Forensic Science

Forensic science is the application of scientific principles and techniques to the investigation of crime and legal proceedings. It brings chemistry, biology, physics, and their analytical methods to bear on physical evidence, helping to establish what happened at a crime scene, identify individuals, and provide objective evidence that can be used in court. The discipline encompasses areas as diverse as DNA analysis, toxicology, ballistics, digital forensics, document examination, and fire investigation, and it requires both rigorous scientific training and an understanding of the legal and procedural context within which forensic evidence is used.

At the University of Hull, this four-year, full-time degree with a foundation year provides an accessible entry route into forensic science for students who need an additional preparatory year before entering the main programme. You will develop practical laboratory skills through hands-on work with real forensic scenarios and techniques, alongside the critical thinking required to interpret and present forensic evidence effectively. Mock courtroom exercises are part of the curriculum, giving you direct experience of how forensic evidence is evaluated and challenged in legal proceedings.

The foundation year provides the scientific grounding needed to engage successfully with degree-level material. The typical entry tariff of 104 points reflects the foundation year entry requirements.

Forensic science graduates work in police forensic units, private forensic laboratories, academic research, government scientific agencies, and the court system. Roles include scene of crime officer, forensic scientist, toxicologist, digital forensics examiner, and expert witness. Many graduates also find that their rigorous scientific training and analytical skills transfer effectively into pharmaceutical, environmental, food safety, and clinical laboratory roles.

Postgraduate study in forensic science, toxicology, or a related biological or chemical science is a route for those who wish to develop specialist expertise or pursue research careers.