BSc (Hons) Biology and Forensic Science

Keele University campus

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Biology and Forensic Science program at Keele University combines the study of biology with the principles and techniques of forensic science, preparing students for careers in forensic investigation, crime scene analysis, and biological evidence interpretation. This interdisciplinary degree integrates biological sciences with forensic methodologies, covering topics such as genetics, molecular biology, human anatomy, forensic chemistry, and crime scene management. Students gain practical experience in laboratory settings, developing skills in DNA analysis, fingerprinting, forensic entomology, and toxicology. The program emphasizes the application of scientific methods to criminal investigations and legal proceedings, ensuring graduates are equipped to work in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and research institutions.

1. Core Biology Concepts and Forensic Principles: The program provides a strong foundation in biology and forensic science principles. Students study biological processes relevant to forensic investigations, including genetics, physiology, microbiology, and human anatomy. They learn how to apply biological concepts to analyze and interpret forensic evidence.

2. Forensic Laboratory Skills: Students develop practical skills in forensic laboratory techniques and methodologies. They learn how to collect and analyze biological evidence, conduct DNA profiling, and use specialized equipment for forensic analysis. Practical training prepares students to work effectively in forensic science settings.

3. Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence Collection: The program covers crime scene investigation techniques and evidence collection procedures. Students learn how to process crime scenes, document evidence, and maintain chain of custody. They study forensic photography, fingerprint analysis, and techniques for preserving biological evidence.

4. Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology: Students explore the role of chemistry and toxicology in forensic science. They learn about drug analysis, trace evidence analysis, and chemical analysis techniques used in forensic investigations. This knowledge enables students to identify and analyze chemical substances encountered in forensic contexts.

5. Expert Witness Testimony and Legal Aspects: The program addresses legal aspects of forensic science and prepares students to provide expert witness testimony in court proceedings. Students learn about forensic law, courtroom procedures, and the role of forensic scientists in criminal investigations. They develop communication skills for presenting scientific evidence effectively in legal settings.

6. Career Opportunities in Forensic Science: Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biology and Forensic Science program have diverse career opportunities in forensic science and related fields. They can work as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, laboratory technicians, or forensic analysts in law enforcement agencies, government laboratories, private forensic companies, or research institutions.

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Location

Keele University campus

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 17900

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 60% or above.  

English Language Proficiency: 

  • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 87, with a minimum score of 21 in each section.
  • PTE Academic: Overall score of 64, with no sub-score below 58.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Keele University offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to attract and assist international students in pursuing their studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £2,500 per year for the duration of the undergraduate program. Eligibility is based on academic merit and applicants are automatically considered when they submit their application for admission.

Keele International Student Scholarship: The Keele International Student Scholarship is available to international students enrolling in a postgraduate taught master's degree program. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £3,000. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for their chosen postgraduate program.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: Keele University participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, which is funded by the UK government. The scheme provides full tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarship is available for selected master's degree programs in specific fields of study.

Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and contribute to the global community. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for the first year of study. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Keele University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts. Examples include the Keele Nigeria Scholarship and the Keele ASEAN Scholarships, which provide financial support to students from Nigeria and Southeast Asia, respectively.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary each year.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biology and Forensic Science program at Keele University possess a unique blend of biological expertise and forensic science skills, making them well-suited for a range of career opportunities in the field of forensic science, criminal investigation, and related sectors. This interdisciplinary degree equips graduates with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to contribute effectively to forensic investigations, evidence analysis, and criminal justice processes.

1. Forensic Scientist: Graduates can pursue roles as forensic scientists in government agencies, law enforcement organizations, or private forensic laboratories. They analyze biological evidence, such as DNA, fingerprints, and body fluids, to assist in criminal investigations and court proceedings.

2. Crime Scene Investigator: Graduates may work as crime scene investigators, responsible for collecting, documenting, and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes. They use forensic techniques to reconstruct events and provide crucial evidence for solving crimes.

3. Forensic Lab Technician: Graduates can work as forensic laboratory technicians, conducting tests and experiments on biological samples to identify and analyze evidence. They operate specialized equipment, interpret results, and assist forensic scientists in evidence analysis.

4. Forensic DNA Analyst: Specializing in DNA analysis, graduates can become forensic DNA analysts, responsible for extracting, amplifying, and interpreting DNA profiles from biological samples. They play a key role in identifying suspects and linking individuals to crime scenes.

5. Toxicologist: Graduates with a focus on forensic toxicology can work as toxicologists, analyzing chemical substances in biological samples to determine their presence and concentration. They provide expertise on drug-related cases, poisoning incidents, and substance abuse investigations.

6. Fingerprint Expert: Graduates specializing in fingerprint analysis can pursue careers as fingerprint experts, comparing and identifying fingerprint patterns to establish links between suspects and crime scenes. They use advanced techniques and databases to assist in criminal investigations.

7. Digital Forensic Analyst: With additional training in digital forensics, graduates can become digital forensic analysts, examining electronic devices and digital evidence to uncover digital crimes and cyber-related activities.

8. Forensic Anthropologist: Graduates interested in biological anthropology can pursue careers as forensic anthropologists, analyzing skeletal remains to determine the identity, age, and cause of death of individuals. They assist in identifying human remains in criminal investigations.

9. Criminal Intelligence Analyst: Graduates can work as criminal intelligence analysts, using data analysis and profiling techniques to identify patterns, trends, and connections in criminal activities. They provide intelligence support to law enforcement agencies and assist in crime prevention efforts.

10. Research and Academia: Some graduates choose to pursue research or academic careers in forensic science, contributing to scientific advancements and education in the field. They may work in universities, research institutions, or forensic science programs, conducting studies and training future forensic scientists.


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