Bachelor in Forensic Science

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a contemporary Scottish university with campuses in Paisley, Hamilton, Ayr and Dumfries. Formed through a merger in 2007 and tracing its heritage to the late 19th century, UWS combines a modern, student-focused approach with a commitment to applied learning. The university is known for accessible teaching, practical course design and strong links with employers across sectors including business, engineering, health and the creative industries.

UWS offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to build workplace skills through placements, industry projects and practice-led learning. Research activity spans applied disciplines and contributes to local and international innovation. Students benefit from wraparound support services, career guidance and opportunities to engage in research or enterprise initiatives that strengthen employability on graduation.

Life at UWS balances study with a lively student community, clubs and volunteer opportunities across its campuses. International students find dedicated support for arrival, academic transition and career planning, and the university’s regional connections help secure placements and professional experience. For students seeking practical learning in a supportive, career-focused environment, UWS offers a clear pathway to professional growth and global mobility.

The Bachelor in Forensic Science is a degree program for students who want to learn about the gathering and analysis of evidence in a scientific basis. This 4-year program is taught in English and helps students develop practical and transferable skills for a career as a forensic scientist. Students will learn about forensic evidence, DNA fingerprinting, and crime scene investigation.

The curriculum includes subjects such as chemistry, bioscience, and data analysis. Students will develop skills in laboratory work, including chemical analysis, optical microscopy, and biochemical tests. Hands-on components include crime scene investigations, mock courts, and presentations. The program also includes a year's paid work experience placement option in an industry-based laboratory.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Forensic Scientists, Crime Scene Investigators, Laboratory Technicians, Toxicologists, or Research Scientists. They can work in industries such as forensic laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, or environmental agencies. Employers may include government agencies, private laboratories, or research institutions.