MChem Forensic Chemistry

4 Years On Campus Accelerated-bachelors Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The MChem Forensic Chemistry at the University of Lincoln gives you the perfect mix of chemistry and forensic science, teaching you how to apply scientific knowledge to solve real-world crimes. It’s ideal for students who are curious, detail-oriented, and want a hands-on, practical education that could lead to careers in crime investigation, forensic labs, or public safety.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a solid chemistry foundation with modules like Introduction to Energy, Change and Electronic Structure and Molecular Structure, Bonding and Mechanism, learning the principles behind atoms, molecules, and reactions. You’ll also get your first taste of forensic science with Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Laboratory Analysis, where you learn to handle evidence correctly and carry out basic lab techniques safely. These early experiences develop your confidence in both chemistry and investigative practice.

Year 2
Year two digs deeper into chemistry with modules such as Stability, Structure and Mechanism in Molecular Systems and Chemistry of Activated Systems and Radicals, exploring advanced reactions, materials, and analytical methods. You’ll enhance your forensic skills through Advanced Crime Scene Investigation and Marks and Traces Evidence, learning to detect, recover, and analyse trace evidence like fibres, glass, and marks. Lab work becomes more hands-on, and modules like Quality Assurance and Regulation prepare you for professional lab environments.

Year 3
In your third year, chemistry and forensics come together in a more specialized way. Core modules like Defining Shape, Symmetry and Stereochemistry and Heterogeneous Systems, Surfaces and Nanoscience introduce advanced materials and analytical techniques. In forensic modules like Forensic Toxicology and Drugs of Abuse, you’ll study how substances behave in the body and how to detect them — essential knowledge for a forensic chemist. You’ll also complete a research project and can choose optional modules such as Biological Chemistry or Fire, Explosives and Nuclear Forensics to follow your interests.

Year 4 (Industrial / Research Placement + Advanced Study)
Your final year offers the chance to gain real-world experience through a full-year industrial or research placement. Alongside this, advanced modules in areas such as method development, bioanalysis, and explosives forensics let you apply your knowledge to practical, real-life scenarios. This combination ensures you graduate with both the expertise and confidence to enter the forensic field or further research.

Focus areas: "Analytical Chemistry, Crime Scene Investigation, Toxicology & Drugs Analysis, Trace Evidence & Forensics, Materials & Nanoscience, Instrumentation & Research Skills"

Learning outcomes: "You’ll graduate with a strong understanding of chemistry, practical skills in forensic investigation, lab techniques, research methods, quality assurance, and the ability to apply science to solve complex real-world problems."

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), ensuring your degree meets professional standards recognized across chemistry and forensic industries.

Reputation (employability & satisfaction): Lincoln’s chemistry courses are highly regarded, with top UK rankings for student satisfaction and excellent employment outcomes for graduates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Lincoln, studying MChem Forensic Chemistry means you won’t just be stuck in lecture halls — you’ll be actively learning by doing. From day one, you’ll work in fully equipped chemistry labs, run experiments, analyse real samples, and even take part in crime-scene simulations. In your final year, there’s the exciting opportunity to do a full-year placement, either in industry or research, so you graduate with hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll also develop teamwork, professional skills, and learn how to handle real-world challenges in a safe, supportive environment. Here’s how that looks in practice:

Hands-on lab work: Using advanced lab equipment, you’ll carry out organic and inorganic synthesis, chemical analysis, and molecular characterisation in modules like Practical Chemistry and Forensic Laboratory Analysis.
Crime-scene simulations & evidence handling: Modules like Crime Scene Investigation and Marks and Traces Evidence let you practice preserving and documenting evidence, just like a real forensic scientist.
Quality assurance & regulatory training: You’ll learn lab best practices, chain-of-custody procedures, and legal compliance through modules such as Quality Assurance and Regulation.
Research projects: In later years, structured projects and optional advanced modules (like toxicology, explosives analysis, and sensor technologies) give you a chance to design experiments, analyse data, and present findings independently.
Industrial or research placement: The fourth-year placement allows you to gain real-world experience in industry or research labs, applying what you’ve learned to practical problems and building professional connections.
Access to specialist facilities: You’ll have access to high-spec labs and equipment, including spectroscopy, chromatography, and materials characterisation tools, housed in purpose-built spaces like the Joseph Banks Laboratories and Janet Lane-Claypon Building.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Lincoln’s MChem Forensic Chemistry leave ready to step into exciting, hands-on roles where chemistry meets real-world problem solving. Many go on to become forensic chemists, crime scene analysts, toxicology or analytical lab specialists, or research and development scientists in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, or law enforcement labs. The combination of in-depth chemistry knowledge, practical forensic skills, and a full-year placement gives you the confidence and experience to thrive in professional settings or pursue further study.

Here’s how Lincoln helps you make that next step:

Career support & employability services: Through tailored modules and workshops, you’ll get help with CVs, interviews, and industry projects that mirror real challenges, ensuring you’re ready to impress employers.
Industry connections & partnerships: The University collaborates with pharmaceutical companies, forensic labs, and analytical firms to provide placement opportunities and industry projects, giving you valuable contacts and hands-on experience.
Strong graduate outcomes: Around 80% of recent graduates are in highly skilled roles within 15 months, working in research, protective services, or science-based industries.
Earning potential: Early-career chemistry graduates from Lincoln report median salaries around £24,000, with opportunities to grow as you gain experience.
Accreditation & professional credibility: With Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) accreditation, your degree is recognized by employers and provides a solid foundation for professional registration or further qualification.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re keen to keep learning, you can move on to a postgraduate Master’s in forensic science, analytical chemistry, or related fields — or even a PhD focusing on areas like toxicology, trace evidence, or materials analysis. Lincoln’s strong research environment also lets you get involved in advanced projects, giving you the chance to specialise in your favourite area of forensic or chemical science.