLab, and gain courtroom experience during a mock court session. You’ll get hands-on with specialist analytical equipment, under the guidance of expert tutors. And you’ll learn outside the classroom too, with visits to law courts and a local mortuary, and opportunities to work with local police forces and forensic labs. You’ll also examine ‘real’ forensic samples including ignitable liquid residues, and trace evidence such as paint and fibres. Together, we’ll explore techniques including microscopy, microspectrophotometry, spectroscopy and chromatography; and get hands-on experience of specialist instruments for biological analysis. You’re free to book additional time with this equipment outside of lessons.
All forensic investigators require a strong grounding in science and in this module, you will be introduced to the basic scientific principles needed for the rest of your course and beyond. You will be introduced to the broad scientific disciplines within forensic science, including chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics. You will develop the analytical skills necessary to interpret forensic evidence and be able to apply scientific principles to forensic case studies. Your introduction to chemistry will include a discussion of the periodic table and properties of elements, atomic structure and chemical bonding. You will also be introduced to the basic principles of molecular biology, focussing on the polymerase chain reaction and short tandem repeats, and how these are used in forensic and investigative sciences. We will discuss the basic principles of biochemistry and human anatomy in the context of how biological evidence may be used in forensic cases. We will also look at the basic physical principles underlying blood spatter analysis. You will learn through a series of lectures and tutorials where you will apply your knowledge to real-world forensic situations and contexts. A significant practical element is included, so that you gain competence and confidence in performing basic laboratory techniques such as the use of micropipettes, microscopy, presumptive testing, and thin layer chromatography (TLC).
This will be achieved via a series of lectures and practical's carried out during the first academic year. In the first semester, you will focus on learning the basics of photography such as how to use a camera and the different functions i.e. flash, focus and depth of field. You will also cover the legislation surrounding recorded evidence and the procedure for handling, recording, storing and submission of photographic evidence. The skills adopted will underpin your ability to develop further understanding regarding the practical approaches to crime scene photography which are use both by crime scene officers and forensic scientists. It also provide a platform on which to build knowledge from other modules. Following photography you will then get into the topic of crime scene examination where you will learn about the procedures used for processing of a crime scene, the different types of evidence that can be encountered, their value and interpretation at the scene, how to recover, package appropriately to ensure integrity and continuity.
At Anglia Ruskin University we strive to ensure that you receive an outstanding academic education and student experience - and understand that, whilst embedding employability skills within the credit-bearing curriculum is important, it is only part of the set of achievements needed to obtain employment. This zero-credit module will be used to track and verify the progress you've made with respect to key employability skills and endeavours. You'll work closely with your personal tutor, Students' Union Volunteering Service, Study Skills Plus, and Faculty Employability Advisor to engage with co-curricular and extracurricular opportunities and activities to enhance your personal attributes.
The examination of most physical forensic evidence requires a knowledge of the characteristics of a wide range of materials. A forensic scientist has no way of predicting what evidential types will be available and/or significant when an investigation begins, so all criminalists require a basic knowledge of the main evidence types. Through a series of integrated lecture and practical sessions, you will learn the physical properties of the most common types of evidence encountered at crime scenes. You will develop the professionalism to determine when to seek more highly qualified or expert advice on the basis of 'if in doubt then do no harm'. You will focus on physical evidence, and will cover the basic principles of a forensic examination, the physical properties of documents, glass fragments (including fracture patterns and optical properties), paint, tool, tyre and footwear marks, soil and vegetation, and finger marks as well as other body prints. You will be taught via laboratory-based practical sessions and group work, enabling you to develop your teamwork as well as transferrable communication skills essential in a professional forensics laboratory.
Forensic science relies heavily on the analytical identification of substances. You will be introduced to some of the fundamental concepts of physics and chemistry used in forensic science, with a focus on chemical analysis and quantification. You will undertake basic chemical analysis and calculations with an emphasis on the acquisition of accurate and precise laboratory results demonstrating good laboratory practice. Examples will be drawn from throughout the forensic sciences. We will also be exploring chemical equilibria, energy transfer, thermodynamics, thermochemistry and kinetics. You will be therefore be able to explain why chemical changes occur, essential for later topics in the course. You will be taught by a range of methods, including lectures, tutorials and practical's, where you will use actual forensic samples which will enhance your competency in the laboratory and ability to interpret practical results. The tutorials will be focussed on problem solving based on the topics covered. You will also carry out laboratory competency-based tests to show your practical skills, awareness of good laboratory practice and avoidance of contamination. The employability skills you will develop include problem solving, data interpretation, communication, the ability to work in a group, time management and numeracy and literacy, all essential skills in a forensic scientist.
In this module you will look at the development of law across these different legal systems and exploring the Jury system and the investigation of crime in each. As a part of your learning you will apply legislation to real life case studies, giving you the chance to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios throughout this module. You will develop knowledge of the different powers of the police as well as the expected requirements of those working as CSIs (Crime Scene Investigators) or forensic scientists. You will develop an understanding of the laws of evidence as they relate to these roles as well as the codes of practice of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) or Procurator Fiscal. You will have the opportunity to visit the magistrates and crown court to observe how real-life trials are conducted within the UK, giving you a better understanding of the processes of criminal justice system during trials. Through examining previous cases you will develop critical thinking skills as well as the ability to read legislation. You will also develop communication skills through interactive tutorial sessions, and carry out debates within lectures.
Evidence at crime scenes can be composed of a wide variety of substances. Chemical criminalists therefore require knowledge of chemistry, sample preparation, analysis and results interpretation from the analysis of different evidence types such as greasy marks (e.g. cosmetics), fire debris, environmental samples, food samples, finger marks etc. We will cover the chemical analytical aspects of the forensic evidence examination in this module. We will also discuss the chemistry of arson accelerants and their chemical natures and explore the methods used for fire debris analysis. You will apply your theoretical knowledge in laboratory-based practical sessions where you will work in a small group, enabling you to work as a team and communicate with group members. You will therefore develop teamwork and communication skills, as well as enhanced laboratory skills, essential for forensic scientists but also applicable to any analytical role.
You will develop knowledge and gain experience of analysing "real" forensic science samples using a variety of chromatographic (Liquid and Gas Chromatography and relevant detectors including Mass spectrometry (MS) coupled techniques) and spectroscopic techniques (Inductively coupled plasma ? ICP) and ultraviolet (UV-Vis)). We will also review the underlying quality management principles that are involved in such analyses, to gain a better understanding of analytical data and its critique, and develop good laboratory practice. In addition, you will appreciate the challenges in the forensic chemical analysis market, including competency testing and method validation under the ISO 17025. Knowledge of the appropriate choice of analytical method, the results that are generated, and their interpretation, are central to forensic chemistry. You will be taught through lectures, problem-based tutorials, practical's, and revision sessions.
You will gain a detailed knowledge of the fundamental principles of forensic genetics in order to be able to analyse samples and determine their origin. You will be introduced to the relevant accreditation procedures for crime scenes and laboratory (International organisation for Standardisation ? including ISO 17020 and ISO 17025) and learn how to perform preliminary tests of biological fluids. You will carry out the full process of DNA analysis including: sample extraction, extraction, quantification, amplification, fragment analysis and data analysis through a series of interactive lectures, tutorials and practical sessions. You will also learn to apply the statistical interpretation of single source and mixed DNA profiles within a forensic context, including calculating match probability, likelihood ratios, and paternity indices, as well as how to prepare statements to be delivered in court. In addition to current DNA analytical methods such as using short tandem repeats (STRs) and DNA-17 profiling, you will also learn about other markers including mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), Y- chromosome STRs, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). You will also be introduced to the latest technologies and methods such as RNA analysis (messenger RNA, microRNA), DNA methylation, next generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics. The combination of theoretical and practical skills gained during the module are highly transferable for the forensic, clinical, and biological laboratory and other job opportunities.
Forensic scene examination builds on your knowledge of evidence recovery and packaging. You will gain hands-on experience of recovery of evidence in authentic crime scenes and will be exposed to a variety of volume (everyday) crime scenes that will build your confidence in recovery techniques. We will also discuss accreditation standards relevant to various roles within the crime and forensic fields. By enhancing your knowledge of quality and competency standards, you will be able to recognise how the issues around contamination determine the process of your examination. The recovery and processing of evidence relies on continuity and the integrity of each stage. As you progress through the module you will gain an understanding of how important the chain of evidence from the crime scene to the laboratory is. As well as the crime scene practical sessions, you will also discover the crucial value of evidence to any criminal case. You will complete Laboratory Submissions Forms to submit your evidence, providing your reasoning as to why this evidence will be submitted. For both the crime scene and laboratory submission aspects, you will focus on the correct recording of crime scenes using photography, sketching and contemporaneous note taking, maintaining continuity and integrity of your evidence. While developing your report writing skills, you will also gain further communication skills from working in small teams, organising and taking responsibility for all aspects of your evidence. You will be prepared for future employment with enhanced familiarity with crime scene processes, forensic and policing terminology, laboratory etiquette, and how the whole process fits within investigations.
You will develop an understanding of the different types of electromagnetic (EM) radiation and the analytical techniques that utilise EM radiation to excite samples in order to obtain qualitative information. You will learn the theory that underpins Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation (MALDI) mass spectrometry, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and other x-ray analysis techniques including X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Scanning Electron Microscopy Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). You will also learn about the design and configuration of the analytical instruments that are used. In addition, you will gain confidence in the interpretation of spectroscopic data. The taught sessions include lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions where students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of various spectroscopic instruments. The employability skills gained through this module include problem solving, self-management, critical thinking, communication, resilience, numeracy and application of IT. Together with the academic and practical skills gained, you will be equipped for a variety of careers including forensic science, analytical science and scientific research.
At Anglia Ruskin University we strive to ensure that you receive an outstanding academic education and student experience - and understand that, whilst embedding employability skills within the credit-bearing curriculum is important, it is only part of the set of achievements needed to obtain employment. This zero-credit module will be used to track and verify the progress you've made with respect to key employability skills and endeavours. You'll work closely with your personal tutor, Students' Union Volunteering Service, Study Skills Plus, and Faculty Employability Advisor to engage with co-curricular and extracurricular opportunities and activities to enhance your personal attributes.
Ruskin Modules are designed to prepare our students for a complex, challenging and changing future. These interdisciplinary modules provide the opportunity to further broaden your perspectives, develop your intellectual flexibility and creativity. You will work with others from different disciplines to enable you to reflect critically on the limitations of a single discipline to solve wider societal concerns. You will be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines to apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, seek and maximise opportunities to realise your potential to give you a distinctive edge and enhance your success in the workplace.
Your Work Placement module cover a period of 38 weeks. It's a pass/fail module which does not affect your progression from level 5 to level 6 of your course. If you started your course in September, you'll commence your placement at any point from 1 July to 30 September. If you started your course in January, you'll commence your placement at any point from 1 February to 31 March. The module is designed to give you an opportunity to analyse and evaluate industrial organisational structures, industrial roles and functions and industrial self-awareness. It covers human relationships, team relationships, problem evaluations, solutions and analysis and an evaluation of an industry/business sector. The aim of the module is to allow you to use the academic skills developed during your first two years of university study to support learning during your work placement. The module aims to give you experience of work in an industry and/or business environment including familiarisation with a professional work environment.
You will gain a detailed insight into the factors involved in the initiation and propagation of fires and explosions relating to vapours, liquids and solid fuels. You will also consider the various states and types of combustion and how different conditions cause progression and development through to a full compartment fire. Your knowledge will be contextualised and applied within fire and explosive investigation, including calculating explosive power, vapour/air mixes forming explosive mixtures, heat release rate and flux generated at different stages of fire progression and Investigation of fires and explosions is a crucial aspect of law enforcement. You will also explore possible cause and origin, physical evidence (smoke/soot patterns at a fire scene) and fire development. You will consider the types of explosives and their classification based on stimulus and explosive power, including those explosive used and developed by the military and also improvised explosives, Various aspects of explosive analysis will be explored as will the forensic approaches to investigating a complex explosive scene and the specialist laboratories involved.
The final year of your course, you will have learnt a wide variety of techniques. This module is designed to provide you with hands-on practical experience in analysing a crime scene with limited supervision, allowing you to appreciate the diversity of evidence available and understand the context in which you must operate as expert witnesses for your role in the analysis of the evidence. You will be presented with a simulated case and crime scene, and will be asked to work as part of an independent team conducting an investigation into the nature and interpretation of the evidence, and present the results in a moot court. The importance of impartiality will be stressed and tested during the moot court. You are expected to work within your team, fostering independent working and engaging with the specific roles and tasks that will have been set. You will be expected to critically evaluate the case and evidence at hand, plan and analyse relevant forensic evidence taking into consideration the various scientific techniques available, and prepare to present and defend your work and results in a simulated court setting. To prepare for this final stage, you will be encouraged to attend a court room session to get a feel for the settings and procedures.
In this respect forensic scientists have an important role to play both in the classification of drugs from seizures and the analysis of drugs in body fluids. You will be able to link these two important disciplines. Many of the techniques used for quantitative analysis of street drugs and toxicological specimens are identical; in both cases the definitive results arise from mass spectrometric determination. However you will discover that there are essential differences in the actual procedures used. The main focus of street drug analysis is on the processes used in drug identification and profiling. You will explore the materials that can be used, critically evaluating the processes and methodologies applied, and review the data generated and appraise the interpretations. Forensic toxicology combines the specialist areas of analytical chemistry and pathology. A forensic toxicologist detects and identifies foreign chemicals (toxins) in the body. In order to accurately interpret toxicological findings, it is essential that the toxicologist has an understanding of the pharmacology of that substance and the pathological effects it has on the body. You will explore both toxicological and drug profiling data in court presentations. You will have access to our digital library and suitable websites identified through our online learning system.
Forensic anthropology involves the analysis of skeletal remains to assist in the identification of victims of crimes or mass disasters. This is a global role, meaning that your learning could take you anywhere, applying your knowledge to criminal investigations and mass disasters. You will explore the processes involved in search, recovery and identification of human remains, considering the role of the anthropologist both at the crime scene and the mortuary. You will learn how the anthropologist works with other experts within the investigative framework, and cover both domestic and international applications - from single fatality investigations through to the use of anthropology during mass fatality incidents. You will enhance your knowledge of the complexity of forensic responses to major crimes, key to employment in forensic and investigative roles. You will discover the methods of archaeology and osteology and their application to forensic contexts, with an emphasis on basic principles and the critical application of techniques and their selection. A variety of resources will be available to you during the lectures and practical sessions, including our collection of human remains and anthropological teaching aids. We will also discuss case studies and peer reviewed articles.
Forensic pathology is a discipline of pathology concerned with the investigation of deaths where there are medico-legal implications, for example, suspected homicide and other complex medico-legal cases. Forensic pathologists are medically qualified doctors who perform autopsies on sudden, unexpected and suspicious deaths. The forensic investigation of death is a multi-disciplinary approach that involves collaboration between pathologists, crime scene investigators, forensic scientists and other experts in the forensic field. You will be introduced to the field of forensic pathology, which contributes to the investigation of suspicious death and identification of the deceased. We will cover the code of conduct and performance standards that are developed for forensic pathology.
You will create in a substantial piece of individual research and/or product development work, focused on a topic of your choice. You could choose your topic from a variety of sources including research groups, previous/current work experience, your current employer, a suggestion from your tutor or a topic you are specifically interested in. You will identify problems and issues, conduct literature reviews, evaluate information, investigate and adopt suitable development methodologies, determine solutions, develop hardware, software and/or media artifacts as appropriate, process data, critically appraise and present your finding using a variety of media. Regular meetings with your project supervisor will ensure your project is closely monitored and steered in the right direction.
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