Forensic Science and Criminology with Foundation Year

Crime is one of the most complex phenomena in modern societies, and understanding it fully requires both the rigour of natural science and the interpretive depth of social inquiry. Forensic science and criminology together address this complexity: one asks how physical evidence can be gathered, preserved, and analysed; the other asks why crimes occur, how societies respond to them, and what justice actually requires. Combining the two disciplines gives you a richer picture than either provides alone.

At Keele University, this four-year programme includes a foundation year designed to prepare you thoroughly for degree-level study. The foundation year builds the academic skills and scientific background you will need, ensuring you are ready to engage with university-level material from a position of confidence. As you progress into the main degree, you will study the chemistry, biology, and analytical techniques that underpin forensic investigation, including evidence collection at crime scenes, DNA profiling, and laboratory analysis.

Alongside this, you will explore criminological theory, the sociology of deviance, the workings of the criminal justice system, and debates about policing, punishment, and rehabilitation. Learning to move between laboratory bench and theoretical argument develops a versatility that is rare and valuable.

With a typical entry tariff of 72 UCAS points, this programme is accessible to students who have the motivation and interest to succeed even if their prior qualifications are not at the highest level. Graduates pursue careers in forensic laboratories, police services, the prison and probation service, crime analysis, regulatory agencies, and the voluntary sector. The scientific training also opens routes into analytical roles in industry or public health.

Those who wish to continue their studies can progress to postgraduate programmes in forensic science, criminology, criminal justice, or social research, and some go on to research careers or expert witness practice.