Overview

Year 3 entry only: We are currently only accepting applications for direct entry to Year 3 of this course. Applicants will normally need a relevant Higher National Diploma (HND). See the entry requirements below for full details.

Forensic Investigators produce evidence that can be used in a court of law. This course will equip you with the knowledge and hands-on experience of scientific methods for the investigation and solving of crimes.

Glasgow Caledonian has recently invested more than £1.5 million to create state-of-the-art chemistry and biology laboratories where you'll gain invaluable practical experience in using modern instruments, such as a DNA analyser, ultra powerful microscopes and mass spectrometers.

This course provides you with a firm grasp of the theoretical and practical aspects of the chemical and biological sciences, with forensic staff consultancy casework discussed throughout. You'll have the opportunity to spend up to a year at one of our partner institutions in Europe or the USA.

Graduates can be accepted as Associated Members of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), which is a step towards chartered chemist status.

What you will study

We aim to display the most up-to-date information possible. The modules listed on this page and the Programme Specification are intended to give you an idea of what you may be able to study on this course. Please note that course content, modules, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at GCU. This might be because we are required to do so by law, by a governmental authority, regulator or accrediting body. We may also make changes for quality assurance reasons, or to enhance the course.

Please note that full module information is in the process of being finalised for publication and will be made available here shortly.

In the meantime, you can view and download the Programme Specification at the bottom of this page. This document provides an overview of the course structure, including indicative modules, learning content and further key information. The modules listed on the Programme Specification are for the current academic year and are intended to give you an idea of what you may be able to study on this course.

Careers

Graduates have also gone on to work in the chemical and biochemical analysis sectors, the environmental forensic area, the police, food safety, teaching, pharmaceuticals and the oil and gas industry. Several of our students have pursued a career in scientific research.

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1st
in Scotland

Glasgow Caledonian is ranked number one in Scotland for Archaeology and Forensic Science (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)

Course information

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Download the programme specification

In addition to the core modules that all students must undertake, some courses offer students a choice from a selection of optional modules to shape the focus of their degree. Optional modules where available, form part of the overall credit structure of the course.

Download the programme specification for a detailed breakdown of the course structure, including modules, what you'll learn and other useful information.

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