Chemistry with Forensic Science MChem

Improvements in analytical techniques have led to advances in forensic science. Resonance Raman spectroscopy can be used to detect painting forgeries; DNA fingerprinting, discovered at the University of Leicester, can be used to place a suspect at a crime scene; modern chromatographic techniques combined with mass spectrometry can be used to detect steroids or their metabolites in urine. These are just some of the many examples of how improvements in chemical analysis have been applied to forensic investigations.

If you choose to study for a BSc or MChem degree in Chemistry with Forensic Science you will gain a good understanding of the applications of chemistry across the forensic science field. You will have the opportunity to learn about scientific investigations and the legal system alongside the fundamentally important aspects of chemistry. This will ensure that on graduation you will have the skills necessary for career prospects in both the forensic science and chemistry sectors.

On the MChem course you will discover how chemistry is applied to criminal investigations and the role of science in providing substantial evidence for the Criminal Justice System. The specialised training on offer will give you skills that are highly sought after in forensic science. This degree builds upon the strengths of the University of Leicester, not least our internationally-renowned expertise in Law, Genetics and Biochemistry. You will also visit a crime scene house.

The Department of Chemistry at Leicester is one of the best in the UK for both teaching and research. We have a reputation as a friendly, supportive department that produces highly trained graduates with skills valued by employers. This is because we offer high quality courses that are designed to give you a wide range of employment opportunities, and are carefully structured to ensure you will cover all the relevant topics.

Whichever degree you study, you will always benefit from our excellent teaching, our well-equipped laboratories, our high-quality welfare provision and academic support. You will also reap the benefits of the cutting-edge research being carried out in the department by our academics – the same academics who teach you.

Our specialist research areas include atmospheric chemistry, chemical biology, materials and interfaces, spectroscopy and dynamics, and sustainable synthesis and catalysis. You can be sure of learning about the very latest breakthroughs in each area throughout your course. In your final year, you will carry out your own personal research project, working under one of our academic staff and applying the knowledge and practical skills which you have gained on the course – placing you at the cutting-edge of chemistry research.

What's the difference?
Study for a BSc and you will receive rigorous training in chemistry and related, transferable skills – which will put you in a strong position to apply for a range of different employment sectors. Or you may want to continue your studies by applying for a Masters degree (MSc).

If you specifically want to find work as a chemist, whether in industry or the public sector, you should consider an MChem. The extra depth of experience and knowledge you will gain is valued by prospective employers that use chemical processes, and will keep you competitive in the job market against graduates who may have studied for the longer degrees taught in some European countries. Alternatively, an MChem provides a solid basis for progressing to a PhD.

Each of our three MChem degrees share a common first two years with the respective BSc, during which you can switch between them (transfer from BSc to MChem is subject to satisfactory progress). Both the MChem and BSc degrees are taught and assessed to the same high standards. The difference is one of content, not quality.

Also please note that the Year Abroad option is not available on our BSc degrees.