Chemistry with Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons) with foundation year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Surrey

Program Overview

This degree is perfect if you’re fascinated by chemistry and curious about solving real-world mysteries through forensic science. You’ll get hands-on experience in the lab while learning how to apply chemistry to criminal investigations, and the foundation year gives you the confidence to build up your scientific skills before diving into the main degree.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year (Year 0)
The foundation year is all about building your confidence in science. You’ll explore Foundational Chemistry, Applied Chemistry & Biology, and Mathematics A, giving you the essential grounding in chemistry, biology, and maths. It’s a great way to make sure you’re ready for the more challenging BSc modules that follow.

Year 1 (Level 4)
In your first year of the BSc, you’ll discover the core principles of chemistry — from organic and inorganic chemistry to analytical and physical chemistry — while also getting an introduction to forensic science with modules like Fundamentals of Forensic Science. You’ll start developing your lab skills and learn how to solve problems and analyze real data, setting the foundation for your future investigations.

Year 2 (Level 5)
In year two, you’ll take your knowledge to the next level with modules such as Forensic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry & Drug Discovery, and Computer Modelling in Chemistry. This year is about connecting theory to practice, understanding chemical evidence, and seeing how chemistry is used in real forensic cases.

Year 3 (Level 6)
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics like Method Development and Applications in Analytical Chemistry and Topics in Forensic Science. You’ll explore things like DNA, fingerprint analysis, toxicology, and body fluids, learning how to collect, interpret, and present evidence just like a professional forensic scientist.

Focus Areas

Forensic techniques, core chemistry disciplines, modern instrumentation, and real-world criminal investigation

Learning Outcomes

You’ll gain strong practical and analytical skills, learn how to apply chemistry to forensic problems, and build confidence in interpreting data and presenting scientific evidence professionally.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and partially satisfies the academic requirements for becoming a Chartered Chemist (CChem).

Reputation (Employability)

Surrey graduates are highly sought after — 96% of chemistry and chemical engineering students are in work or further study within 15 months. Small class sizes mean you get plenty of support from expert staff, so you’re never just a number.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Surrey, you won’t just sit in lectures learning theory — you’ll get hands-on, real-world experience from the very start. You’ll spend plenty of time in fully equipped labs, working with the same advanced instruments that professional forensic chemists use. From tackling practical experiments to collaborating on investigative projects, you’ll build the skills and confidence to handle real forensic challenges. Surrey’s approach is all about learning by doing, so you’ll graduate ready to step straight into the lab or a crime scene analysis environment.

Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:

State-of-the-art laboratories: Work in modern facilities like the Formulations & Materials Lab and Synthesis Lab, complete with fume hoods, centrifuges, and sonicators.
Advanced instrumentation: Gain experience with tools such as NMR spectrometers, GC‑MS, LC‑MS, ICP‑MS, X‑ray diffractometers, and FT‑IR.
Team projects: Collaborate with classmates on hands-on investigative challenges, mirroring how real forensic chemists work together.
Digital tools & software: Learn to use professional chemistry software like ChemDraw, Reaxys, and access databases like Web of Science and Scopus for research and analysis.
Professional insight: While the foundation-year route doesn’t include a mandatory placement, Surrey offers optional professional training years in other course variants, giving students real workplace experience.
Safety and reporting skills: Master the safe handling of chemicals, experimental design, data collection, and technical report writing, all essential for a career in forensic science.
Research-focused environment: Benefit from Surrey’s strong chemistry research culture, exploring interdisciplinary projects relevant to forensic applications.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this program means you’ll have a unique combination of chemistry expertise and forensic investigation skills, making you highly sought after in the job market. Many of our graduates step into roles such as forensic scientist, analytical or research chemist, process chemist, or quality control specialist in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to criminal investigation. Here’s how Surrey helps you turn your degree into a successful career:

Support from the Surrey Careers & Employability Service: Get tailored guidance, CV and interview coaching, networking opportunities with employers, and access to the Professional Training placement scheme.
Employment stats & salaries: Around 96% of Surrey chemistry graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating, with an average starting salary of £32,622.
University–industry partnerships: Surrey has strong links with organisations such as LGC Forensics, EDF Energy, and pharmaceutical companies, giving you real-world exposure and professional connections.
Accreditation benefits: This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), helping you meet academic requirements for becoming a Chartered Chemist (CChem).
Graduate outcomes: Alumni go on to exciting roles in forensic laboratories, research labs, and chemical industries, applying both analytical and investigative skills.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you could continue your studies by:

Progressing to the MChem Chemistry with Forensic Investigation at Surrey to deepen your expertise.
Pursuing a PhD in Chemistry or Forensic Science, focusing on areas like toxicology, drug analysis, or molecular forensics, setting you up for a career in research or academia.