Forensic Investigation

Study options

Award

Key facts

UCAS code:
F412
UCAS code:
FM13
UCAS code:
F415
UCAS code:
8H16
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Location:
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Study option:
Full-time
Study option:
Full-time, with a foundation year
Study option:
Full-time, with a placement year
Study option:
Full-time
Duration:
3 Years
Duration:
4 Years
Duration:
4 Years
Duration:
4 Years
Start date:
23 September 2024

Outstanding Research Impact

87% of our research impact is recognised as “very considerable” or “outstanding" (Research Excellence Framework 2021)

Industry recognised

Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Excellent facilities

Including £30m Science Centre & Crime Scene House

Our Forensic Investigation degree gives you the skills required for a career with the police, forensic providers, or investigative and intelligence agencies.

Our Forensic Investigation degrees are ideal for those who have a strong interest in criminalistics, forensics, crime scene science and evidence analysis. We will equip you for a career working with the police, a forensic provider or any other investigative or intelligence agency, such as the Home Office, HM Customs and Excise.

Our industry standard facilities include a crime scene house, specialist laboratories and equipment to give you practical skills and knowledge for when you graduate.

The MSci course combines Bachelors-level and Masters-level study in one integrated programme, whilst the Foundation Year route is designed for students who may not have the academic profile to go straight onto the three-year programme. There is also the option to complete a placement year with our BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation with a Placement Year route. 

Our Forensic Investigation degrees are ideal for those who have a strong interest in criminalistics, forensics, crime scene science and evidence analysis. We will equip you for a career working with the police, a forensic provider or any other investigative or intelligence agency, such as the Home Office, HM Customs and Excise. Our industry standard facilities include a crime scene house, specialist laboratories and equipment to give you practical skills and knowledge for when you graduate.

The Foundation Year option is available for those who may not have the academic profile for direct entry onto the 3-year degree. It will prepare you for the Forensic Investigation degree by studying modules such as Crime in Context and Theories of Criminality.

The Foundation year is taught with the City of Stoke on Trent Sixth Form College, so you will be on the Staffordshire University Stoke on Trent campus and the college's campus for the first year. 

Our Forensic Investigation degrees are ideal for those who have a strong interest in criminalistics, forensics, crime scene science and evidence analysis. We will equip you for a career working with the police, a forensic provider or any other investigative or intelligence agency, such as the Home Office, HM Customs and Excise.

Our industry standard facilities include a crime scene house, specialist laboratories and equipment to give you practical skills and knowledge for when you graduate.

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation with a Placement Year has been designed to provide students with the opportunity to gain practical experience by taking a year-long placement in industry. The placement takes place between the second and final year of study.

Our Forensic Investigation degrees are ideal for those who have a strong interest in criminalistics, forensics, crime scene science and evidence analysis. We will equip you for a career working with the police, a forensic provider or any other investigative or intelligence agency, such as the Home Office, HM Customs and Excise.

Our industry standard facilities include a crime scene house, specialist laboratories and equipment to give you practical skills and knowledge for when you graduate.

The MSci course combines Bachelors-level and Masters-level study in one integrated programme. Students follow the same structure of study in years 1 to 3, but complete advanced modules and an integrated placement in their fourth and final year. 

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MSci Forensic Investigation

Work placements

If you choose to study Forensic Investigation with a Placement Year, you will complete a placement between the second and final years of the course. If you opt to study the MSci Forensic Investigation, then you will complete an integrated masters placement in your fourth year. Our placement staff will work with you to identify a suitable location for your work placement. Please also note that you are responsible for any costs incurred in travelling to and from your work placement, and for any accommodation costs.

Work placements

If you choose to transfer to the Placement Year route or MSci route after your foundation year, then you will have the opportunity to complete a placement. If you choose to study the Forensic Investigation with a Placement Year course, you will complete a placement after the third year of the course, whilst the MSci route has an integrated masters placement in the final (what would be the fifth) year.

Work placements

If you choose to study this Forensic Investigation with a Placement Year course, you will complete a placement between the second and final years of the course. Our placement staff will work with you to identify a suitable location for your work placement. Please also note that you are responsible for any costs incurred in travelling to and from your work placement, and for any accommodation costs.

Work placements

If you choose to study this MSci Forensic Investigation course, then you will complete an integrated masters placement in your fourth year. Our placement staff will work with you to identify a suitable location for your work placement. Please also note that you are responsible for any costs incurred in travelling to and from your work placement, and for any accommodation costs.

Course content

In Year 1, you will be introduced to Forensic Scientific Techniques, including Digital Evidence Processing and Crime Scene Processing.

During Year 2, You will enhance your investigative skills, analyse and interpret a range of criminalistic and biological evidence types and you will build on your Digital Evidence Processing knowledge with an advanced module. You will begin designing your final year research project and choose one option module, such as Firearm Investigation, Forensic Archaeology and Vehicle Collision Investigation.

In Year 3, our BSc (Hons) students put forensic knowledge into practice by working on simulated crime scenes, analysing the evidence and presenting in court as an Expert Witness. You’ll also complete your independent research project in a current forensic field

In Year 1, you will build on your academic skills by discussing the different Theories of Criminality and Crime in Context, as well as learning about the Principles of Law.

In Year 2, you will be introduced to Forensic Scientific Techniques, including Digital Evidence Processing and Crime Scene Processing.

During Year 3, You will enhance your investigative skills, analyse and interpret a range of criminalistic and biological evidence types and you will build on your Digital Evidence Processing knowledge with an advanced module. You will begin designing your final year research project and choose one option module, such as Firearm Investigation, Forensic Archaeology and Vehicle Collision Investigation.

In Year 4, our BSc (Hons) students put forensic knowledge into practice by working on simulated crime scenes, analysing the evidence and presenting in court as an Expert Witness. You’ll also complete your independent research project in a current forensic field

In Year 1, you will be introduced to Forensic Scientific Techniques, including Digital Evidence Processing and Crime Scene Processing.

During Year 2, You will enhance your investigative skills, analyse and interpret a range of criminalistic and biological evidence types and you will build on your Digital Evidence Processing knowledge with an advanced module. You will begin designing your final year research project and choose one option module, such as Firearm Investigation, Forensic Archaeology and Vehicle Collision Investigation. You will look for and apply for placement opportunities supported by the careers team and placements lead in the department.

Students successful in finding a placement will spend Year 3 on placement and will be visited by their University placement tutor.

In Year 4, our BSc (Hons) students put forensic knowledge into practice by working on simulated crime scenes, analysing the evidence and presenting in court as an Expert Witness. You’ll also complete your independent research project in a current forensic field

In Year 1, you will be introduced to Forensic Scientific Techniques, including Digital Evidence Processing and Crime Scene Processing.

During Year 2, You will enhance your investigative skills, analyse and interpret a range of criminalistic and biological evidence types and you will build on your Digital Evidence Processing knowledge with an advanced module. You will begin designing your final year research project and choose one option module, such as Firearm Investigation, Forensic Archaeology and Vehicle Collision Investigation.

In Year 3, our BSc (Hons) students put forensic knowledge into practice by working on simulated crime scenes, analysing the evidence and presenting in court as an Expert Witness. You’ll also complete your independent research project in a current forensic field.

In your final year as an MSci student, you will have the opportunity to work more independently through either a professional placement or a research assistantship. You will also study the advanced module on Statistical Approached in Forensics and choose between Policing Complexity and Cyber Crime, plus an additional option module (such as Environmental Forensics, or our Forensic Advice Clinic module).

Academic year

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 and 40 academic credits. 

All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 and 40 academic credits. 

All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 and 40 academic credits. 

All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for the course and your degree classification are based on the marks obtained for modules taken at levels 5 and 6.  The full-time course has one start point in September.

The course operates on a modular basis that provides flexibility and choice. Typically the majority of modules are 20 and 40 academic credits.

All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 480 credits for the degree as a whole. The course has one start point in September.

Professional body accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Professional body accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Professional body accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

Professional body accreditation

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences provides an accreditation system for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science and related topics. Accreditation is given provided the course content meets with the Society's component standards which provide a quality endorsement of the course.

The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences
Eve Henthorn - Student Experience

Eve Henthorn - Student Experience

Video

Eve Henthorn talks about her experience studying Forensic Investigation.

Sorry, this video requires the use of functional cookies which you have not consented to use. Change your cookie settings or watch the video on the provider's website

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Year 1 compulsory modules
Year 1 compulsory modules
Case Studies In Criminal Justice 20 credits
Crime Scene Processing 20 credits
Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Introduction To Forensic Scientific Techniques 20 credits
Policing Theory 20 credits
Show 3 optional modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Advanced Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Bodies Of Evidence 20 credits
Designing Research Projects 20 credits
Investigative Skills 20 credits
Marks And Traces 20 credits
Show 5 optional modules

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Year 0 compulsory modules
Year 0 compulsory modules
Academic Skills 20 credits
Crime In Context 20 credits
Introduction To Critical Thinking And Argument 20 credits
Sociology Of Crime 20 credits
Theories Of Criminality And An Introduction From Crime Scene To Courtroom 40 credits
Year 1 compulsory modules
Year 1 compulsory modules
Case Studies In Criminal Justice 20 credits
Crime Scene Processing 20 credits
Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Introduction To Forensic Scientific Techniques 20 credits
Policing Theory 20 credits
Show 3 optional modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Advanced Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Bodies Of Evidence 20 credits
Designing Research Projects 20 credits
Investigative Skills 20 credits
Marks And Traces 20 credits
Show 5 optional modules

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Year 1 compulsory modules
Year 1 compulsory modules
Case Studies In Criminal Justice 20 credits
Crime Scene Processing 20 credits
Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Introduction To Forensic Scientific Techniques 20 credits
Policing Theory 20 credits
Show 3 optional modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Advanced Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Bodies Of Evidence 20 credits
Designing Research Projects 20 credits
Investigative Skills 20 credits
Marks And Traces 20 credits
Show 5 optional modules

Modules

The tables provide an indicative list of the modules that make up the course for the current academic year. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run we will advise you as soon as possible and will provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.

Year 1 compulsory modules
Year 1 compulsory modules
Case Studies In Criminal Justice 20 credits
Crime Scene Processing 20 credits
Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Introduction To Forensic Scientific Techniques 20 credits
Policing Theory 20 credits
Show 3 optional modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Year 2 compulsory modules
Advanced Digital Evidence Processing 20 credits
Bodies Of Evidence 20 credits
Designing Research Projects 20 credits
Investigative Skills 20 credits
Marks And Traces 20 credits
Show 5 optional modules
Year 4 compulsory modules
Year 4 compulsory modules
Integrated Masters Placement 60 credits
Statistical Approaches To Forensics 20 credits
Show 3 optional modules

Entry requirements

Typical UCAS Offer: 112 points 

112-120 UCAS Tariff points

  • GCE A Levels - grades BBC or equivalent
  • Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma - grade DMM
  • Access to HE Diploma - Pass Access with a minimum of 80 UCAS tariff points. Applicants to Staffs who are taking the Access to HE Diploma receive a reduced tariff point offer as part of our access and participation plan activity
  • UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma - grade of Merit overall
  • OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - grade DMM
  • T Levels - Eligible T Level applications will be asked to achieve a minimum overall grade of P (A*-C) or Higher Pass as a condition of offer

Typical UCAS Offer: 48 points

  • A levels: A, DD, EEE
  • BTEC: PPP

Typical UCAS Offer: 112 points 

112-120 UCAS Tariff points

  • GCE A Levels - grades BBC or equivalent
  • Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma - grade DMM
  • Access to HE Diploma - Pass Access with a minimum of 80 UCAS tariff points. Applicants to Staffs who are taking the Access to HE Diploma receive a reduced tariff point offer as part of our access and participation plan activity
  • UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma - grade of Merit overall
  • OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - grade DMM
  • T Levels - Eligible T Level applications will be asked to achieve a minimum overall grade of P (A*-C) or Higher Pass as a condition of offer

Typical UCAS Offer: 120 points

  • A levels: ABC
  • BTEC: DDM

We understand that you might have experienced a challenging run up to higher education and may have not met the entry requirements as listed. If this is the case don’t worry, contact us and our team of expert advisors can guide you through the next stages of application, or help you find the perfect course for your needs.

Jack Stone - Student Experience

Jack Stone - Student Experience

Video

Jack Stone speaks about his experience on our Forensic Investigation course.

Sorry, this video requires the use of functional cookies which you have not consented to use. Change your cookie settings or watch the video on the provider's website

For equivalent entry requirements in your home country, please see the information on our country pages.

Choose your country

Check our entry and English language requirements for your country.

GO

Facilities

Careers

Graduates from our BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation degree have progressed onto careers as crime scene officers, police officers, prison officers, intelligence research officers, laboratory analysts, fraud investigators, digital forensic examiners, teachers, forensic technicians and fingerprint analysts.

Forensic Investigation

Forensic Investigation

Video

Dr Jo Turner gives an introduction to the Forensic Investigation course

Sorry, this video requires the use of functional cookies which you have not consented to use. Change your cookie settings or watch the video on the provider's website

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

Assessment

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Your course will provide you with opportunities to test your understanding of your subject informally before you complete the formal assessments that count towards your final mark. Each module normally includes practice or ‘formative’ assessments, for which you receive feedback from your tutor. Practice assessments are developmental and any grades you receive for them do not count towards your module mark. There is a formal or ‘summative’ assessment at the end of each module. This includes a range of coursework assessments, such as essays, reports, portfolios, performance, presentations, final year, independent project and written examinations. The grades from formal assessments count towards your module mark.

Learning support

In addition to the excellent support you will receive from your course teaching team, our central Academic Skills team provides group and one-to-one help to support your learning in a number of areas. These include study skills (including reading, note-taking and presentation skills); written English (including punctuation and grammatical accuracy); academic writing (including how to reference); research skills; critical thinking and understanding arguments; and revision, assessment and examination skills (including time management).

Additional support

Our Student Inclusion Services support students with additional needs such as sensory impairment, or learning difficulties such as dyslexia.

Feedback

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Examination feedback may take a variety of formats. However, as a minimum, generic feedback will be made available to all students who take written examinations.

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. A typical composition of study time for this course is:

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. A typical composition of study time for this course is:

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. A typical composition of study time for this course is:

Your study time will consist of class contact hours, self-directed learning, assessment and placements where appropriate. Your actual contact hours will depend on the subject area, on the option modules you select and professional body requirements. A typical composition of study time for this course is:

Year 1

27% of time in lectures, seminars or similar
73% of time in independent study
0% of time in work based learning

Year 2

29% of time in lectures, seminars or similar
71% of time in independent study
0% of time in work based learning

Year 3

11% of time in lectures, seminars or similar
89% of time in independent study
0% of time in work based learning

Independent learning

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and laboratory practicals. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups of around 16-18 students. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor at least twice a year. You will be taught in first-class learning spaces throughout your course. Many of our courses are accredited or recognised by professional, statutory or regulatory bodies.

Year 1

18% practical assessments
73% coursework
9% written exams

Year 2

18% practical assessments
73% coursework
8% written exams

Year 3

19% practical assessments
81% coursework
0% written exams

Staff

You will be taught by an expert teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. The team includes senior academics and professional practitioners with industry experience. Postgraduate research students who have undertaken teaching training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.

Your tutors are experienced practitioners who will bring real-life experiences to your learning using the most up-to-date skills and technologies.

Dean Northfield

Senior Lecturer

Dean worked for West Yorkshire Police as a VIPER Officer (2 Years) then an Imaging Officer (6 years). He progressed to Senior Imaging Officer, before finishing his time at West Yorkshire Police in the Forensic Multimedia Unit

Dean's profile

Dr Duncan Parker

Course Director

Duncan Parker joined the university in 2017 as a lecturer in Chemistry, teaching on the Forensic Science degrees. He is now Course Leader for Forensic Science and Course Director for Forensic Science and Investigation.

Duncan's profile

Rachel Bolton-King

Visiting Fellow

I am an Associate Professor (Tef) and I specialise in forensic firearm identification and ammunition, ballistics imaging, and shooting incident reconstruction.

Rachel's profile

Dr Claire Gwinnett

Professor

I am a Professor in Forensic and Environmental Science. I specialise in forensic fibres analysis, mircoplastics and plastic pollution, hair analysis, paint analysis and glass analysis.

Claire's profile

Dr Abdulrahman Oleiwi

Senior Lecturer

Abdulrahman is a lecturer in forensic genetics and forensic biology. He joined Staffordshire University in 2019 within the school of Law, Policing and Forensics and lectures at all levels on Forensic Biology and DNA Profiling.

Abdulrahman's profile

Dr Laura Walton-Williams

Director Of Enterprise Edu Ass Professor

Laura has been a lecturer at Staffordshire University since 2004. Actively involved in research in forensic science, she also conducts consultancy in the examination of evidence of a biological origin. Laura's areas of expertise include DNA an…

Laura's profile

David Flatman-Fairs

Senior Lecturer

David has been a lecturer at Staffordshire University since 2002, and is now Course Leader for Forensic Investigation. His expertise are in Chemical Analysis, Criminalistic Methods and Crime Scene Processing.

David's profile

Dr Sarah Fieldhouse

Associate Professor

I am a Senior Lecturer and I specialise in fingerprints and their use as forensic evidence.

Sarah's profile

Dr Neil Lamont

Senior Lecturer

Neil's expertise is in analytical chemistry developed in the area of environmental science. He is module leader for Basic Chemical Concepts, Vehicle Collision Investigation and Environmental Forensics and is a member of the Royal Society of Chem…

Neil's profile

Dr Kirsty Squires

Associate Professor

Kirsty is an Associate Professor of Bioarchaeology and primarily teaches in the areas of human osteology and statistical methods. Her research focuses on the analysis of cremated human bone from archaeological and forensic contexts

Kirsty's profile

Dr John Wheeler

Associate Dean - Students

John, Associate Dean, oversees students' education, covering teaching, learning, assessment, student experience, and employability. He focuses on bridging the gap between the workplace and university to enhance learning.

John's profile

Fees

For the course starting on 23 September 2024 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for BSc (Hons)-Full-time
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 per year of study £16,750 per year of study

For the course starting on 23 September 2024 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for BSc (Hons) Full-time, with a foundation year
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 for your first year subsequent years will be charged at the University standard rate £16,750 for your first year subsequent years will be charged at the University standard rate

For the course starting on 23 September 2024 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for BSc (Hons) Full-time, with a placement year
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 per year of study £16,750 per year of study

For the course starting on 23 September 2024 the tuition fees are:

Tuition fees for MSci Full-time
Study option UK / Channel Islands International
Full-time £9,250 per year of study £16,750 per year of study

UK and Channel Island students: This tuition fee is agreed subject to UK government policy and parliamentary regulation. If the UK government passes appropriate legislation, the fee for subsequent years of study may increase in each academic year. But this increase will not exceed the rate of inflation as measured by RPIX**. Any change in fees will apply to both new and continuing students. The University will notify students of any change as early as possible. Further information about fee changes would be posted on the University’s website once this becomes available.

**RPIX is a measure of inflation equivalent to all the items in the Retail Price Index (RPI) excluding mortgage interest payments.

International students: Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course, as long as you complete it in the normal time-frame (i.e. no repeat years or breaks in study).

Included in tuition fees
Included in the fees:
  • As a Staffordshire University student, you’ll be entitled to a range of free software programs.
  • The use of all specialist technical facilities and hire of equipment relating to the course of study.
  • PPE, including lab coat, provided for duration of course.
  • As a Staffordshire University student, you’ll be entitled to a range of free software programs.
  • The use of all specialist technical facilities and hire of equipment relating to the course of study.
  • PPE, including lab coat, provided for duration of course.
  • As a Staffordshire University student, you’ll be entitled to a range of free software programs.
  • The use of all specialist technical facilities and hire of equipment relating to the course of study.
  • PPE, including lab coat, provided for duration of course.
  • As a Staffordshire University student, you’ll be entitled to a range of free software programs.
  • The use of all specialist technical facilities and hire of equipment relating to the course of study.
  • PPE, including lab coat, provided for duration of course.
Not included in tuition fees
Not included in the fees:
  • Text books are available from the library, but some students choose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from any placements
  • Clothing suitable for any placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips
  • Text books are available from the library, but some students choose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from any placements
  • Clothing suitable for any placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips
  • Text books are available from the library, but some students choose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from any placements
  • Clothing suitable for any placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips
  • Text books are available from the library, but some students choose to purchase their own copies.
  • Printing
  • Travel costs to and from any placements
  • Clothing suitable for any placements and facilities
  • Any optional field trips
Accommodation and living costs
Accommodation and living costs

Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

For more information on accommodation and living costs, please see: Accommodation

Sources of financial support

If you receive funding from Student Finance you may be eligible to apply for additional benefits. Details can be obtained by reading our additional funding web pages, or visiting www.gov.uk

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Scholarships and additional funding

As an undergraduate student at Staffordshire, you may be eligible for additional financial support through one of our scholarships and bursaries. You can visit our funding page to find out more and check your eligibility.

Our students

The best part of my experience at Staffs Uni has been the opportunities

The best part of my experience at Staffs Uni has been the opportunities that I have gained through their drive to increase your employability with networking confidence building workshops. I have been able to have experiences such as spending a month in America on a placement with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation within the post mortem laboratory and death investigation unit, as well as attending 2 global DNA and Forensic Pathology conferences.

Danielle Chew

Forensic Investigation

I looked at the course modules online, I was impressed by all the content that would be covered throughout the years and by all the facilities that we would use as part of the course. The thing that made me decide to come to Staffs Uni was the atmosphere on campus that I experienced during an open day, and how competent but also very friendly and helpful the staff members are.    

Emma Baldacci

Forensic Investigation

I knew that the course which Staffordshire University was offering would open many doors, as I was impressed with the extensive list of contacts. Furthermore, the university has a TEF Gold, which gave me confidence that the quality of teaching would be beneficial for my future.

I can confidently say that coming to University has been the best life choice I have ever made. I have met so many amazing people and the course is pushing me to reach my potential and allowing me to form goals for the future.

Sian Hill

Forensic Investigation

The course has been a highlight of my experience, with some interesting topics and guest lectures coming, we have been given so many skills and opportunities to help us in our future careers and the support we receive has been exceptional.

Since being at University I have decided a policing career is most appealing to me and studying my degree has helped me achieve an interview with London Metropolitan Police.

Kayleigh Evans

Forensic Investigation

This course has helped my future employability as we are continuously taught how to strategically deal with evidence and how to correctly package and label them. This is so important within forensics. You get lots of hands-on experience with mock crime scenes and develop so many new skills to help you in the future.

Lucy Kitchen

Forensic Investigation

No other university I had applied to had the strong links that Staffordshire University had.

With my future career goal in mind, the links that the University has with Staffordshire Police really appealed to me and ended up being another reason that I chose the university. No other university I had applied to had the strong links that Staffordshire University had already established.

Sarah Hartley

MSci Forensic Investigation

Studying Forensic Investigation at Staffs gave me back my confidence and opened so many doors.

Studying Forensic Investigation at Staffs gave me back my confidence and opened so many doors.

The combined knowledge of the staff as well as the opportunities for hands on learning in the labs and the crime scene house gave me the foundations to begin my dream career.

Nadine Jones

Forensic Investigation Graduate

The confidence the lectures give you as a student is amazing.

Within my time at Staffordshire University I have had many opportunities which have aided me education and helped me grow as a person. The confidence the lectures give you as a student is amazing, they are incredibly encouraging and approachable.

Kirsty Chevannes

Forensic Investigation Graduate

The specialist crime scene house facility made the whole experience more realistic and allowed me to put my forensic science knowledge into practice in a simulated crime scene.

Kayleigh Sheppard

Forensic Investigation Graduate

Apply

Location Award Study option Start date Apply Link
Stoke-on-Trent campus BSc (Hons) Full-time 23 September 2024 Apply now

Rules and regulations

If you are offered a place at Staffordshire University, your offer will be subject to our rules, regulations and enrolment conditions, which may vary from time to time.

Students of Staffordshire University enter into a contract with us and are bound by these rules and regulations, which are subject to change. For more information, please see: University Policies and Regulations.

Information from discover uni

Have you considered?

Professional Policing BSc (Hons)

Study options
Full-time
Foundation year

Forensic Science BSc (Hons)/ MSci

Study options
Full-time
Foundation year
Placement year
Integrated Masters

Policing and Criminal Investigation BSc (Hons)

Study options
Full-time
Foundation year
Placement year
in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021