Forensic Science (Extended Degree) BSc (Hons)
Option for Placement Year
Option for Study Abroad
Forensic Science (Extended Degree) BSc (Hons)
Combing theory with evidence.
Are you fascinated by forensic science and its application in criminal investigation? Are you looking for a career that makes a difference? Developing fundamental knowledge and skilled laboratory techniques, you will graduate from this course with the ability to tackle complex scientific problems with confidence, skill and maturity.
Forensic science is the application of science, typically, although not limited to, biology and chemistry, in criminal investigation. Forensic science in practice applies to crime scene investigation for collection, preservation of evidence to laboratory examination (analysis) and evaluation, interpretation and presentation of the findings in written (statements) or oral testimony (court).
If you opt to study a Forensic Science university degree at Northumbria you will develop the essential and fundamental skills required to enter the professional world of forensic science. Tasks, including DNA analysis and trace evidence examination, will be matched with teaching from experienced forensic practitioners, developing your scientific knowledge.
This degree is designed to support and inspire you to high achievement and professionalism in your future career. Building on fundamental knowledge and laboratory skills, you will develop into an independent graduate who can tackle complex problems with confidence, skill and maturity.
Why choose Northumbria to study Forensic Science BSc?
Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences accreditation means the course is always up-to-date and relevant.-
Forensic Science at Northumbria is ranked 4th in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2026.
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Over 91% of students studying Forensic Science at Northumbria believed their course positively challenged them to achieve their best work (NSS, 2025).
See other similar courses you may be interested in: BSc (Hons) Criminology and Forensic Science, Biochemistry BSc.
Combing theory with evidence.
Are you fascinated by forensic science and its application in criminal investigation? Are you looking for a career that makes a difference? Developing fundamental knowledge and skilled laboratory techniques, you will graduate from this course with the ability to tackle complex scientific problems with confidence, skill and maturity.
Forensic science is the application of science, typically, although not limited to, biology and chemistry, in criminal investigation. Forensic science in practice applies to crime scene investigation for collection, preservation of evidence to laboratory examination (analysis) and evaluation, interpretation and presentation of the findings in written (statements) or oral testimony (court).
If you opt to study a Forensic Science university degree at Northumbria you will develop the essential and fundamental skills required to enter the professional world of forensic science. Tasks, including DNA analysis and trace evidence examination, will be matched with teaching from experienced forensic practitioners, developing your scientific knowledge.
This degree is designed to support and inspire you to high achievement and professionalism in your future career. Building on fundamental knowledge and laboratory skills, you will develop into an independent graduate who can tackle complex problems with confidence, skill and maturity.
Why choose Northumbria to study Forensic Science BSc?
Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences accreditation means the course is always up-to-date and relevant.
-
Forensic Science at Northumbria is ranked 4th in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2026.
-
Over 91% of students studying Forensic Science at Northumbria believed their course positively challenged them to achieve their best work (NSS, 2025).
See other similar courses you may be interested in: BSc (Hons) Criminology and Forensic Science, Biochemistry BSc.
Extended Degree
This extended degree provides an alternative route to higher education and supports those who don’t meet the standard entry requirements for an undergraduate degree. It includes a foundation year which has been designed to provide fundamental scientific knowledge and skills in a range of science fields.
What will I learn in my Foundation Year?
Your foundation year will give you a practical introduction to biology, chemistry, food science and forensic science, establishing your laboratory skills, basic numeracy skills, data handling, ICT and study skills. You’ll be taught in large, modern, well-equipped labs with audio-visual facilities to enhance our ability to demonstrate techniques or interesting observations.
The foundation year of the course delivered at level 3 which develops your ability to study in Higher Education is not accredited. Subsequent levels and years are accredited and deliver the knowledge, competencies, and skills required to meet the specific course accreditation requirements that relate to the approved accredited award title.
Course Information
UCAS Code
Z055
Level of Study
Undergraduate
Mode of Study
4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
School
Geography and Natural Sciences
Location
City Campus, Northumbria University
City
Newcastle
Start
September 2026 or September 2027
Fees
Fee Information
School of Geography and Natural Sciences
Uniting disciplines for global good.
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Delve Deeper / Discover more about life at Northumbria
Staff / Meet the Team
Our students learn from the best inspirational academic staff with a genuine passion for their subject. Our courses are at the forefront of current knowledge and practice and are shaped by world-leading and internationally excellent research.
Applied Science Facilities
The Department of Applied Sciences has modern laboratory and computing resources for learning, teaching, research, innovation and business engagement.
University Library
At the heart of each Northumbria campus, our libraries provide a range of study spaces and technology to suit every learning style.
Career Edge / Added Experiences
You can boost your CV and develop your experience whilst studying at Northumbria.
Careers and Employment / Develop
From first year through to final year and beyond graduation, we are here to help.
We have a fantastic service for students' to use to gain advice and tips on furthering careers and enhancing their employability.
Careers and Employment Services
Book an Open Day / Experience Northumbria
Visit an Open Day to get insight into what it's like to study Forensic Science. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.
Entry Requirements 2026/27
Standard Entry
56 to 72 Tariff Points
From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions and we understand that every applicant’s circumstances can be different, which is why we take a flexible approach when making offers for this course. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our university regardless of personal circumstances or background. Typically, offers range from 56 to 72 UCAS tariff points, but we’ll assess your individual circumstances and potential when reviewing your application
To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo
Subject Requirements:
There are no specific subject requirements for this course.
GCSE Requirements:
Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.
Additional Requirements:
There are no additional requirements for this course.
International Qualifications:
We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.
If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry
English Language Requirements:
International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).
*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications
Fees and Funding 2026/27 Entry
UK Fee in Year 1: £9,790
* In relation to fees for UK students: £9,790 is the tuition fee. The remaining fees relate to the International Soccer Academy, and accommodation fees. Tuition fees in the academic year 2027/28* will be £10,050 (subject to Parliamentary approval, along with 2026/27 fees) Fees are set in line with the UK Government's tuition fee cap. The University may increase fees in subsequent years in line with any changes to the tuition fee cap. Increases will be linked to inflation. For example, increases may be linked to RPIX (Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments) Students will be notified of any increase ahead of it taking effect. Student fee loans rise in line with the tuition fees cap. *if your course is longer than one year
* Fees subject to annual increases over the course of the period of study. Students will be liable for payment of any/all tuition fees which are not sponsored by their employer or other third party.
International Fee in Year 1:
This is the tuition fee for your first year of study. You should expect to pay tuition fees for every year of study. The University may increase fees in the second and subsequent years of your course at our discretion in line with any inflationary or other uplift. Students will be notified of any increase ahead of it taking effect.
Discover More about Fees, Scholarships and other Funding options available for UK and International applicants for 26/27 entry.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
Students should be prepared to buy some of the course textbooks. This would average around £150 per annum for all textbooks required. Students should be aware that they will be expected to cover the cost of transport for field trips within the local Tyne and Wear public transport network, which is estimated to be up to £50 per year.
* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here
else
To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.
Forensic Science (Extended Degree) BSc (Hons)
Any Questions?
Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
Accessibility and Student Inclusion
Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.
We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.
You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need.
We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:
