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Clearing offers from 48 UCAS tariff points. Subject-specific requirements still apply. See the entry requirements section for details.
Forensic chemistry is the application of scientific knowledge and investigation to law enforcement. From identifying substances to analysing crime scenes, the skills of a forensic chemist often play a vital role in criminal investigations.
The course provides students with the opportunity to develop the skills of a professional forensic chemist, including laboratory examination, report writing, crime scene analysis and courtroom presentation. With a broad spectrum of modules, it is possible to specialise in areas such as DNA analysis, biological chemistry, or nuclear forensics.
The School of Chemistry takes a research-centred approach to teaching and learning, and students have the chance to work closely with leading academics on collaborative research projects.
Forensic chemistry is the application of scientific knowledge and investigation to law enforcement. From identifying substances to analysing crime scenes, the skills of a forensic chemist often play a vital role in criminal investigations.
The course provides students with the opportunity to develop the skills of a professional forensic chemist, including laboratory examination, report writing, crime scene analysis and courtroom presentation. With a broad spectrum of modules, it is possible to specialise in areas such as DNA analysis, biological chemistry, or nuclear forensics.
The School of Chemistry takes a research-centred approach to teaching and learning, and students have the chance to work closely with leading academics on collaborative research projects.
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Through accreditation, the Royal Society of Chemistry aims to promote good practices in the university education of chemical scientists, and ensure that future practising scientists are knowledgeable and competent.
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✔ Combine chemistry with forensic investigation The curriculum is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and combines core chemistry and practical laboratory development with forensic-focused study.
You'll investigate areas such as:
✔ Develop practical laboratory expertise Forensic employers value graduates who can confidently apply scientific techniques in laboratory environments.
You'll gain experience in:
✔ Understand the science behind evidence Modern forensic investigations rely heavily on analytical chemistry. You'll learn how chemical techniques are used to examine substances, identify unknown materials, and support investigative processes.
Topics may include:
✔ Build career-ready scientific skills Professional practice is embedded through the course, helping students develop the habits expected in scientific workplaces. Throughout the course, you'll develop skills valued by employers across forensic, scientific, and analytical industries, including:
These transferable skills can support careers both within and beyond forensic science.
✔ Learn in a supportive scientific community 51±¬ÁÏÍø offers a learning environment where students can engage closely with academic staff and receive support throughout their studies. This can be particularly valuable in a practical subject that combines both chemistry and forensic investigation.
✔ Research-informed teaching
Students learn from academics engaged in scientific research, helping connect classroom learning with contemporary developments in chemistry and forensic science.
✔ Career-focused learning
The course helps students understand how their laboratory, analytical, and communication skills can transfer into a wide range of UK scientific, regulatory, and public-sector careers. Students develop professional skills alongside scientific knowledge, supporting future employment in laboratory, analytical, and forensic environments.
✔ 51±¬ÁÏÍø in a student-friendly city
51±¬ÁÏÍø offers:
Build a strong chemistry foundation
Forensic chemists require a deep understanding of chemistry before they can apply it to investigative work.
You'll develop knowledge across key areas including:
This helps you understand how forensic evidence is analysed and interpreted.
This is a degree firmly rooted in Chemistry, also designed to help you understand how chemical science is used in modern forensic, analytical, and investigative settings.
Apply chemistry to forensic challenges
As the course progresses, you'll explore specialist forensic applications and develop an understanding of how chemistry contributes to criminal and civil investigations.
You may study areas such as:
Teaching combines theory with practical laboratory experience, helping you understand how forensic science operates in professional settings.
This module aims to provide a breadth core understanding of the main chemical principles behind the chemistry of elements, systems in equilibrium and chemical reactivity, with special emphasis in basic organic reactions.
Students will have the opportunity to learn basic concepts about elements and their main periodic properties and how some of these elements can be combined to produce molecules. Organic molecules will be used as an example to explain reactivity and how chemical structure can condition molecular properties. Energy transfers are also studied to understand the key role they play in chemical and physical transformations and how systems in equilibrium are affected by these.
This module aims to introduce core chemistry concepts with an emphasis on chemical change. Movement and interaction of molecules and chemical kinetics are key physical chemistry topics covered and applied to chemical reactions of both organic and inorganic substances. The use of empirical data to develop and support laws, theories and models will be covered and how chemical kinetics can be used to develop reaction mechanisms. An introduction to crystallography and absorption spectroscopy is covered.
This module is concerned with the skills required to protect, record, process and interpret a crime scene. Emphasis is placed on the role of crime scene investigation in the ‘forensic process’. The process of crime scene investigation is examined from scene preservation and recording (e.g. sketches and photography) to evidence recovery, packaging and documentation. The need for avoidance of contamination of the crime scene and for the subsequent continuity and integrity of the recovered evidence form an integral component of the module.
This module introduces students to professional practice in forensic science. This is put into the context of the legal system of England and Wales and the requirements and expectations of forensic science, those that work in the field and the expert witness. This module will explain the process of forensic practice within the laboratory, including areas such as chain of custody, contemporaneous note taking, standard operating procedures and quality control.
This module builds on the level 1 Crime Scene Investigation module and focuses on the detection, recovery, analysis and interpretation of a wide range of evidence found at a crime scene. In considering this variety of evidence, students will develop an understanding of what implications the recovery of one type of evidence will have on other evidence present on the exhibit or at the scene i.e. the need for a holistic approach to crime scene investigation. Students will explore a wide range of complex evidence types and the latest techniques used to examine them. As part of the module students will undertake the examination of a complex crime scene where they will be required to collect, analyse and interpret a range of evidence types.
This module builds upon foundational knowledge developed in Level 4 to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of chemical reactivity in molecular systems. Knowledge of physicochemical approaches to understanding and quantifying chemical change, via reaction kinetics, is advanced. It also offers insight into the fundamentals of transition metal complexes and their utility in homogeneous catalysis, and extends understanding of mechanism and reactivity of organic compounds.
This unit introduces students to the basic concepts of forensic archaeological science and will aim to address the underlying principles of forensic archaeological recovery of human remains in a variety of contexts, including criminal, war crimes and mass disaster cases. It will cover practical aspects such as the search and recovery of human remains and examine other related evidence types. Theoretical considerations will be given to the processes of human decomposition and aspects of forensic taphonomy will also be examined.
This module is designed to develop an understanding of the importance of marks and trace materials, such as hairs, fibres, glass, footwear and latent fingermarks, as evidence. This would include their detection, recovery, analysis and the interpretation of results gained in a forensic context. The issues of transfer and persistence of such materials is also highlighted, and the need to consider this throughout the above processes.
The option to study overseas is a valuable educational opportunity for our students. Provision of this option supports the educational aims of the Chemistry programmes and enhances the distinctiveness of its degrees at Lincoln. The experience is intended to:
- enable students to benefit from studying within a cross cultural environment;
- expose students to a wider academic and cultural experience;
- enhance their future employment opportunities;
- by increasing their cultural and professional mobility.
This module is optional for students within the School. 51±¬ÁÏÍø Abroad is a module which enables students to spend a year studying abroad at one of the University’s approved partner institutions. Eligible students must have completed their third year of study to a satisfactory standard and successfully completed the application process for the year abroad.
During the time spent abroad, students will complete the professional development portfolio and will critically reflect upon their experience of living and studying in a different cultural environment and the skills acquired.
This module develops a systematic understanding of how molecular shape, symmetry and stereochemistry govern bonding, properties and reactivity across the chemical sub‑disciplines. Students apply group theory and MO concepts to interpret character tables, predict selection rules, and rationalise bonding in polyatomic and cluster species; and they evaluate statistical thermodynamics (distributions, partition functions, ensembles) and read potential‑energy surfaces to relate microscopic behaviour to bulk properties and spontaneity.
This module provides a context for the chemical, physiological and analytical content introduced at levels 4 and 5. It deciphers the complex and dynamic world context of drugs of abuse and intrinsic challenges faced by analytical chemists. It also covers the chemistry and legislation of controlled substances and chemical precursors as well as the different classes of drugs. The module also covers the ante- and post-mortem toxicology of drugs, relates concentration to physiological effect as well as considers appropriate samples and analytical strategies used in forensic toxicology.
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
This module aims to provide a breadth core understanding of the main chemical principles behind the chemistry of elements, systems in equilibrium and chemical reactivity, with special emphasis in basic organic reactions.
Students will have the opportunity to learn basic concepts about elements and their main periodic properties and how some of these elements can be combined to produce molecules. Organic molecules will be used as an example to explain reactivity and how chemical structure can condition molecular properties. Energy transfers are also studied to understand the key role they play in chemical and physical transformations and how systems in equilibrium are affected by these.
This module aims to introduce core chemistry concepts with an emphasis on chemical change. Movement and interaction of molecules and chemical kinetics are key physical chemistry topics covered and applied to chemical reactions of both organic and inorganic substances. The use of empirical data to develop and support laws, theories and models will be covered and how chemical kinetics can be used to develop reaction mechanisms. An introduction to crystallography and absorption spectroscopy is covered.
This module is concerned with the skills required to protect, record, process and interpret a crime scene. Emphasis is placed on the role of crime scene investigation in the ‘forensic process’. The process of crime scene investigation is examined from scene preservation and recording (e.g. sketches and photography) to evidence recovery, packaging and documentation. The need for avoidance of contamination of the crime scene and for the subsequent continuity and integrity of the recovered evidence form an integral component of the module.
This module builds on the level 1 Crime Scene Investigation module and focuses on the detection, recovery, analysis and interpretation of a wide range of evidence found at a crime scene. In considering this variety of evidence, students will develop an understanding of what implications the recovery of one type of evidence will have on other evidence present on the exhibit or at the scene i.e. the need for a holistic approach to crime scene investigation. Students will explore a wide range of complex evidence types and the latest techniques used to examine them. As part of the module students will undertake the examination of a complex crime scene where they will be required to collect, analyse and interpret a range of evidence types.
This module builds upon foundational knowledge developed in Level 4 to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of chemical reactivity in molecular systems. Knowledge of physicochemical approaches to understanding and quantifying chemical change, via reaction kinetics, is advanced. It also offers insight into the fundamentals of transition metal complexes and their utility in homogeneous catalysis, and extends understanding of mechanism and reactivity of organic compounds.
The option to study overseas is a valuable educational opportunity for our students. Provision of this option supports the educational aims of the Chemistry programmes and enhances the distinctiveness of its degrees at Lincoln. The experience is intended to:
- enable students to benefit from studying within a cross cultural environment;
- expose students to a wider academic and cultural experience;
- enhance their future employment opportunities;
- by increasing their cultural and professional mobility.
This module is optional for students within the School. 51±¬ÁÏÍø Abroad is a module which enables students to spend a year studying abroad at one of the University’s approved partner institutions. Eligible students must have completed their third year of study to a satisfactory standard and successfully completed the application process for the year abroad.
During the time spent abroad, students will complete the professional development portfolio and will critically reflect upon their experience of living and studying in a different cultural environment and the skills acquired.
This module develops a systematic understanding of how molecular shape, symmetry and stereochemistry govern bonding, properties and reactivity across the chemical sub‑disciplines. Students apply group theory and MO concepts to interpret character tables, predict selection rules, and rationalise bonding in polyatomic and cluster species; and they evaluate statistical thermodynamics (distributions, partition functions, ensembles) and read potential‑energy surfaces to relate microscopic behaviour to bulk properties and spontaneity.
This module provides a context for the chemical, physiological and analytical content introduced at levels 4 and 5. It deciphers the complex and dynamic world context of drugs of abuse and intrinsic challenges faced by analytical chemists. It also covers the chemistry and legislation of controlled substances and chemical precursors as well as the different classes of drugs. The module also covers the ante- and post-mortem toxicology of drugs, relates concentration to physiological effect as well as considers appropriate samples and analytical strategies used in forensic toxicology.
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
51±¬ÁÏÍøing forensic chemistry involves developing both scientific understanding and practical laboratory confidence.
51±¬ÁÏÍø provides support to help students succeed throughout their degree, including:
Students are encouraged to develop independent learning skills while benefiting from a supportive university environment.
Forensic chemistry graduates develop a combination of scientific expertise and investigative skills that can open opportunities across a range of sectors.
The analytical skills developed on the course are relevant beyond forensic science and can be applied in pharmaceutical testing, environmental monitoring, quality control, regulatory laboratories, toxicology, materials analysis, and public-sector science.
What can you do with a Forensic Chemistry degree?
Potential career paths include:
Graduates may also pursue careers in sectors that value strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including:
Further study and professional development
Graduates may choose to continue their studies through:
The scientific and analytical skills developed during the course provide a strong platform for advanced study and career progression.
If it wasn’t for the 51±¬ÁÏÍø, I would not be working for one of the best global pharmaceutical companies in the world.
Shantae Kaur Rayat
CMC Regulatory Affairs Associate at AstraZeneca
This course could be a good fit if you:
You don't need to have your entire career mapped out before you apply. This degree is designed to help you build scientific expertise, practical laboratory skills, and the confidence to pursue a range of opportunities within forensic science and beyond.
The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to visit us in person. We offer a range of opportunities across the year to help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.
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104 to 112 UCAS Tariff points.
This must be achieved from a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, to include 40 points from Chemistry. For example:
A Level: BCC to BBC to include a Grade B in Chemistry
BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM
Forensic and Criminal Investigation accepted.
Applied Science accepted depending on modules. Please include units on application.
T Level in Science: Merit Overall (Health or Health Science not accepted)
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 104 to 112 UCAS points to be achieved from 45 Level 3 credits, including 40 points from 15 credits in Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall to include a Higher Level in Chemistry.
GCSE's: Minimum of three at grade 4 or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may be considered.
The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
We may also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.
Non UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages
/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic 51±¬ÁÏÍø Skills courses.
For applicants who do not meet our standard entry requirements, our Science Foundation Year can provide an alternative route of entry onto our full degree programmes:
/course/sfysfyub/lifesciences/
If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk
104 to 112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, to include 40 points from Chemistry.
If you are eligible for a contextual offer, a one grade or 8 UCAS Tariff point reduction to the standard entry requirements will be applied. Subject specific requirements will still be required as part of the standard entry criteria.
A Level: BBC to include a Grade B in Chemistry
BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science accepted depending on modules: DDM
(Please include units on application)
We will accept a Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National (equivalent to 1 A Level) in Medical Science or Applied Science to meet the subject specific requirement: Merit
T Level: Not currently accepted.
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 112 UCAS points to be achieved from 45 Level 3 credits, including 40 points from 15 credits in Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall to include a Higher Level in Chemistry.
GCSEs: Minimum of three at grade 4 or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may be considered.
The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
We may also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.
Non UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages
/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic 51±¬ÁÏÍø Skills courses.
For applicants who do not meet our standard entry requirements, our Science Foundation Year can provide an alternative route of entry onto our full degree programmes:
/course/sfysfyub/lifesciences/
If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk
University 51±¬ÁÏÍø is a major investment, so it’s important to understand the costs and support available. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found below. Eligible students may be able to access scholarships and bursaries to help with study costs.
University 51±¬ÁÏÍø is a major investment, so it’s important to understand the costs and support available. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found below. Eligible students may be able to access scholarships and bursaries to help with study costs.
We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.
We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.