FdSc Forensic Science at Nottingham Trent University

This course is ideal for those with an enquiring mind, a deep interest in science and a curiosity about how and why things happen. You will develop the ability to judge the importance of physical evidence based on incident scene observation and the results of laboratory tests.

Studying a Forensic Science degree will enable you to:

• understand crime scene science
• use case studies to highlight the range of approaches required in forensic investigations as well as analytical instruments, microscopy and the English legal system
• find out how the acquisition of crime scene evidence is studied as well as genetic identification.

What you'll study

As well as considering the underpinning scientific knowledge, you'll develop legal, biological and chemical analysis skills applicable to the subject.

Upon completion you can enrol on the second year of NTU's BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science and gain an honours degree within an extra two years.

A fast-track option also exists. Students who perform well in Year One will normally be offered the opportunity to transfer directly into the second year of the BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science.

Who will teach me?

The forensics team is comprised of academic and support staff that are subject experts in forensic science, legal issues and crime scene investigation. Many of our staff have had relevant industrial and other external forensics experience and training.

Careers and employability

Your career development

Most FdSc Forensic Science students continue studying to BSc level. Alternatively, you'll be well suited to work in a laboratory environment for a forensic service provider or in education.

Employers in the fields of chemistry, biology and physics as well as forensic science highly value graduates with a strong background in:

• scientific investigation
• the reconstruction of events
• the presentation of findings.

These skills are invaluable for careers in:

• forensic science
• law enforcement (for example, the police, Customs and Excise, immigration and fraud investigation)
• academic research.

Our recent forensic science graduates have gone onto the following careers:

• Derbyshire Constabulary – forensic services assistant
• De Montfort University – microbiology lab technician
• Reckett Benckiser – analytical assistant
• Nottinghamshire Police – police constable
• Harlan Sera Limited – laboratory technician
• Boots – pharmacy development analyst
• Premier Analytical Services – microscopist
• Surrey Police – intelligence processing assistant
• Nanosight – particle physicist.