Forensic Biology BSc Hons | University of Chester

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Course Summary

This course offers a combination of forensic aspects with a thorough grounding in the traditional science of biology, in particular the molecular biology techniques and DNA profiling. The techniques you will learn are transferable to other biological disciplines, and provide a solid foundation for a wide range of graduate careers.

Teaching is delivered by an experienced and committed team of lecturers, supported by practicing experts from many forensic disciplines. Emphasis is placed on the development of key skills, equipping you with the necessary theoretical basis and practical experience to enter many areas of employment in both forensic and biological sciences.

You’ll have the opportunity to involve yourself in a range of practices, from a crime scene to a court.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our Programme Leader Chris Davis: cj.davis@chester.ac.uk.

Why You'll Love It

Gain Valuable Experience with our Work Based Placement

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Exton Park, Chester

What You'll Study

The Physical and Natural Sciences Foundation Year route is an ideal place to begin your journey in academic sciences.

The Foundation Year is designed to give you a strong knowledge and skills base aligned with your chosen four-year degree. Following a solid grounding in scientific principles or behavioural sciences in your first block of teaching, you will study bespoke modules aligned with your discipline. This could involve studying the human body in health and disease and how to encourage healthy and sustainable behaviours, or the biology of terrestrial and marine animals and the impacts of their interactions with humans, or you might focus on the physical sciences and how they can help change the world for the better. Whatever you aspire to, we can offer you a supportive and incremental introduction to your science degree.

Term 1: Introduction to Scientific Principles
Term 2: Contemporary Biological Sciences
Term 3: Applications of Biological Sciences

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.

The course contains core modules at each level of study.

At Level 4, you are introduced to the essential principles, mechanisms and concepts needed to understand forensic biology. You will receive a comprehensive education in biosciences, from biochemistry and cell biology to organisms.

Modules

In this module, you will learn the essential concepts and skills that form the backbone of a degree in biological sciences. Through theory and practical sessions this module will systematically guide you through every level of biological organisation, from the smallest cellular structures through to studying animal behaviour and ecology. Throughout this module you will develop academic, practical and analysis skills to support your career development as you advance your studies in the biological sciences.

In this module, you will explore the fundamentals of scientific research, including how to develop research questions, work with relevant literature, understand basic statistical concepts and communicate research findings. Key biological topics, such as advanced physiology and genetics, will be covered, with an emphasis on connecting theory to practice. Subsequently, you will then focus on topics specific to your course, such as animal behaviour or microbiology. You will gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and data analysis, applying these methods to various practical activities. Overall this module will train you in the methodologies of scientific research while enhancing your knowledge of theory relevant to your course.

This module aims to provide you with the opportunity to gain further practical skills and develop your own projects. You will explore various experimental methods through subject-specific workshops in the laboratory or field. Working in groups, you will apply these skills and your previous training in formulating research questions, to conduct your own study. In doing so you will need to consider ethical factors and practical constraints where relevant. At the end of the module, you will be able to present your findings as a group, showcasing your ability to conduct an experiment and communicate results effectively.

The module will introduce you to a range of analytical and identification techniques used in forensic investigations. There will be a focus on contact traces recovered from crime scenes and how they are used as evidence. Practicals will enable you to have hands on experience in applying techniques.

Chinese: Intermediate Language Development (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE in Chinese or equivalent. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

French: Communication in Practice (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students that have completed A-Level or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

French: Intermediate Language Development (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

German: Communication in Practice (20 Credits) Option

This module enables students with A-Level German or equivalent to further develop their grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

Spanish: Communication in Practice (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students that have completed a A-Level or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

Spanish: Intermediate Language Development (20 Credits) Option

This module is designed for students that have completed GCSE or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

Subsidiary Language for Beginners (20 Credits) Option

This module provides the opportunity to study a new language from scratch and introduces you to basic grammar, vocabulary and cultural contexts. You will apply the language to practical situations using both oral and written skills.

Level 5 builds upon this broad base of knowledge and considers how principles are applied, and how pathology, microbiology and molecular biology are used in forensic investigations. There are opportunities for fieldwork or work experience at Level 5, as you consider future employment.

Modules

This module will teach you how pathology is underpinned by a series of biological mechanisms and concepts that can be applied to all diseases. By identifying these shared mechanisms, you will be able to look at diseases and understand how they develop and how they go on to impact humans and animals. This module will highlight the interrelatedness of biological systems and how a disease in one organ or tissue can directly and indirectly impact another, adding to the impact of the disease. The module will consider disease at every biological level, from cellular and tissue pathology, to systemic pathology, that looks at organ systems and the consequences of diseases upon them.

This module aims to develop your knowledge of molecular biology and its applications across the life sciences and related industries. You will gain knowledge, skills and experience of how molecules function and interact in organisms and the environment. There will be a strong emphasis upon identifying and measuring molecules and utilising this information to explore how organisms function and how this knowledge can benefit society.

This module will take you through the stages of crime scene examination, analysis of exhibits, preparation of legal documents and the presentation of oral evidence in a courtroom setting.

In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a range of experiential activities (e.g., volunteering, workplace engagement, research projects, field trip (where available and dependent on course), or through a combination of activities). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role.

Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. This module empowers you to explore new environments, apply your knowledge, and discover how your academic training translates into real-world impact, boosting your confidence and work readiness.

It is your responsibility to organise any experience undertaken outside of the university as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.

All activities within this module must be university-level; this means:

Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)
Meeting the professional expectations of the experiential activities you undertake
Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as an experiential activity provider, if the role aligns with your career development and provides you with high skilled work commensurate with level 5 study.

In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a structured, university-level work placement for 4, 5 or 7 weeks as one continuous block / period with a placement provider (i.e. a local employer from the private, public, or charitable sector). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role. Therefore this module will enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

It is your responsibility to organise the placement as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.

All work placements within this module must be university-level; this means:

Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)
Physically placed (albeit part of it can be hybrid) within an employer setting in one continuous block / period for 4, 5 or 7 weeks for a minimum of 140-147 hours over the course of the entire work placement
Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as the placement provider, if the high-skilled work criterion above is fulfilled for the full duration of the placement.
All quality assurances/agreements provided by the University are adhered to, by you and the employer.

The work placement context may not necessarily, reflect your degree discipline per se, but rather, it will give you an enriched experience to enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

Choose one of the following:

Professional Placement (40 Credits) Optional
Term abroad (40 Credits) Optional
One of the following Language options

Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts.

Developing Intercultural Literacy and Cross-Cultural Skills (40 Credits) Optional

The multiple facets of global citizenship
Ethical engagement and practice
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
Intercultural communication
Culture shock
Cultural adjustment
Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Experiential Overseas Learning (40 Credits) Optional

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:

The multiple facets of Global citizenship
Ethical engagement and practice
Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
Intercultural communication
Theories, models and strategies of learning

Theories and models Intercultural competence

Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
Experiential learning models
Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

Enhanced independence
Improved command of multicultural behaviour
Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
Effective time management and organisational skills
Project management – working away from University and independent study
Self-management and personal development
Team building and team work

Part B: Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours

Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country.

Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country.

Or you can choose ONE of the following:

University Placement Year Optional
Subject Placement Year Optional
International University Placement Year Optional

At Level 6, you will focus on the benefits of biosciences and applied biological knowledge. Subjects such as biotechnology, pharmacology and toxicology are considered opportunities for problem-solving.

Throughout the course, you will receive extensive training to develop your professional scientific skills; this includes generating scientific questions, planning, designing and carrying out experiments, and analysing and interpreting data. This culminates in a dissertation project at Level 6.

Modules

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.

This module aims to provide you with an understanding of pharmacology and toxicology and the way that medicines and drugs impact the body. The module will provide you with an overview of the methods used to evaluate the effectiveness, and toxicity, of these molecules, and consider the mechanisms in action when exposed to major classes of medicines, drugs and toxins.

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.

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 course is delivered in three terms of ten weeks each. In each term, you will study 40 credits comprised of either one or two modules. At Level 6, the dissertation module will be delivered alongside other modules.

If studied, the Foundation Year, as with the following years of study, will be taught in three 10-week blocks across an academic year. Each block will comprise of a large 40-credit subject-specific module that includes a breadth of topics and subject skills. You will have on average 12-14 hours of contact time per week during the Foundation Year. There may be variations to this where subject practical or specialist space teaching is included.

Average scheduled contact hours range between approximately six and ten 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. You can expect to take part in lectures and seminars. Alongside this, you will develop relevant skills (e.g., laboratory, field and computer skills) through practical sessions, field trips or work placements.

Independent learning is an important part of this course. You 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.

Teaching will be delivered by experienced academics and practitioners in the subject. This will be supplemented by occasional guest lecturers and speakers.

There will be a broad range of assessment methods so that students are exposed to the different types of tasks they might encounter in the workplace. These will include coursework in the form of written pieces, laboratory reports, data processing and presentations. In some modules, you will encounter group work and practical assessments, as well as end-of-module assessments.

We continuously review the assessment methods used to ensure they adequately prepare students for graduate-level employment.

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	28 points, including 5 in HL Biology or Chemistry
Irish / Scottish Highers	Irish Highers: H3 H3 H3 H3 H4, including H3 in either Biology or Chemistry Scottish Highers: BBBB, including either Biology or Chemistry
Access requirements	Access to HE Diploma (Science), to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above
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, including a grade D in A Level Biology or Chemistry
BTEC	BTEC Extended Diploma (Applied Science): MMP
International Baccalaureate	24 points, including 4 in HL Biology or Chemistry
Irish / Scottish Highers	Irish Highers: H4 H4 H4 H4 H4, including Biology or Chemistry Scottish Highers: CCDD, including Biology or Chemistry
Access requirements	Access to HE Diploma (Science) – Pass overall
OCR Cambridge Technicals	OCR Extended Diploma (Applied Science): 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. 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.

Depending on the course you are studying, there may be additional course-specific costs that you will be required to meet, some of which will be mandatory, others as part of optional modules.

Mandatory costs:

All students carrying out laboratory work will be required to purchase a lab induction pack with a lab coat and other required equipment. The current price is £30.00, but this may be subject to price increases depending on purchase costs. Second-hand packs at a slightly lower price are subject to availability.

Optional costs:

If you choose Optional modules that include travel overseas you will be responsible for the full cost of the trip. In the past, this has been between £2,000 and £3,000 for a two-week overseas trip, but future costs may vary due to global price fluctuations. The University will endeavour to revise the expected estimation of costs on an annual basis.
You can opt to take part in the Welcome Week trip which will involve a contribution of £10.
You should also consider having waterproof clothing and sturdy walking boots. The quality and cost of these are at your discretion but must be suitable for fieldwork/trips in the UK in the winter months.

Other additional costs may include (but are not limited to):

The purchase of books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and travel to placements.
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.
You may also wish to consider the cost of graduation and the hire or purchase of your robes as well as travel and accommodation at the event.

Who You'll Learn From

Chris Davis

Senior Lecturer

Dr Robert Coleman

Senior Lecturer

Dr Dan Baldock

Lecturer

Dr Jonny Kyffin

Lecturer

Dr Virginia Harvey

Senior Lecturer

Where You'll Study Exton Park, Chester

The location

Modern learning resources and library

Seaborne library, seating and reception area.

Fitness facilities

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

Student Services

Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces

Accommodation

Catering

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Roles include forensic biologist, police officer, analytical scientist, biological researcher, science teacher, crime scene examiner, and forensic DNA analyst.  The course provides skills in communication (both written and oral), encourages analytical thinking and critical analysis, and develops practical laboratory skills, enhancing employability options in a wide variety of industries.

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning 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.

Forensic Biology BSc (Hons)

Available with:

Accreditations

Course Summary

Why You'll Love It

Gain Valuable Experience with our Work Based Placement