Forensic Science with Criminology (Extended), BSc Hons at University of Greenwich

Examine crime from many perspectives with our extended forensic science with criminology degree. Entry points are lower than for our standard BSc and an extra year will boost your study skills.

Our extended degree in forensic science with criminology covers subjects such as biology and physiology, forensic geoscience, and chemistry for life science. You'll also study modules in criminology, including policing, violence in society and the psychology of terrorism. Hands-on study includes sessions held in the lab and at mock crime scenes.

The course begins with a foundation year to get you ready for degree-level learning. You'll then study the same modules offered on our three-year course.

In the Complete University Guide 2019, we're ranked in the top 10 universities in the UK for forensic science. The course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the professional body for forensic science worldwide.

What you should know about this course

•  This four-year course is identical to the three-year one, but has a foundation year with lower entry requirements
•  If you have the ability but not the qualifications, this course is your first step to graduation
•  The foundation year includes academic writing, computing skills, introduction to the subject and more.

Careers and placements

Will I have a work placement?

Students go to a range of companies and organisations of varying sizes for their placements, including large multi-national firms, government agencies, the NHS and small to medium sized companies engaged in research, analytical services and manufacturing (for Engineering include civil engineering and construction companies). 

• Previous students have worked in: Eon, Dyson, ADEY, PS Analytical and E-liquids, GSK, NHS hospitals.
• IAESTE (British Council) placements to Brazil, Dubai and Poland.
• We have a dedicated team to search for and inform students about relevant opportunities and help students prepare for interviews.

How long is my placement?

Students can undertake a summer placement for between 6 weeks to a maximum of 3 months which can be related to a credit rated course at level 6, or can be undertaken for work experience, acknowledged by a Certificate of Industrial Experience. Students are also encouraged to apply for sandwich placements lasting between 9-12 months which sit between the second and third year of the degree.

What are the financial arrangements?

The Faculty expectation is that students are as far as possible treated like other employees of the company or organisation. It is expected that students on sandwich placements will be paid throughout their time with the company. In some cases, students on summer placements have had expenses only covered by the company. Students on sandwich placements are required to pay a reduced fee to the University for their placement year.

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

Potential career opportunities exist in forensic science and criminal justice, and more broadly in management, communications and the wider pharmaceutical, chemical and biological science sectors.

Are internships available?

Interns can gain valuable employment experience within the faculty – subject to resources. Personal tutors will be able to advise students on where to access course internships.

Do you provide employability services?

We have a team dedicated to enhancing student employment outcomes. We have an Employer Partnerships Manager developing relationships with companies to provide placement and employment opportunities. Other members of the team focus on helping students to develop their knowledge of job markets, production of effective CVs, cover letters and application forms, understanding HR selection processes, preparing final year students for graduate job applications and applying for placements. Visit our Employability & Careers Service pages.