In the first and second years of your Forensic Science with Criminology degree you will learn how to process crime scenes, be introduced to the major scientific branches used in forensic investigations, and learn how to analyse a wide range of forensic evidence. In the final year of your Forensic Science with Criminology degree, you study sample preparation techniques, and novel and emerging techniques used in the chemical analysis of forensic evidence. You can select from a range of Criminology topics including critical issues in policing and crime investigation, understanding homicide, policing styles and principles and young people in the criminal justice system. Modules: Year One • Analytical Methods for Forensic/Chemical Science • Introduction to Forensic Science • Laboratory Safety and Practice • Organic Chemistry • Introduction to Criminalistics • Understanding Crime, Criminals and Victims • Understanding Criminal Justice Year Two • Forensic Earth Science • Forensic Imaging • Analytical Chemistry • Spectroscopy • Forensic Evidence • Policing • Penology: Punishment, Prison and Offender Management Year Three • Forensic Microscopy • Case Studies • Forensic Literature Project • Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Analysis in Forensic Science • Fire and Explosion Investigation • Advanced Analytical Chemistry • Comparative Criminology And one module from the following list: • Cultural Criminology (Optional) • Understanding Homicide • Young People in the Criminal Justice System • Critical issues in Criminal Investigations • Terrorism and the ‘War on Terror’ • Youth Gangs and Troublesome Youth Groups N.B. Please note optional module choices are subject to change.

Our Forensic Science with Criminology degree course provides broad-based scientific training which does not restrict graduates when they choose their career. You will gain an excellent portfolio of practical skills that are in demand by employers, including research and report writing skills, the ability to analyse a range of evidence types and present evidence in court. You will also be trained using the same instruments and techniques as practising forensic scientists, which will give you an advantage when applying for graduate positions. Employability and career development is built into our Forensic Science with Criminology degree alongside more traditional academic study and we work closely with employers to ensure the skills and knowledge of our graduates meet the demanding requirements of today’s workplace. We invite guest speakers from a range of professions such as the police, to come to talk to our students and offer them the opportunity to learn not only about “hands on” practical concerns but also about potential careers. To increase your employability, you may be able to spend a year working in industry mid-way through the course, which is an excellent way to expand your range of skills. The University of South Wales has excellent links with universities overseas and you may have the opportunity to spend an academic year abroad. We offer an exciting range of destinations from Europe to as far afield as the USA or even Australia. The experience of living and studying in another country could change your whole outlook on life and boost your attractiveness to potential employers. The skills and knowledge of our forensic science and criminology graduates are highly desirable. Career opportunities for our forensic science graduates have been very good, gaining posts all over the world in forensic laboratories, crime scene investigation teams, toxicology, police forces, biomedical and environmental laboratories, fingerprint bureaus, insurance investigation and health and safety. A Forensic Science with Criminology degree is also an excellent foundation for a broad range of criminal justice careers where forensic awareness plays a key role. Popular career routes for Criminology students include the Crown Prosecution Service, police force, prison, probation, protection and victim support services and social work. This degree is relevant for new careers such as intelligence analysis and crime reduction officers. Many of our graduates also progress to postgraduate study and research.