University of Kent

BSc Forensic Science with a Foundation Year

University of Kent

Course overview

The BSc Forensic Science with a Foundation Year at the University of Kent is a four-year programme that builds fundamental scientific knowledge before moving into forensic applications. In the foundation year, students will study core science modules, including chemical analysis, biology, and data handling, to prepare for advanced study.

From the second year, students will explore forensic topics such as trace evidence, ballistics, DNA analysis, and expert witness work. Assessment combines practical reports, coursework, written exams, and final-year research, allowing students to develop technical and investigative skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should write a personal statement that explains their interest in forensic science and describes any relevant experience. A reference from a school teacher or employer is needed, and you may also upload a CV to highlight extra-curricular or work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • UCAS: A total of 80 points is typically required.
  • A-Levels: A CDD grade, with at least one science subject, is required.
  • BTEC Extended Diploma: A MMP in Applied Science, Biomedical Science, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, or related subjects is required.
  • International Baccalaureate: 80 tariff points, typically H5, H4, H4, including a Higher-Level science subject is required.
  • T-Levels: A Pass in Science with at least a C in core components is accepted.

English Language Requirements:

If English is not your first language, you will be expected to meet university-approved English proficiency scores (such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE), in line with Kent’s standard requirements.

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship

    Scholarship value up to £10,000.

  • Kent Ambition to Succeed Scholarship

    Scholarship holders can expect to receive between £500-£2,000 for each year of study (pro-rata for part-time students), subject to satisfactory academic progress.

  • Kent Business School Beaconhouse PG Progression Scholarship

    Tuition fee discount scholarship of £6,000.

    Up to £6,000

  • Kent Business School Dean's Excellence Scholarship Award

    Awards of up to £3,000

  • Kent Business School MBA Scholarship

    50% off Tuition Fee.

    Up to 50% of fees

  • Kent Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee reduction for post-graduate taught programmes at the University of Kent.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Kent International Scholarship for Undergraduates

    Scholarship value - £5,000

    Up to £5,000

  • Kent International Scholarship Postgraduate Taught

    Scholarship value - £5000

    Up to £5,000

  • Kent International Scholarship Postgraduate Taught (KBS)

    Scholarship value £3000

    Up to £3,000

  • Kent LLM Solicitors’ Practice Scholarship (Canterbury)

    £2,000 tuition fee discount (Home Students); £2,000 tuition fee discount (Overseas Students).

    Up to £2,000

  • KMMS Christopher and Henry Oldfield Academic Scholarship

    Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9, 790 for 26/27).

  • KMMS Christopher and Henry Oldfield Support Scholarship

    Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9,790 for 26/27).

  • KMMS Kingsman Scholarship

    Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9,790 for 26/27).

  • KMMS Widening Participation Scholarship

    £1,500 maintenance per annum for a maximum of 5 years.

    Up to £1,500

  • Music Performance Scholarship

    £1,000 awarded each year to talented instrumentalists and singers studying for any degree at the University of Kent.

    Up to £1,000

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Tuition fees waived for the duration of your programme of study, or until you are able to access other Student Finance funding.

  • Sasha Roberts Scholarship

    £3,000 stipend per annum split into two payments of £1,500 in October and January.

    Up to £3,000

  • The “Ambition” Scholarship for University of Kent Graduates

    £1,500 for Full Time UK students; £750 per year for Part Time UK students; £3,000 for Full Time Overseas students.

  • The CAMEMS Scholarship

    £3,000 stipend per annum split into two payments of £1,500 in October and January.

    Up to £3,000

  • The Widening Participation Ambition Scholarship for University of Kent Graduates

    £5,000 for UK students (£2,500 per year for part time students).

Career opportunities

A BSc Forensic Science with a Foundation Year at the University of Kent gives graduates strong scientific, investigative, and analytical skills. Graduates are well prepared for careers such as:

  • Forensic Scientist
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • Digital Forensics Analyst
  • Ballistics Specialist
  • DNA / Genetic Forensics Analyst

Cost of study

For international students, the tuition fee for the BSc Forensic Science with a Foundation Year in the University of Kent is £23,500 per year. This fee may increase in future academic years.

Admission

If you are interested in building a strong foundation in science before specialising in forensic investigation, apply through UCAS for the BSc Forensic Science with a Foundation Year at the University of Kent. To know more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.

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