BSc (Hons) Criminal Justice and Forensic Science at University of the West of Scotland

Programme overview

The BSc Criminal Justice and Forensic Science degree helps you kick-start your career in the criminal justice system by developing expertise in criminal justice and the forensic examination of evidence. This unique degree offers an opportunity to study criminal justice theory, research and policy alongside the forensic science vital to modern investigations.

Duration: 4 years full-time, 5 years full-time (sandwich) | Study mode: full-time; sandwich/placement option | Intake: Paisley: September | Location: Paisley, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

This degree will provide you with a practical understanding of the techniques used in the forensic examination of evidence, including material from crime scenes, drugs and DNA evidence. The chance to present evidence in moot court scenarios and group projects will help you develop the presentational, time management and IT skills sought after by employers. Year 3: Optional 12-month work placement.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Year 1: Scottish Highers: Standard Entry Requirements: BCCC (90 UCAS Tariff points), plus National 5 Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology at Grade B, and National 5 Maths/Applications of Maths and English at Grade C; Minimum Entry Requirements: CCC (63 UCAS Tariff points), plus National 5 Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology at B, National 5 Maths/Applications of Maths and English at Grade C; Alternative Minimum Entry Requirements: CC (42 UCAS Tariff points), National 5 Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology at B, National 5 Maths/Applications of Maths and English at Grade C, PLUS successful completion of one of the following: UWS Foundation Academy; Foundation Apprenticeship; UWS Next Steps to University module; Top-Up; LEAPS; A Levels: CCD (88 UCAS Tariff Points) plus GCSE Chemistry or Biology at Grade 4 or above OR triple Science at Grade B; T Level: Full T Level with Grade P (A*-C) (96 Tariff points) plus GCSE Chemistry or Biology at Grade 4 or above OR triple Science at Grade B; Irish Leaving Certificate: H3H3H3H4 including Chemistry; International Baccalaureate: 24 points including Chemistry or Biology; Scottish Wider Access Programme: Access to STEM; Access to Humanities; Access to Social Science; Access to Law and Criminal Justice with grades BBB; Year 2: HNC: Applied Science or relevant science-based title with appropriate criminology background; Year 3: HND: Applied Science or relevant science-based title with appropriate criminology background; English language: IELTS Academic 6.0 overall with no sub-test below 5.5. UCAS code F420.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Scottish: per year of study (usually paid by the Scottish Government via SAAS*) Source

International applicants: GBP 18,900 a year (2026/27). International (all other EU plus Non-EU): per year of study Source

Intake: Paisley: September

Duration: 4 years full-time, 5 years full-time (sandwich)

Apply through the official page: https://digital.ucas.com/coursedisplay/courses/b14220a1-a10d-4b11-a32b-fb7f2ccfbbba

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