BSc (Hons) Forensic Chemistry

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

If you’re fascinated by chemistry and curious about how science helps solve crimes, BSc (Hons) Forensic Chemistry at the University of Lincoln could be perfect for you. This course blends core chemistry with real-world forensic science, giving you hands-on experience in labs and crime scenes, so you can confidently analyse evidence and contribute to justice.

Curriculum Structure

First Year
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the building blocks of chemistry through modules like Core Chemistry 1.1: Introduction to Energy, Change and Electronic Structure and Core Chemistry 1.2: Molecular Structure, Bonding and Mechanism. At the same time, Crime Scene Investigation introduces you to the basics of securing and documenting a scene, collecting evidence, and understanding how labs and law enforcement work together. Practical lab modules like Practical Chemistry 1.1 & 1.2 ensure you feel at home with lab equipment, while Introduction to Professional Practice and Forensic Laboratory Analysis give insight into the professional standards and skills you’ll use in the real world.

Second Year
In year two, you’ll dive deeper into chemistry and forensic techniques. Core Chemistry 2.1: Stability, Structure and Mechanism in Molecular Systems and Core Chemistry 2.2: Chemistry of Activated Systems and Radicals strengthen your understanding of reactions and molecular behaviour. You’ll also tackle more advanced crime scene work through Advanced Crime Scene Investigation and Marks and Traces Evidence, learning how to detect and analyse fibres, hair, glass, fingerprints, and other trace materials. The year continues to build your lab skills while introducing professional practice and quality assurance, so you’re ready to meet real-world forensic standards.

Third Year
Your final year focuses on applying everything you’ve learned and exploring specialisations. Core Chemistry 3.1: Defining Shape, Symmetry and Stereochemistry and Core Chemistry 3.2: Heterogeneous Systems, Surfaces and Nanoscience take your chemistry knowledge to the next level. You’ll also study Forensic Toxicology and Drugs of Abuse, analysing biological samples for substances critical in criminal cases. The highlight is the Structured Project, giving you the chance to design and complete your own research, preparing you for either a forensic career or postgraduate study. Optional modules let you explore niche areas like biological chemistry or fire, explosives, and nuclear forensics, shaping your degree around your interests.

Focus areas: "Core and analytical chemistry; crime scene investigation; trace evidence analysis; forensic toxicology; scientific research and professional practice."

Learning outcomes: "Analyse chemical and biological evidence, recover and interpret trace materials from crime scenes, follow strict lab procedures, conduct independent forensic research, and communicate scientific findings clearly."

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, giving your degree strong professional credibility.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Lincoln is recognised for excellent student satisfaction and employability in chemistry-related subjects, ranking among the UK’s top for quality and career preparation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Lincoln, Forensic Chemistry isn’t just about reading textbooks — it’s about getting hands-on and learning by doing. From your very first year, you’ll be in modern, fully equipped chemistry labs, handling real forensic tools, conducting experiments, and even simulating crime-scene investigations. You’ll gain the kind of practical skills that employers and labs are looking for, while working in spaces designed to mirror real forensic and analytical environments.

Here’s how you’ll put theory into practice:

State-of-the-art chemistry labs — Work in specialist labs like those in the Janet Lane-Claypon Building, using professional-grade instruments to explore synthesis, analysis, and forensic chemistry.
Hands-on practical modules — From Practical Chemistry 1.1 & 1.2 to advanced lab sessions, you’ll learn essential lab techniques, safety, and analytical skills that grow more sophisticated as you progress.
Crime-scene investigation training — Practice collecting and documenting evidence, securing crime scenes, and understanding how labs and law enforcement interact — all within structured modules.
Research projects and industry-style challenges — Collaborate with academic staff on research or solve real-world forensic problems through professional practice modules.
Optional work placements — Gain real employment experience with short-term or extended placements in industry, helping you bridge the gap between university and your career.

With these opportunities, every week offers a chance to develop practical skills, collaborate with peers, and experience the excitement of real forensic chemistry.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating in Forensic Chemistry from Lincoln opens doors to exciting careers where you can apply your chemistry skills to solve real-world problems. Many of our students go on to work as forensic chemists, analytical chemists, toxicology analysts, or crime scene laboratory technicians, applying their knowledge in labs, law enforcement, or private industry. The course equips you with practical lab experience, evidence-handling skills, and scientific communication abilities that make you highly employable:

Support from university careers services — Through “professional practice” modules, you’ll get guidance on CV writing, interview preparation, and industry-standard project management, so you’re ready for the job market.
Strong graduate employment — Around 95% of physical sciences graduates from Lincoln find work after completing their degree, with typical starting salaries around £26,500, giving you both confidence and security as you start your career.
University–industry connections — Collaborate on real-world projects with companies across pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, energy, and analytical sectors, gaining experience that employers value.
Professional accreditation — The degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, which boosts your credibility and opens doors for both professional and research roles.
Broad career opportunities — Graduates move into forensic laboratories, law enforcement, research, pharmaceutical labs, environmental monitoring, and quality assurance roles, giving you flexibility to choose a path that fits your interests.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can take your studies further with a master’s or postgraduate degree in forensic science, toxicology, analytical chemistry, or related areas. If research interests you, pursuing a postgraduate research degree can lead to high-level analytical or forensic research roles, giving you even more exciting career possibilities.