Photos of university / #unikentlive
Forensic Chemistry at the University of Kent is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the scientific knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in forensic science and criminal investigation. This course offers a unique blend of chemistry, biology, and forensic science, enabling students to understand and apply various analytical techniques to crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, and criminal justice. Throughout the programme, students will explore topics such as analytical chemistry, toxicology, forensic biology, fingerprint analysis, toxicology, and criminal law. The curriculum combines classroom lectures with practical laboratory sessions, fieldwork, and case studies to provide hands-on experience in forensic techniques.
The programme emphasizes critical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and ethical considerations essential for working in forensic laboratories and investigative roles. Students will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and forensic facilities, where they can develop their laboratory skills and learn how to handle evidence properly. The course also offers opportunities for placements and work experience in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and related organizations, giving students valuable industry insights. Graduates of the Forensic Chemistry program will be well-prepared for careers in forensic science, criminal justice, law enforcement, and related fields, or for further study at postgraduate level. The University of Kent’s research-led teaching, combined with its strong links to professional bodies and industry partners, ensures that students receive a high-quality education aligned with current forensic practice and standards.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee- GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
- GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test
- English
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.
Forensic Chemistry at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive education in the application of chemistry to criminal justice. The programme is designed to develop a strong foundation in chemical principles, analytical techniques, and their practical application in forensic investigations. Students explore a wide range of subjects including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, alongside specialised modules focused on forensic science, criminal law, and investigative procedures. The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical laboratory sessions, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and microscopy, which are essential in forensic analysis.
The degree emphasizes the importance of interpreting scientific data within a legal context, preparing graduates for careers in forensic laboratories, police investigative units, or related agencies. Throughout the programme, students engage with case studies and real-world scenarios to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The University of Kent’s strong links with industry and forensic practitioners provide opportunities for placements and networking, enhancing employability after graduation. The course also encourages the development of research skills, as students undertake projects that may involve innovative approaches to forensic analysis, thereby contributing to advances in the field. Graduates of Forensic Chemistry at Kent have gone on to work in various forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and in criminal justice policy development, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on applying scientific expertise to real-world criminal investigations. The programme generally spans three years for full-time students and includes optional modules allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within forensic science and chemistry. Facilities at the university include well-equipped laboratories and access to forensic simulation tools, ensuring students have the resources needed to succeed. Overall, the programme strives to produce skilled, ethical, and research-informed forensic scientists capable of making significant contributions to forensic investigations and the criminal justice system.
Currency
EUR
GBP
KZT
INR
RUB