Biological and Forensic Sciences BSc (Hons)

Undergraduate

This course combines the study of the rich diversity of biology and the living world, with the forensic challenge of using scientific analysis to investigate legal cases.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2024-25 2025-26

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich
Condensed first year available

UCAS codes

CF94

Start date

September 2025
January 2026 - condensed

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Course overview

You can expect to tackle a wide variety of challenges, ranging from developing new techniques to address the spread of infectious diseases, to using practical problem-solving skills to analyse evidence from crime scenes and bring justice to victims of crime.

The course aims to:

enable you to apply critical thinking skills to assess and solve problems in biological and forensic sciences, considering different perspectives and ethical approaches
develop your knowledge and understanding of the cellular and molecular basis of human health and disease, and of forensic science, including the criminal justice system processes and investigative practice
provide a broad and varied educational experience, with experiential learning including a wide range of community and international contexts, and multidisciplinary real-world problems.

The January start for this course is condensed in Year 1. Please see the ‘How you’ll learn’ section below for more details.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2025

Why you should study this course

A teaching team of multi-disciplinary experts from various subjects, including biologists, chemists, pharmacologists, toxicologists, forensic scientists, investigators and lawyers who bring their research and practical experiences into their teaching (staff are subject to change).
Hands-on practical experience in the Superlab+, the immersive crime scene simulation houses, and the outdoor search and decomposition facilities, so that you can walk confidently into a graduate job knowing that you have already used some of the same equipment used in hospital, commercial, police and research laboratories⁴.
A 3D printing lab where you can learn to design and 3D-print your own creations⁴.
Visits from expert guest lectures from professionals in their field, who provide insight into the numerous employability options available².
Opportunities to study international cold cases and take a global approach to your studies with collaborative online projects and the possibility of international field trips².

If you choose to start this course in January you will study exactly the same course but over a slightly shorter timescale in Year 1. This is ideal if you missed the September start, want to transfer from a different university or course or just need a bit more time to prepare for life at university.

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is currently accredited¹ by the following accrediting body for the 2025/26 intake.

The Royal Society of Biology

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) up to and including September 2028 entry for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

Our award-winning Green Superlab

With space for over 250 students and packed full of industry-standard equipment, the Coventry University Superlab is an amazing place to learn, experiment and discover. Find out what we’re doing in our Superlab to make it greener and reduce our waste and carbon emissions.

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

Biological and Forensic Sciences BSc (Hons)
Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Human Biosciences BSc (Hons)
Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

In your first year, you will join a vibrant community of students studying bioscience-related courses in biomedical science, human biosciences and pharmacology. The common first year ensures that you have a firm understanding of core areas of modern biosciences, from the cellular and molecular level through to whole body anatomy and physiology. These subjects are underpinned by relevant aspects of chemistry, maths and data analysis.

The topics are taught in an integrated manner to ensure that the links between disciplines such as biochemistry, physiology and pharmacology are evident. You will also have the opportunity to start to apply your knowledge to collecting and analysing evidence from a crime scene, in the Applied Techniques in Biology module. You are supported with the aim of becoming a confident, competent and safe laboratory scientist.

Modules

Human Physiology: Homeostasis and Health – 20 credits

You will study the physiology, organisation, structure and function of key physiologic/organ systems (e.g. nervous, musculo-skeletal, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, gastrointestinal, and renal systems). You will investigate cause-and-effect mechanisms and the interaction between systems in maintaining homeostasis and good health. There will be some discussion of consequences of homeostatic mechanisms breaking down to foster an understanding of human body function with an appreciation of disease states. You will be introduced to laboratory-based techniques, e.g. electromyography, electrocardiograms and spirometry, for the measurement of different physiological variables. You will also develop study skills such as accessing scientific literature, appropriate referencing and academic writing.

Compulsory

Genetics, Heredity and Evolution – 20 credits

This module will introduce the fundamental principles of inheritance, human genetics, population genetics and evolutionary principles. Inheritance patterns including human blood groups and mitochondrial inheritance patterns will be explored. Ethical issues surrounding access to genetic information will be discussed as well as the impact of historical events and projects. You will take part in collaborative working and develop your presentation and peer feedback skills.

Compulsory

Structure, Function and Analysis of Biomolecules – 20 credits

This module examines the structure and function of key biological molecules. Chemical principles relating to proteins, carbohydrates and lipids will be considered and linked to function. This module will also place emphasis on the fundamental techniques used to analyse biological molecules and the principles of these methods. The theory and practical application of relevant analytical methods will be considered. Throughout this module there will also be the development of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and fundamental laboratory procedures and techniques. You will be introduced to R, a programming language for statistical computing and graphics, and use it in the analysis of data.

Compulsory

Cell Communication, Structure and Function – 20 credits

You will examine cellular structure, communication, enzymes and metabolic pathways in this module. Cellular interactions and cell signalling will be included and considered alongside aspects of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. The energy used to drive these processes will be considered especially in relation to the role of enzymes of catalysts. Key metabolic and signalling pathways will be explored and considered in relation to drug development processes.

Compulsory

The Microbial World – 20 credits

This module introduces the different types of infectious agents that are relevant to human health and considers the different ways in which these agents can be cultured, enumerated, controlled and analysed. Relevant laboratory techniques are also developed and used to consolidate the theoretical teaching. The immune system and the key components are also introduced and examined in the way in which these are relevant to preventing and eliminating infection. Current and emerging topics such as vaccination and antimicrobial resistance are also discussed.

Compulsory

Applied Techniques in Biology – 20 credits

In this module you will explore the application of fundamental biology principles to practical exercises, to mimic real-life scenarios in commercial and applied biology. The module considers, among other things, our genetic information, its structure, function and inheritance (genotype), and how this determines the characteristics of an individual (phenotype).

The module introduces you to human individual variation and the central dogma of DNA to RNA to protein (transcription and translation). In addition, you will gain knowledge and skills relating to the retrieval and analysis of biological sequence information using bioinformatics tools and analytical software such as Excel and R. Ethical issues, such as increased access to genomic information, quality control and accreditation issues, will be considered. You will be supported to understand and practice effective collaboration strategies, including record keeping and use of collaborative software, plus giving and receiving of feedback.

Compulsory

In your second year, you will build on your knowledge of biology in areas such as genetics, microbiology, neurophysiology and human health and disease. You will study forensic aspects including crime scene evaluation, collection, preservation and analysis of evidence linked to legal aspects of criminal cases. You will continue to extend your skills and competencies, including effective communication to diverse audiences, in both scientific and non-scientific arenas. Individual professional development activities enable you to identify strategies and approaches to enhance your own capabilities and to build your professional profile.

Modules

Fundamentals of Forensic Science – 20 credits

This module aims to introduce you to the forensic science process and the preservation, collection and recovery of forensically relevant materials. You will begin to understand strategy and decision-making at a crime scene as well as the different roles of personnel attending a crime scene. Evidential logs and contemporaneous notes will be introduced as part of maintaining continuity of evidence, and the use of presumptive tests and contamination prevention (PPE, stepper plates, etc.) will also be covered. You will follow crime scene protocols and learn about the importance of standards, e.g. ISO17025 for investigation, process, management and quality assurance, to preserve evidence physically as well as for any probative value.

Laboratory sessions will include methods and interpretation of evidence types directly at the scene, such as pattern and impression evidence, e.g. finger-marks, blood spatter and you will have the practical opportunity to investigate a mock crime scene and collect and analyse evidence⁴. This module will support you in developing your abilities to solve complex problems, work effectively within diverse teams, confidently adapt to real-life challenges whilst acting ethically and with integrity.

Compulsory

Microorganisms in Human Health and Disease – 20 credits

This module explores prokaryotes and other microbes as commensals, agents of disease and as sources of antibiotics. Increasing evidence highlights the important role of our diverse gut microbiome to modulate metabolic processes and to protect against disease. Methods to study this diversity including contemporary molecular based techniques will be discussed, alongside the consequences of dysbiosis and the development of disease states. Pathogenic interactions between microorganisms, both cellular (bacteria, fungi and parasites) and viral, with human and nonhuman hosts will be explored. The module will also consider how human behaviour has impacted on microbial evolution, such as the selection of antibiotic resistance, and the use of microorganisms as antibiotic sources.

Compulsory

Human Genetic Diversity – 20 credits

This module explores natural genetic variation and epigenetics in humans. Genetic studies in humans are complex for both ethical reasons and because of limitations imposed by natural variation. Thus, the module will also consider the uses of model organisms for genetic studies. Topics addressed will include how tissue-specific gene expression, chromatin and DNA modifications, heterozygosity and dominance effects affect gene expression and phenotypes. Methods to analyse genetic variation, gene expression and new ways to explore the causes of disease phenotypes will be discussed.

Compulsory

Forensic Science and Evidence Analysis – 20 credits

This module aims to extend your knowledge of forensic protocols and analysis methods by applying them to the analysis of evidence recovered from different environments, such as outdoor and underwater crime scenes. Continuing the case study approach, you will consider how various evidence types are affected by the external environment and will consider how best to collect and analyse those evidence types within biological and forensic laboratories, in order to preserve the evidence integrity. You will investigate first-hand how the application of forensic science can vary substantially with both the nature of the scene and of the crime, and how collection, preservation and subsequent analysis of different evidence types requires some flexibility.

Key laboratory techniques will be covered including DNA profiling, anthropological techniques, and comparative microscopical methods for soil, hair and fibre analysis. This module will support you in your ability to solve complex problems, confidently adapt to changing circumstances and challenges, whilst acting ethically, responsibly and with integrity.

Compulsory

The Immune System in Health and Disease – 20 credits

This module will explore the role played by our immune system in both health and disease. The module will consider both the innate and adaptive immune responses and their actions to protect the host in cases of pathogen attack. It will also explore how chronic inflammation, rather than being protective, is now recognised as a determining factor in several non-communicable diseases. Dysfunctions of the immune system, including hypersensitivity, autoimmunity and immunodeficiency will also be covered, alongside immune responses to transplants and manipulation of the immune system for therapeutic purposes.

Compulsory

Neurophysiology – 20 credits

Mental disorders have significant impacts on health, plus social and economic consequences worldwide. This module introduces you to the applied physiology of the brain and nervous system. The physiological disruption of normal processes of neurotransmission, resulting in disorders of movement, memory, behaviour, anxiety and mood are discussed. You will be introduced to research methods and experimental design for the investigation of key aspects related to understanding the function and dysfunction of the nervous system or novel therapies for the treatment of cognitive disorders, disorders of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves.

Compulsory

Our sandwich degree option allows a full year work placement, which can be taken abroad, or you can undertake a study year abroad². Previous students in our department have been successful in securing places to study in Spain, France, Canada and the US.

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee³ of £1,250. For more information, please go to the Fees and Funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or participating institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Modules

UK Work Placement – 0 credits

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement² undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement² undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

The final study year will build on your knowledge of biological and forensic sciences. You will further develop research skills and will undertake a research project which will be designed and reported with the support of an academic supervisor, providing a capstone experience to the course. You will also study the application of cutting-edge forensic techniques to real-life cold cases and test your presentation skills reporting forensic evidence in a mock courtroom⁴.

Modules

Infectious Disease: Present and Future Challenges – 20 credits

This module focuses on the varied infectious disease challenges that affect human populations in different communities worldwide. It discusses the epidemiology of emerging and re-emerging diseases, the increasing problems of healthcare acquired infection, the rise of antibiotic resistance and strategies to counter this. It will also consider the continuing global burden of neglected tropical diseases. This module relates to Goal 3 of the United Nations' (UNs) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the target to end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable disease.

Compulsory

Forensic Futures: Contemporary and Global Issues – 20 credits

This module aims to explore current and international issues and advanced developments in forensic research, analysis, ethics and legislation. Employing an interdisciplinary approach, a range of topics will be explored, ideas introduced and critiqued in depth with reference to current literature and research developments. You will critically appraise real-life cold cases, in the light of new developments and techniques in forensic science, to examine the previous limitations and what new investigative leads could be generated. This module will also enable you to appreciate the complexity of cases crossing international borders, in terms of difference in accreditation, standards of evidence and forensic procedures.

The module builds upon the UK-specific learning from previous modules and extends this to international collaborations. The module also addresses the issues of effective communication between different countries and cultures, and the skills required to operate effectively in these high-pressure professional settings. This module will support you in being mindful of global challenges, inequalities and opportunities, being globally, culturally, socially and self-aware, and being open to new ways of thinking. It will also encourage you to share your knowledge and expertise, support and champion the needs and development of others, and maintain a socially conscious and sustainable outlook.

Compulsory

Research Design – 20 credits

In this module, you will prepare for your final year research project and for employment or further study after graduation. The module will support you through the process of defining your research question, planning your experiments, and considering the most appropriate data analysis methods. The module will enhance skills in literature searching, experimental design, scientific writing, data processing and statistical analysis. You will be required to submit your proposal for ethical and health and safety approval, and to address key aspects of project management and organisation.

Compulsory

Crime Scene to Courtroom – 20 credits

This module is the culmination of the forensic science teaching on this course and aims to bring together your learning in a fully integrated ‘crime scene to court’ structure. Greater focus will be given to different types of offences and multiple evidence types, and more complex cases, synthesising the knowledge you have gained previously. The module builds upon the forensic analysis techniques previously learned and concentrates on the appropriate application of these techniques to a range of offence types, including homicides, sex offences and drugs offences.

This culminates in an assessment structure where you will be required to defend your interpretation of a professional evidential reporting statement (case report) in a mock courtroom in a traditional adversarial style⁴. This module will support you in being agile and open to new ways of thinking, and supporting and championing the needs of others. It will allow you to demonstrate your ability to communicate with influence and impact, whilst acting ethically, in an unbiased manner and with integrity at all times.

Compulsory

Genomics, Disease and Personalised Therapy – 20 credits

Our increasing genomic knowledge has led to advances in medical treatment such that therapies may now be tailored to the unique molecular or genetic characteristics of individual patients. This module will consider the impact of genomic knowledge and advances in genomic analysis on the understanding of mechanisms of disease, and the potential for development of these personalised therapies. It will also consider how applicable these approaches are worldwide.

Compulsory

Independent Project – 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to conduct a piece of investigative research, which may be laboratory or non-laboratory based, in a specialised area of forensic or biological sciences. This module follows on from the 'Research Design' module and you'll implement your research proposals in this module. The variety and scope of this module allows you to pursue your own interests, potentially linked to future career aspirations, and to integrate prior skills and knowledge.

This module, together with 'Research Design', provides a capstone experience and is a key requirement for graduation with an Honours classification. You are supported and guided by your supervisor, but are encouraged to develop independence of thought, and the ability and confidence to adapt and evolve your research ideas, based on reflective practice. The skills and competencies developed during the project period that enhance employability will be articulated in a short personal skills reflection.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

The teaching and learning strategy integrates underpinning theoretical principles with the development of practical and professional competencies. The teaching and learning approaches include:

keynote lectures
group interactive workshops
seminars
laboratory and forensic crime-scene simulation sessions⁴
directed and self-directed group-based and individual study.

If you choose to start this course in January it will be run as a condensed programme. You’ll start your course in January and finish your first year in August. Upon successful completion of Year 1, you will progress onto Year 2 in September and then continue to start subsequent years of your course in September, completing your degree at the same time as the September starters unless you opt to do a placement year.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours:

Teaching hours vary each semester, year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You'll be digging deeper into topics, review what you've learnt and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you'll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods may include:

tests
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
individual assignments
laboratory competency tests
portfolios
mock court room oral testimony
posters
critical reviews
reflections
case study-based approaches with scenarios based on real world issues.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

Previous students in our department have been successful in securing places to study in Spain, France, Canada and the US.

The course typically attracts many international students, providing a diverse learning experience. This can enhance the discussion of issues such as genetic inheritance, criminal justice and biomedical interventions and provides all students with a global perspective of developments in both human biology and forensic science.

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability, and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements are therefore not guaranteed².

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

Requirement	What we're looking for
UCAS points	112
A Level	BBC to include Biology. Excludes General Studies.
BTEC	DMM in the BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma in a Biological Science subject. Excludes Health and Social Care.
IB Diploma	30 points to include a minimum of 5 points in Biology at Higher Level.
GCSE	5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above to include English, Mathematics and two Sciences.
Access to HE	The Access to HE Diploma to include 30 Level 3 credits above Merit of which 15 must be at Distinction in Biology units. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual offers and Fair Access Scheme

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme, you could automatically receive a contextual offer that may be up to 24 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international foundation year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Biosciences will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Not got the required grades? We offer this degree with an integrated foundation year.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	2025/26 fees TBC 2024/25 fees - £9,250 per year	Not available
EU	2025/26 fees TBC 2024/25 fees - £9,250 per year with EU Support Bursary 2025/26 fees TBC 2024/25 fees - £18,300 per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	2025/26 fees TBC 2024/25 fees - £18,300 per year	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ of £1,250 to cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see the university’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of international scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip
any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

Condensed course – January start date

If you choose to start this course in January please make sure you check the Fees and Finance page for more information. Although starting this course in January does not prohibit you from being eligible for student finance, the way it is paid in your first year differs from those who start their course in September.

If you start the course in January, your tuition fees will be paid in accordance with the university’s Tuition Fees, Refund and Withdrawal Terms and Conditions for January starters and for any further years of study, your fees will be paid in accordance with the terms for September starters.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

This course is taught at the Coventry University main campus and you will benefit from using our SuperLab+ where you can learn to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques using the same equipment found in hospital, commercial, police and research laboratories⁴.

Forensic crime scene tape over an open door

Community houses

Immersive crime scene simulation houses, outdoor search and decomposition facilities.

SuperLab

The Alison Gingell building contains a state-of-the-art SuperLab. The lab's facilities include equipment for microscopy, DNA analysis and forensic testing.

Female in a white lab coat holding a plastic beaker, with a male and female standing behind wearing lab coats

Analytical Chemistry suite

The Analytical Chemistry Suite is a dedicated space for chemistry-based teaching. Students can complete ‘wet’ chemistry and preparatory work, complemented by a comprehensive suite of analytical equipment which includes ICP-OES, uHPLC, HPLC, Fluorescence Spectrometers, UV Spectrometers, GC, and GC-MS.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

Highly multi-disciplinary in its approach, the course brings together a wide range of key subjects. In biology, the course explores areas like biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, immunology, human physiology, and microbiology. Forensic science topics covered include blood spatter, fingerprints, toxicology, anthropology and taphonomy. This combination of the two subjects is unique in the field and gives our graduates a broad perspective that can be very appealing to employers.

Graduates also gain hands-on experience of DNA profiling, as well as the digital fluency with databases and bioinformatics that underpins both areas of science. Students graduate with the knowledge to tackle challenges such as stopping the spread of disease, improving public health, as well as the practical skills and abilities to analyse, interpret and present evidence. This side specialism in forensic sciences also provides excellent tangible evidence of problem-solving, critical thinking, anti-contamination technique, good record-keeping, teamwork, interpersonal skills and professionalism.

Our graduates are equipped to pursue a wide range of careers. The extensive biology content supports employment in biological research and industry, including pharmaceutical, microbiology or food quality-testing laboratories, as well as medical and scientific equipment sales. The forensic science elements further broaden employment options, to include DNA analyst, DNA reporting officer and forensic scientist jobs. The multi-disciplinary course prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, such as data analysis, scientific writing and teaching roles.

Where our graduates work

Our graduates have gone on to work in places such as Cellmark, Key Forensics, West Midlands Police and Metropolitan Police.

Two students sat at a desk working on a laptop

Discover Phoenix+

Phoenix+ brings you together with other students to learn, experience and develop essential knowledge and skills. Whatever destination you choose, it's about preparing you for life after university.

Learn more about Phoenix+

How to apply

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time students can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If this course has a part-time option you will need to apply directly to the university.

Apply via the portal

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
HLSU248

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International mini guide for an overview of study options and why you should study with us.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

⁴Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

⁵Placements

Satisfactory health clearance and enhanced criminal record disclosure may be required. As part of the health clearance checks, you will be required to provide information about your immunity and vaccination status. You will also be required to provide information about your COVID-19 vaccination status. We, therefore, recommend that you are fully vaccinated including the COVID-19 vaccine. The information you provide will be used to determine your eligibility to go on placement(s). Placements are provided at the placement provider’s discretion. The university is, therefore, unable to guarantee the provision of placements or the location and type of placement offered.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.