This module will provide an insight into the biological aspects of the work of forensic scientists and related professions. It will also provide an understanding of the work of associated services e.g. police, crime scene investigator, identification specialists, legal specialists.

The main aim is to place forensic science in its historical context and give insight into the development of this modern science. Also to give an insight into the use of forensic techniques in areas of  research including crime scene analysis.

A module to discuss advanced analytical and sampling techniques used for forensic science, building on previous material. Underlying theories will be supported with case studies and practical elements, showcasing how to apply these procedures and techniques to active crime scenes.

Core on Equal in Forensic Biology only

This module explores the fundamental concepts and applications of modern biotechnology. It begins by examining the cellular and molecular organization of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, the structure and function of biological macromolecules, and key biochemical processes such as transcription, translation, and enzyme catalysis. The module delves into the stoichiometry and kinetics of microbial growth, as well as the metabolic pathways and signalling mechanisms that regulate cellular function.

Building on this foundation, the module connects these biological principles to biotechnological applications, focusing on bioprocesses and industrial biotechnology. Topics include energy metabolism, genetic engineering, bioreactor design, upstream and downstream stages, and bioprocess scalability, with an emphasis on traditional and cutting-edge technologies. Ultimately, this module provides the knowledge necessary to understand and innovate within the biotechnology industry, integrating cellular mechanisms and bioprocess engineering for the production of commercial bioproducts.

Core on Equal in Forensic Biology only

In this module, you will engage in the research of a selected topic relevant to your course. You will have the opportunity to delve deeply into a subject of your choice, utilising primary and secondary sources to inform your work. You will consider the ethics and health and safety aspects of conducting your project, and apply your prior training in experimental design and analysis. Throughout the process, you will develop your critical thinking and analytical skills, whilst conducting this independent research with the support of a lecturer. The dissertation represents a substantial piece of scholarly work that demonstrates your understanding and application of scientific concepts relevant to your course. Additionally, you will refine your skills in academic writing and effective communication of complex ideas. Overall, the dissertation represents the culmination of your education, preparing you to become a biological scientist.

This module critically examines the multifaceted ways in which state actions can contribute to social harms, injustices, and environmental degradation. Students will explore state-induced crimes through a critical criminological lens, focusing on how policies and actions can perpetuate systemic inequalities and harm both individuals and communities globally. The module introduces sense-making theories, providing tools to analyse and evaluate the impact of state actions on broader social injustices, including ecological damage and economic inequality. Through a combination of theoretical insights and real-world case studies, students will critically assess topics such as state violence, environmental harms, economic policies, and human rights violations. Key learning outcomes include the ability to analyse the global impacts of state-induced crimes, apply theoretical frameworks, and devise strategies for mitigating harms. The module emphasises practical, socially responsible approaches to addressing systemic issues, equipping students with actionable skills to contribute to meaningful change. With a structured curriculum spanning ten weeks, topics include the historical and contemporary dimensions of state crime, environmental and social injustices, and the role of human rights frameworks. By the end, students will be well-prepared to critically engage with these pressing global challenges and advocate for justice in diverse contexts.

Major project in Criminology only

This level 6 major project module will take students on a transformative journey that will enhance their critical thinking, analytical abilities, and academic writing.  Students will learn about the philosophical foundations of social research and will be able to reflect on their own philosophical and methodological standpoint. Research design, ethical issues and methodological tensions will be covered throughout the first two terms of this module. A practical focus on quantitative and qualitative data analysis will aid students to become career ready for the research sector. Teaching will be face to face in small groups, where students will work with peers to consider the staged process of research design and apply what they have learnt to real world research phenomena. Once students have developed their knowledge and understanding of research methods and data analysis techniques, they will embark on their own piece of research under the guidance of an academic supervisor. By writing a substantial piece of independent research students will gain essential skills in research methodology, data analysis, and academic writing that will serve them throughout their academic and professional career.

With major project in Forensic Biology only

This module will enable students to critically analyse and evaluate theoretical and philosophical justifications of punishment across time and space. Coupled with an examination of why and how punishment is delivered in practice. This module will encourage students to appreciate the consistencies, contradictions and conflicts which arise across theoretical and philosophical inquiry, as well as among political ideologies. That serve to impact upon the creation, development and application of penal policy. Students upon the module will critically appraise what is (and is not) known of the inner workings and relationships among practitioners. With considerations of gender, race, religion, age, class, sex and disability also being acknowledged to emphasise the role(s) and responsibility(s) of society as determining factors in the development and delivery of punishment. This module will allow students to acquire meaningful skills which can be influential in their personal and professional lives as proponents of criminal justice reform. From having explored and discovered the multiplicity of individuals involved in and impacted by the existence of crime, as well as developing their capacity to communicate effectively to an audience and stimulate change.