Chemistry with Forensic Investigation with Foundation Year

Chemistry with forensic investigation brings together the rigorous science of matter and its transformations with the specialised application of chemical and analytical techniques to questions of evidence and justice. Chemistry is one of the central natural sciences, concerned with the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of substances from the atomic to the macroscopic scale. Forensic investigation applies chemical methods to the examination of physical evidence in legal contexts: identifying substances, analysing trace materials, examining documents and artefacts, and providing scientific testimony that can support or challenge claims in criminal and civil proceedings.

At the University of Surrey, this four-year full-time programme opens with a foundation year, providing a structured and supported route into chemistry for students whose prior qualifications have not included all the science and mathematics typically required for direct entry. The foundation year develops the analytical and quantitative foundations of chemistry alongside laboratory skills and scientific communication, preparing you thoroughly for the demands of the honours degree. Surrey has explicitly committed to integrating digital and AI skills across its programmes, and this course reflects that commitment, developing the digital literacy and computational confidence that contemporary employers value.

In your subsequent chemistry and forensic studies, you will cover the major areas of chemistry including organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, analytical techniques, and spectroscopy, alongside forensic-specific content including crime scene science, trace evidence analysis, toxicology, DNA profiling, and the legal and ethical frameworks within which forensic scientists operate. Laboratory work is central throughout, developing the practical expertise and professional habits that forensic and analytical practice require.

Graduates from chemistry with forensic investigation programmes pursue careers in forensic science laboratories, police forensic services, toxicology, pharmaceutical and analytical chemistry, quality control, environmental analysis, and research. The core chemistry qualification also opens doors to careers across the chemical and life sciences industries. Postgraduate study in forensic science, analytical chemistry, or a related field supports those who wish to develop specialist expertise or pursue research careers.