MBA Business Administration with Professional Placement
The MBA Business Administration with Professional Placement program at UCLan is designe...
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation
Preston Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation program at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) provides students with a comprehensive understanding of forensic science techniques and criminal investigation processes. This interdisciplinary program integrates scientific knowledge with practical investigative skills to prepare students for rewarding careers in the field of forensic science and law enforcement. Students gain hands-on experience in crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, and courtroom presentation, equipping them with the expertise needed to contribute to criminal investigations and legal proceedings. The program covers a wide range of topics, from forensic biology and chemistry to criminal law and forensic psychology.
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Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program offers a multidisciplinary approach, combining elements of biology, chemistry, and criminal justice to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of forensic science and criminal investigation techniques.
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Practical Skills Development: Students engage in practical exercises and laboratory sessions to develop essential skills in crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and forensic analysis. They learn to use advanced scientific equipment and techniques commonly employed in real-world forensic settings.
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Specialized Modules: The curriculum includes specialized modules covering areas such as forensic genetics, forensic toxicology, fingerprint analysis, and digital forensics. These modules deepen students' knowledge of specific forensic science disciplines and investigative methods.
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Industry-Relevant Training: UCLan collaborates with industry partners and law enforcement agencies to provide students with industry-relevant training and guest lectures from practicing forensic experts. This exposure enhances students' understanding of real-world forensic challenges and professional practices.
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Integration of Legal Framework: The program emphasizes the legal aspects of forensic science and criminal investigation. Students gain insights into criminal law, courtroom procedures, and the role of forensic evidence in legal proceedings. This knowledge is essential for effective collaboration with legal professionals and presenting scientific findings in court.
Location
Preston Campus
Score
IELTS: 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Students should have completed their secondary education with a minimum overall percentage of 60% or above in a relevant qualification equivalent to the UK's General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) or A-levels.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6, with no individual component score below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80, with with no band less than 10.
- PTE: A minimum overall score of 61, with no individual score below 59.
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.
Scholarships for International Students at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan):
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship awarded to high-achieving international students. This scholarship provides a significant tuition fee reduction for the duration of the student's program. The selection is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program at UCLan.
International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is aimed at international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. This scholarship offers a tuition fee reduction for the first year of study and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The selection criteria include academic achievements, personal statements, and references.
Country-Specific Scholarships: UCLan offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote cultural diversity and encourage international students from specific regions to study at UCLan. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific scholarship.
Sports Scholarships: UCLan recognizes the achievements of talented student athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and sporting pursuits. These scholarships are available for international students who demonstrate outstanding sporting ability and academic potential. The scholarships provide financial support, mentoring, and access to sports facilities and training programs.
Alumni Loyalty Discount: UCLan values its alumni and offers a tuition fee discount to international students who have previously completed a full degree program at UCLan and wish to pursue further studies at the university. The discount is applied to the tuition fees of eligible postgraduate programs.
External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the scholarships offered by UCLan, international students can also explore external scholarship opportunities and funding options. Various organizations, foundations, and governments provide scholarships for international students studying in the UK. UCLan's International Office can provide guidance and information on external scholarship opportunities.
It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary each year.
The BSc (Hons) Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation program equips graduates with a versatile skill set that opens doors to diverse career opportunities within the field of forensic science, law enforcement, and criminal justice.
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Forensic Scientist: Graduates can pursue roles as forensic scientists in crime laboratories, where they analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. They use specialized techniques to examine DNA, blood splatter patterns, firearms, and other forensic evidence to support criminal investigations.
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Crime Scene Investigator (CSI): CSI roles involve visiting crime scenes to collect and document evidence. Graduates may work for law enforcement agencies, where they apply their knowledge of evidence collection techniques and crime scene preservation to assist in solving crimes.
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Police Officer: Some graduates choose to become police officers specializing in criminal investigations. With their background in forensic science and criminal investigation, they play key roles in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with forensic experts.
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Forensic Toxicologist: Forensic toxicologists analyze biological samples to detect drugs, alcohol, and poisons in the human body. They play a critical role in determining the cause of death in suspicious cases and assisting in criminal investigations.
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Digital Forensic Analyst: With the rise of cybercrime, there is a growing demand for digital forensic analysts. Graduates can work in this specialized field, examining digital devices and data to recover evidence related to computer crimes, fraud, or data breaches.
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Forensic Consultant: Some graduates establish careers as forensic consultants, providing expert advice and testimony in legal cases. They may work independently or for consulting firms, assisting legal teams in interpreting forensic evidence.
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Laboratory Technician: Graduates can work as laboratory technicians in forensic science laboratories, assisting senior scientists in conducting tests, analyzing evidence, and maintaining laboratory equipment.
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Crime Intelligence Analyst: Crime intelligence analysts work with law enforcement agencies to analyze patterns of criminal behavior and provide insights to support investigations and crime prevention strategies.
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Private Investigator: Graduates with a background in forensic science and criminal investigation may pursue careers as private investigators, conducting investigations for legal firms, corporations, or private clients.
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Academic or Researcher: Some graduates pursue further studies and research in forensic science, leading to careers in academia or scientific research institutions, where they contribute to advancing knowledge in forensic techniques and technologies.
