Criminology and Forensic Biology BSc Hons

Accreditations

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Course Summary

Our BSc Criminology and Forensic Biology course explores the compelling intersection of criminological theories and criminal justice practices. This dynamic and interdisciplinary program immerses you in Psychological and Sociological perspectives on critical societal issues such as social inequality, crime, and justice, with case studies drawn from both national and international contexts.

You’ll study a combination of forensic aspects with a thorough grounding in biology, mastering advanced techniques in molecular biology and DNA profiling. These skills are essential for forensic applications and versatile across various biological fields, preparing you for a range of graduate career opportunities.

Our experienced lecturers are supported by practising forensic experts from many disciplines, offering a rich learning experience. Emphasis is placed on the development of key generic skills, equipping you with the necessary theoretical basis and practical experience to enter many areas of employment in forensic and biological sciences and criminology.

Additionally, you'll have the chance to engage in hands-on activities, from crime scene investigations to courtroom activities, preparing you for real-world situations and complex challenges.

Why you'll Love it

Small group teaching

A group of students sat in a lecture with a teacher

Careers focus throughout

Research informed teaching

A student working in a criminology session with notepad and pen.

What you'll Study

The Criminology and Forensic Biology Course is delivered through a series of core modules that provide you with a detailed understanding of the theoretical and practical applications of both disciplines. In year 1 (Level 4), you will be introduced to the essential principles, mechanisms and concepts that underpin both Forensic Biology and Criminology.

In year 2 (Level 5), you will expand your knowledge and develop more advanced skills in both disciplines. In Forensic Biology, you’ll learn how principles are applied in forensic investigations – from crime scene to court. In Criminology you will explore theoretical and practical understandings of crime, harm and victimisation applying knowledge and building an understanding of the criminal justice system and journey.

In your final year (Level 6), you will tackle more complex topics while continuing to develop a range of analytical skills. In Forensic Biology, your focus will be upon the benefits of biosciences and applied analytical techniques. Subjects such as biotechnology, pharmacology and toxicology are considered as opportunities for problem solving. There will also be an exploration of experiences of punishments and injustices considered in the context of promoting social change. You will also develop an active voice as a reflective academic and researcher with cultural awareness and sensitivity in responding to real-world problems relevant to criminology and criminal justice. At Level 6 the dissertation/major project module will be delivered alongside other modules. 

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

This course is delivered in three terms of ten weeks each. In each term students’ study 40 credits usually comprised of either one or two modules. At Level 6 the dissertation/major project module will be delivered alongside other modules. 

 Average scheduled contact hours range between approximately 6 and 10 hours per week depending upon the module, level of study, number of practical sessions, and the complexity of the material being taught. The course is delivered through a mix of in person and online learning. Students can expect to take part in lectures and seminars. Alongside this, students will develop relevant skills (e.g. laboratory, field, computer) through practical sessions, field trips, or work placements. 

Independent learning is an important part of this course. Students should expect to spend an average of 30 – 34 hours per week on independent study which might include following asynchronous learning material on the University’s VLE, using the University’s library, working with peers, and preparing work for assessment. 

All teaching is delivered by experienced academics and practitioners, with the fundamental principles of the Chester Future Skills Curriculum at its core - building your subject competence, confidence, and key transferable skills to shape you into a world-ready Chester graduate.

Entry Requirements

112UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff	112 points
GCE A Level	Typical offer – BCC-BBC Must include A Level Biology or Chemistry
BTEC	BTEC Extended Diploma (Applied Science): DMM
International Baccalaureate	26 points, including 5 in HL Biology or Chemistry
Irish / Scottish Highers	Irish Highers: H3 H3 H3 H3 H4, including H3 in either Biology, Chemistry Scottish Highers: BBBB including either Biology, Chemistry
Access requirements	Access to HE Diploma (Science), to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above
T Level	T Level Science - Merit
OCR Cambridge Technicals	OCR Extended Diploma (Applied Science): DMM
Extra Information	Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For more information on our entry requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

72UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff	72 points
GCE A level	72 points overall, including grade D or above in A Level Biology or Chemistry
BTEC	BTEC Extended Diploma (Applied Science): MMP
International Baccalaureate	24 points including 4 in HL Biology
Irish / Scottish Highers	Irish Highers: H4 H4 H4 H4 H4 (including H4 in Biology) Scottish Highers: CCDD (must include Biology)
Access requirements	Access to HE Diploma – Pass overall (Science)
T Level	T Level: Pass (D or E on the core) T Level must be in Science.
OCR Cambridge Technicals	OCR Extended Diploma: MMP
Extra Information	Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. If you are a mature student (21 or over) and have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels), then our Foundation Year courses will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to succeed in your chosen degree.

Fees and Funding

£9,535per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2025/26 are £9,535 a year, or £1,590 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

You can find more information about undergraduate fees on our Fees and Finance pages.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

£14,450*per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2025/26 are £14,450 per year for a full-time course. This fee is set for each year of study.

The University of Chester offers generous international and merit-based scholarships, providing a significant reduction to the published headline tuition fee. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships when your application is reviewed, and any award given will be stated on your offer letter.

For courses with a Foundation Year, the tuition fees for Year 1 are £10,750 and £14,200 for Years 2-4 in 2025/26.

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

Who you’ll Learn from

Dr Holly White

Head of Social and Political Sciences

Dr Jayne Price

Deputy Head, Social and Political Science

Paul French

Lecturer, Criminology

Dr Kim Ross

Deputy Head, Social and Political Science

Dr Wayne Campbell

Senior Lecturer, Criminology

Chris Davis

Programme Leader BSc Forensic Biology (Single & Combined)

Simone Benhafsi

Lecturer, Criminology

Emma Price

Lecturer in Criminology

Where you'll Study Exton Park, Chester

The location

Modern learning resources and library

Seaborne library, seating and reception area.

Student Services

Fitness facilities

A male student wearing goggles is swimming in the training pool between the red rope lane marker lines.

Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces

Accommodation

Catering

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Roles include forensic biology, police officers, analytical scientist, biological researchers, science teachers, crime scene examiners, forensic DNA analyst.  The course provides skills in communication (both written and oral), encourages analytical thinking as well as critical analysis, and develops practical laboratory skills enhancing employability options in a wide variety of industries.

Progression Options

Policing, Law Enforcement and Security MSc

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.

Criminology and Forensic Biology BSc (Hons)