Forensic Chemistry

Forensic Chemistry at the University of Kent is a specialized undergraduate degree programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to apply chemistry in the investigation of crimes. This programme combines a solid foundation in core chemical principles with applied forensic techniques, enabling graduates to work effectively within crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, or related sectors. Students will explore areas such as analytical chemistry, toxicology, fingerprint analysis, trace evidence examination, and the latest forensic technologies. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, allowing students to develop practical skills in sample analysis, evidence handling, and data interpretation, which are essential for working accurately and ethically in forensic investigations. The programme also covers legal and ethical considerations relevant to forensic science, ensuring that graduates are prepared to operate within the criminal justice system. Throughout their studies, students will benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, including spectrometers, chromatographs, and forensic analysis tools. They will engage in comprehensive coursework, research projects, and opportunities for placements or collaborative projects with law enforcement agencies, providing real-world experience. The university's strong links with industry and professional bodies aim to support students' career development and facilitate networking opportunities. Graduates from the Forensic Chemistry programme will be well-positioned to pursue careers in forensic laboratories, criminal justice, environmental agencies, or advanced study and research in forensic or analytical chemistry. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, attention to detail, and ethical practice, preparing students not only for immediate employment but also for lifelong learning in rapidly evolving scientific fields.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

CH308 - Molecules Matter & Energy

CH309 - Fundamental Chemistry for Physical Scientists and Bioscientists

CH314 - Introduction to Biochemistry and Drug Chemistry

PS301 - Introduction to Forensic Science

PS318 - Skills for Forensic Scientists

PS324 - Introduction to Ballistics

PS381 - Chemical Skills For Forensic Scientists

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

PS501 - Forensic Physical Methods

PS508 - Inorganic and Materials Chemistry

PS512 - Numerical, Statistical and Analytical Skills

CH504 - Organic Reaction Mechanisms

CH506 - Chemical Identification Techniques

CH530 - Polymeric and Organic Materials

CH533 - Materials and Solid State Chemistry

LW562 - Criminal Law for Forensic Scientists

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

LW573 - Law of Evidence for Forensic Scientists

PS720 - Advanced Forensic Project Laboratory

PS701 - Topics in Functional Materials

PS712 - Advanced Topics in Forensic Science

CH604 - Analytical Chemistry

PS601 - Fires and Explosions

PS602 - Forensic Expert Witness Skills

Stage 4

Possible modules may include:

PS700 - Physical Science Research Planning

PS713 - Substances of Abuse

PS717 - Incident Management

PS740 - Forensic Science Research Project MSCI

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement

• A level:ABB including B in Chemistry
• GCSE:C in Mathematics
• Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.
• International Baccalaureate:34 points overall or 16 at HL including Chemistry or Biology 5 at HL, Chemistry plus IB Mathematics 4 at HL or SL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The Forensic Chemistry program at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive education in the scientific principles and techniques used in forensic investigations. The course is designed to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for careers in forensic science, criminal justice, and related fields. Throughout the program, students explore various topics including analytical chemistry, biochemistry, criminalistics, law enforcement, and the application of scientific methods to solve crimes. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of precision, data analysis, and ethical considerations in forensic work. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, enabling them to develop proficiency in modern laboratory techniques such as chromatography, spectrometry, and DNA analysis. The university often collaborates with law enforcement agencies and forensic laboratories, providing opportunities for placements and real-world training. The program also covers legal, ethical, and social issues related to forensic investigations, preparing students for interdisciplinary collaboration with law enforcement, legal professionals, and scientists. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, analytical chemists, or proceed to postgraduate study. The university’s facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories and resources that facilitate high-quality research and training. The course typically spans three years for full-time students, with options for part-time study, and can include a placement year to enhance practical skills. Admission requires strong academic background in sciences such as chemistry or biology, and prospective students should demonstrate a keen interest in forensic science. The program is accredited and follows rigorous academic standards, ensuring graduates meet professional expectations in the forensic and scientific communities.