Forensic Chemistry Keele University

Overview

The Forensic Chemistry programme at Keele University combines rigorous academic study with practical applications in modern forensic investigation. Students develop a deep understanding of chemical structures and reactions while learning how to process evidence from complex crime scenes. This degree ensures graduates are equipped with the analytical and problem-solving skills required for the professional science sector.

Why Forensic Chemistry at Keele University?

• Ranked number one in the UK for student satisfaction in Chemistry by the National Student Survey 2025.
• Top 3 in the UK for Forensic Science according to the Guardian University Guide 2026.
• Access to unique 600-acre campus facilities, including a dedicated Crime Scene House and outdoor simulation areas.
• Opportunities to gain an additional certification in expert witness testimony to enhance professional employability.
• State-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories equipped with industry-standard spectroscopic and chromatographic instrumentation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 18200 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year 1

• Practical and Professional Chemistry Skills
• Chemical Structure and Reactivity
• Forensic Investigation: From Documents to DNA
• Forensic Analysis: Evidence under Investigation
• Sustainable Chemistry
• Crime Scene Investigation

Year 2

• Chemical Characterisation and Transformations
• Chemical Analysis and Detection
• Drugs of Abuse
• Crime Scenes: Blood, Marks and Prints
• Counterfeits, Fakes and Forgeries
• Principles of Drug Design

Year 3

• Kinetics, Catalysis and Mechanism
• Chemical Analysis: Instrumentation and Evaluation
• Independent Research Project
• Forensic Chemistry Literature Review
• Crime Scene to Court
• Forensic Toxicology: Ingestion to Detection

Careers with Forensic Chemistry

Graduates from Keele University are prepared for diverse roles across the scientific and legal sectors. The programme develops multifaceted transferable skills suitable for technical, analytical, and investigative career paths in both public and private organisations.

Potential career destinations include:

• Analytical Chemist
• Forensic Scene Investigator
• Toxicologist
• Medicinal Chemist
• Intelligence Analyst
• Quality Control Scientist
• Scientific Laboratory Technician
• Synthetic Chemist