BSc (Hons) Chemistry with Forensic Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Kent

Program Overview

This course combines the core principles of chemistry with the exciting world of forensic science, giving you the skills to analyse chemical substances and investigate crime scenes. It’s perfect for students who love chemistry but also want to apply it to real-world problems, like solving crimes and understanding evidence.

Curriculum structure:

Stage 1 (Year 1):
In your first year, you’ll lay the foundations of chemistry, learning how atoms and molecules behave and how chemical reactions work. You’ll study modules like Fundamentals of Chemistry, Organic Chemistry 1: Structure & Reactivity, and Inorganic Chemistry 1: Periodicity and Metals, all while developing essential laboratory skills that will prepare you for more advanced work.

Stage 2 (Year 2):
Year two introduces more specialised chemistry alongside forensic applications. You’ll explore Analytical Chemistry 1: Methods and Validation, Biochemistry: Biomolecules and Enzymes, and Fundamental Forensic Techniques & Archaeology. This is where you start applying your chemistry knowledge to forensic evidence, learning how to analyse samples, carry out experiments, and handle real-world forensic challenges.

Stage 3 (Year 3):
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics and complete an independent project. Modules like Analytical Chemistry 2: Advanced Methods, Chemistry for the Analysis of Trace Evidence, and Contemporary Forensic Practice and the Expert Witness let you tackle complex problems, interpret trace evidence, and even practice giving expert-witness-style reports. This is your chance to bring everything you’ve learned together and showcase your skills.

Focus areas: “Core chemistry (organic, inorganic, physical) · Analytical methods & instrumentation · Forensic evidence recovery & trace analysis · Legal and expert-witness practice”

Learning outcomes: “You’ll graduate with strong chemistry knowledge, the ability to analyse and interpret forensic evidence, excellent laboratory and research skills, and the confidence to work ethically in chemical or forensic careers.”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This degree is fully accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and aligns with professional standards from the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, giving you a strong start for careers in chemistry or forensic science.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Kent is ranked 1st for forensic science in the 2023 Guardian University Guide, and globally in the top 400 universities by QS. Graduates go on to careers in areas like pharmaceuticals, the Ministry of Defence, crime laboratories, and forensic consultancy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Kent, you don’t just learn chemistry and forensic science in lectures — you get to roll up your sleeves and experience it first-hand. From day one, you’ll work in state-of-the-art laboratories and realistic forensic settings, using professional-grade tools and equipment to solve real scientific and investigative problems. The programme is designed so you leave with confidence in practical lab skills, forensic techniques, and research methods, ready for work in industry or further study.

Some of the exciting hands-on opportunities include:

Cutting-edge Chemistry Labs: Work with glove boxes, Schlenk lines, high-temperature ovens, a CEM microwave reactor, and a 400 MHz NMR facility, all allowing you to explore organic, inorganic, and analytical chemistry in depth.
Crime Scene House & Evidence Garden: Practice real forensic investigations in a specially designed house and outdoor area, learning how to map crime scenes, collect trace evidence, and analyse samples just like a professional.
Independent Research Projects: In your final year, carry out your own project using the department’s top-tier facilities, giving you experience designing experiments, collecting data, and presenting your findings.
Work Placements & Internships: Opportunities for placements or a sandwich year help you gain real-world experience and build professional connections in chemistry or forensic science.
Campus Facilities: Enjoy full access to Kent’s libraries, IT resources, and study spaces, all conveniently located near labs and classrooms for a seamless learning experience.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this course opens the door to a wide range of exciting careers where you can put your chemistry and forensic skills into action. Many students move into roles such as analytical chemist, forensic scientist, R&D scientist, or laboratory technician, working in crime labs, pharmaceutical companies, or research facilities. Kent gives you the tools and connections to turn your knowledge into a rewarding career:

Careers & Employability Support: Kent’s Careers & Employability Service offers tailored advice, CV help, interview coaching, and access to employer events, all focused on science and forensic careers.
Strong Employment Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work for companies like GSK, Pfizer, and the Ministry of Defence, or in crime labs and forensic consultancy roles.
Year in Industry Option: Take a paid placement between your second and final year to gain real-world experience and make valuable professional connections.
Accreditation Value: The course is fully accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), giving your degree long-term professional recognition in both chemistry and forensic science.
Graduate Destinations: Alumni roles include molecular biologist, formulation scientist, digital forensic analyst, and forensic practitioner in police or private labs.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can continue your studies with postgraduate courses such as the Forensic Science MSc at Kent. This allows you to specialise further, enhance your research skills, and open doors to advanced forensic roles or even a PhD.