About this course
- Entry year: 2012/13
- Course code: F4W6(F)
- Applications: UCAS
- Level: Undergraduate
- Tariff points: Normally 120 minimum
- Department: Applied Sciences
- Campus: University Centre Yeovil
- Duration: Two years full-time, four years part-time
- Programme leader: Dr Chris Simpson (UCY) and
Dr Sarah Bateman (UWE)
- Key fact: This course is accredited by the Forensic Science Society in all their component standards - Crime Scene Investigation, Laboratory Analysis and Interpretation and Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence.
Introduction
Delivered mainly at the dedicated higher education facilities of University Centre Yeovil with practical blocks at UWE's Forensic Science laboratories and crime scene facilities, this two year full-time (or four year part-time) course has been designed to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively in many areas of forensic investigation, be they crime scene or laboratory based. Uniquely, a significant proportion of the course is dedicated to the teaching of forensic photography skills, which are useful not only in a forensic science context but wherever rigorous visual documentation is required. In addition, the course gives a solid grounding in areas of biology, particularly physiology and genetics, and chemistry, particularly analytical chemistry.
Because of its high proportion of practical instruction and its emphasis on vocational studies the programme is an excellent basis for any analytical laboratory based employment. It also provides an opportunity for those students wishing to progress further in higher education to continue to a level 3 BSc(Hons) award in Forensic Science at UWE Bristol, or similar programmes elsewhere.
This course has a highly vocational flavour, through its high practical content, its work-based learning component and the opportunity to develop specialist skills in forensic photography. Industrial visits introduce a range of relevant professions at level 1, and students undertake work experience in an appropriate placement at level 2.
The course was designed in part for staff development of employees of law enforcement agencies, emergency services and regional forensic science service providers, who may wish to sign up to the whole FdSc or individual modules for continuing professional development purposes.
Structure
Content
Year 1
All students study the following modules:
- Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation
- Biology for Forensic Science
- Chemistry for Forensic Science
- General and Forensic Photography
- Scientific Inquiry
- Study Skills and Work Based Learning
Year 2
All students study the following modules:
- Forensic Investigation of Materials
- Molecular Biology
- Instrumental Analytical Skills
- Advanced Forensic Photography
- Research Methods in Science
- Professional Practice
Teaching and learning
Learning is through lectures, workshops, tutorials, laboratory work, simulated crime scene work, industrial visits and placements. Students will also benefit from talks by visiting lecturers.
Assessment
A variety of assessment methods is used to reflect the range of theoretical concepts, knowledge and practical skills that is developed in this course. These include formal written examinations, written reports, seminar presentations, assessed practicals and portfolios.
Special Features
Study facilities
Students will be based at University Centre Yeovil, which includes classrooms, internet-enabled computing facilities, photography studios, a library, a student support unit and a cafe. The centre includes facilities for disabled students. In addition, students will benefit from access to the teaching and learning facilities at both Yeovil College, which is close to University Centre Yeovil, and at UWE, including laboratories, crime scene facilities, extensive paper-based and electronic resources, and student support facilites.
Careers/further study
This course is an excellent preparation for careers in forensic investigation or analytical science. It also provides an opportunity for those students wishing to progress further in higher education to continue to a level 3 BSc(Hons) award in Forensic Science at UWE.
Entry
Typical offers
- Tariff points: Normally 120 minimum
- GCSE: Maths, English Language and Science at grade C or above required.
- A-level subjects: A2 Science, preferably Biology or Chemistry
- Relevant subjects: Bioogy, Chemistry
- Access: Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma; achievement of level 3 credits in Science; achievement of level 2 credits in Maths, English Language and Science.
- Baccalaureate IB: 24
Entry requirements
In addition to the 'typical offer' given here, please read the general information about entry requirements.
How to apply
Please see the general information about applications.
For further information
Page last updated 14 December 2011