School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
1.
Programme or Pathway Title, and Award
Criminology and Forensic Science, BSc (Hons),
2.
UCAS or Other Admissions Code
MF94 BSc/CrFSc
3.
Northumbria Programme Code
CRI2FOS
4.
Mode of Delivery
On Site
yes
5.
Mode of Attendance
Full Time
yes
6.
Location of Delivery
Northumbria
yes
Distance Learning

Sandwich
Distance Delivery
yes
Part Time
No
Other UK please specify
Overseas please specify
Collaborative Provision if applicable
7.
Franchised
Validated
Joint
Dual
Partner Institution
8.
Date(s) of Approval/ Review
9.
QAA Subject Benchmark Group
Updated 25 /february 2011
1. Biosciences
2. Criminology
10.
PSRB accreditation if applicable
11.
Educational Aims of the Programme Specified in terms of the general intentions of the programme and its distinctive characteristics; these should be consistent
N/A
with any relevant benchmark and with the Mission of the University.
The existence of well established and popular undergraduate programmes at this and other Universities in Forensic Science
and in Criminology reflects a considerable degree of public and academic interest in these areas. The development of an
undergraduate programme which combines these two separate but complementary disciplines will offer a unique educational
opportunity to cohorts of students who want to combine a basic scientific training with development of knowledge in the
sociology of criminal behaviour. This programme will complement, develop and extend existing provision at Northumbria, and
offer opportunities further to develop styles of teaching and learning which reflect the contrast between the qualitative and
quantitative modes of understanding which are implicit in the combination of the two academic disciplines.
The programme should provide employment prospects for graduates in the vocational criminology and forensic science areas
while the generic scientific skills acquired, coupled with an appreciation of legal aspects which should produce graduates
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
desirable to employers in a wide variety of areas.
The programme aims:
1.
To provide students with a knowledge and understanding of the science base that underpins Forensic Science.
2.
To develop in students the practical and information technology skills pertinent to Forensic investigations.
3.
To provide students with an understanding of aspects of the sociological and legal implications of criminology.
4.
To foster a spirit of enquiry and motivation in the field of criminology and forensic science
5.
To develop students’ critical faculties and problem solving skills to facilitate employment in non-scientific careers and
provide a grounding for continuing education and development.
12.
How Students are Supported in their Learning/Employability/Career Development eg curriculum design, personal development plans, placements,
fieldwork, practical projects.
Pre-enrolment: School welcome pack and individual letter sent.
Induction: School welcome for students including ice-breaking sessions to promote a positive atmosphere and personal
contact with staff. All students are issued with key academic information relating to the University and School organisation and
systems, including student support services, during the induction sessions at the beginning of each academic year. The
expectations of the programme team are illustrated in the programme booklet and explained by the programme leader.
Study skills development: through School Handbook, Programme guide, Module guides, library workbook, and access to
the Study Skills Centre.
Guidance and Tutorial systems: Each student is allocated a Guidance Tutor for personal support. One of the main
functions is to monitor, and be sensitive to, the student’s transition into HE. A Personal Development Programme enables this
process through the medium of personal Learning Logs which are worked on in collaboration with a Guidance Tutor. Student
attendance is closely observed, especially during the first semester, so as to identify student difficulties. The Schools involved
operates an ‘open door’ policy for individual support and all students have access to all staff by e-mail. The Divisional Tutorial
Guidance Advisor, who oversees the student guidance programme, is trained in the awareness of student needs. At the
beginning of a module, the Module Tutor will present a module booklet containing the information relating to delivery, content,
teaching and learning method, learning objectives, learning resources, tutorial material and assessment of the module. At
each academic level a Staff Student Consultative Committee is formed, comprising student-selected representatives and
chaired by the Level Tutor. Minutes of these meetings are part of the Programme Management and Review process.
Student Feedback: To enable students to monitor their academic progress and develop their study skills, they are provided
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
with written feedback on the coursework, assignments, laboratory-work and examination performance.
Learning resources: Staff, other students, handbooks and guides (see above), printed lecture handouts, material on
Backboard including data, problems, past examination papers, University and School computing facilities, Library and access
to internet, teaching and/or research laboratories and equipment.
The curriculum is designed to give a basis in the relevant areas of criminology and forensic science. The laboratory
programme with its emphasis on ‘hands on’ use of modern instrumentation is particularly desirable. At all stages of the
programme, problem solving is incorporated into the modules as coursework and/or formal assessment. Graduates will be IT
‘literate’, have knowledge of the social aspects of crime and the legal limitations of forensic evidence, and will have managed
a major project, reporting and defending their findings both by a dissertation and oral presentation. The theoretical, practical
and learning skills developed through the programme are a foundation for postgraduate study as well as a secure and realistic
basis for students to seek employment in the fields of the Prison service, the Probation service, Social Work, Victim Support
Schemes, the Police, Forensic science laboratories, and consultancy in various fields.
13.
Learning Outcomes of Programme Specified in terms of performance capabilities to be shown on completion of the programme/pathway. Please identify
numerically to correspond to the map of learning outcomes in section 18.
Upon successful completion of the BSc (Honours) programme the student will have demonstrated a progression from the lower levels of
knowledge and comprehension, through application and analysis, ultimately to add the ability for critical evaluation and synthesis in relation
to:
a) Knowledge and Understanding
1. The essential facts, concepts, principles, and theories underpinning forensic science and criminology.
2. The technique and roles of IT and data-processing applied to scientific and sociology information.
3. The scope, limitations and application of a range of forensic techniques.
4. The application and validity of analytical methodology to forensic investigation.
5. The societal aspects of crime and the legal constraints on evidence and its accumulation.
b) Intellectual Skills
1. Apply knowledge and understanding to the solution of qualitative and quantitative problems.
2. Recognise and analyse novel problems, and plan strategically for their solution.
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
3. Interpret, evaluate and/or synthesise information and data from experimental and literature sources
4. Carry out laboratory experiments.
5. Plan and design laboratory experiments
6. Apply knowledge and understanding of the sociological and criminological aspects of crime
c) Practical Skills
1. Undertake risk assessments concerning the use of chemical substances and laboratory procedures.
2. Carry out standard laboratory procedures safely according to HASAW.
3. Systematically and accurately record observations and/or measurements during experimentation.
4. Operate standard instrumentation.
5. Present experimental results in written or oral format.
d) Transferable/Key Skills
1. Communication, written or oral.
2. Problem solving, both qualitative and quantitative.
3. Numerical and computational skills.
4. Information retrieval, including hard copy, on-line and web-based sources.
5. IT, including word-processing and use of spreadsheets.
6. Interpersonal skills.
7. Time management and organisational skills.
8. Study skills appropriate to continuing professional development.
14.
Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy Specified to enable learners to achieve and demonstrate the above learning outcomes.
The modules used in the programme use different teaching, learning and assessment methods as appropriate. All learning,
teaching and assessment methods fully comply with the University strategy and guidelines and the QAA Code of Practice on
Assessment. The methods provide wide diversity, incorporating the best techniques to fit both the particular subject under
study and the depth of learning required at undergraduate level.
Some modules are taught conventionally, others may be taught using independent learning materials, with the support of the
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
appropriate tutor.
The assessment methods aim to reflect the wide range of teaching and learning practices and diversity of subject matter
across the Schools involved, and is designed to test the learning outcomes of each module in the most appropriate way. The
students are expected to evaluate theoretical or practical frameworks for the analysis and critical evaluation of a variety of
issues. Where appropriate, they are also expected to produce new critiques, methodologies and insights and propose new
solutions to problems. This latter issue is particularly relevant to the final year dissertation.
Students receive a mixture of learning experiences, including lectures, small group seminars and laboratory sessions where
appropriate. Delivery is also supported by the use of a range of academic and case-study-based learning materials. There is
an emphasis on independent learning.
Learning, teaching and assessment of transferable skills permeates the whole of the programme.
Assessment methods may include exams, essays, laboratory reports, case studies, data analysis, presentations, individual
portfolio and project work.
a. Knowledge and Understanding
Acquisition of 1 is through the combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory experiments and coursework.
Acquisition of 2 is developed through each year of the programme.
Acquisition of 3 is developed generally throughout the programme, in both theory and laboratory modules.
Acquisition of 4 is introduced at level 4 in Essential Chemistry and Introduction to Forensic Science and is further developed
throughout the last two years of the programme through the specific modules, Chromatography, Forensic Investigation: From
Crime Scene to Court, Forensic Trace Analysis, Forensic Science and Practice, Instrumental methods of Drug Analysis and
Applications of Forensic DNA Analysis.
Acquisition of 5 is via the modules: Forensic Investigation: From Crime Scene to Court, Introduction to the Criminal Justice
System, Criminological Theory, Police and Policing, Prisons and Punishment, Principles of Criminal Justice, Principles of
Criminal Evidence and the Dissertation.
Assessment
Testing the knowledge and understanding base is through a combination of formal unseen written examinations, experimental
reports, assignments, assessed coursework, presentations and project reports.
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
b. Intellectual Skills
The intellectual skills are developed through the teaching and learning programme described above and in Section 13,
especially in years 2 and 3.
The analysis, interpretative and problem solving skills are enhanced in workshops, laboratory exercises, assignments and the
Dissertation.
Assessment
Analytical, interpretative and problem solving skills are assessed by formal unseen written examinations, laboratory
experimental reports, assignments, assessed coursework, presentations and the project dissertation.
c. Practical Skills
Practical skills are developed throughout the programme, for example the laboratory based modules Introductory Human
Biosciences, Essential Chemistry, Introduction to Forensic Science at level 4, Forensic Investigation: From Crime Scene to
Court, Chromatography, Forensic Trace Analysis, at level 5 and , Forensic Science in Practice, Instrumental Methods of Drug
Analysis, Applications of Forensic DNA Analysis at level 6.
Assessment
Practical skills are assessed by laboratory reports, assignments and oral presentations.
d. Transferable/Key Skills
The various transferable skills are embedded in modules throughout the programme. Problem solving is encountered in the
theory and laboratory modules. Numeracy and computing are introduced and their application developed with the progression
through the years, as is oral and written communication. Information retrieval by a variety of techniques is developed within
level 4 modules as well as at level 5, Research Methods in Criminology and Forensic Science, culminating in the final year
Dissertation. The independent/directed learning aspects of the support and specialist modules develop and enhance study
skills and teamwork is used in some modules, Forensic Investigation: From Crime Scene to Court and Forensic Science in
Practice. Students are also encouraged to engage with volunteering work during their 1st two years of study with for example
Youth Offending Team, NEPACS.
15.
Programme Structure Diagrams can also be used to demonstrate the structure.
Level 4
Programme Structure Refer if necessary to appended diagrams
Progression for Honours Programme
Students are introduced to basic scientific principles (chemistry and
Progression point at level 4: 120 credits.
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
human biosciences) as well as an introductory forensic science
module, and relevant laboratory techniques. The criminology aspects
are introduced in terms of Crime and Society, Victims, Offenders and
the Environment, and Introduction to the Criminal Justice System.
There are no option choices at level 4.
Level 5
Level 6
Certificate in Higher Education awarded
for 120 credits.
Following a firm grounding at level 4, key themes are developed during
level 5 to allow specialisms to be progressed at level 6. These themes
include analytical chemistry (Chromatography, Forensic Trace
Analysis), biology (Forensic Investigation), Research (Research
Methods in Criminology and Forensic Science, Criminological Theory),
Policing Crime (Police and Policing) and Punishment (Prisons and
Punishment).
Progression point at level 5: 120 credits
at level 5.
The application of forensic science is advanced in Forensic Science in
Practice. Students who wish to further their studies in biology or
analytical chemistry have an option to choose from Applications of
Forensic DNA Analysis or Instrumental Methods of Drug Analysis.
Honours Degree awarded for total of
360 credits, including a minimum of 120
at level 5 and 120 at level 4/3.
Students undertake an investigative Dissertation (40 credits)
complemented by option choices to further their studies in either the
Policing or Punishment theme. These choices include Contemporary
Policing and Security, Concepts and Patterns of Organised Crime, Sex
Work Theory, Practice and Policy or Thinking Differently About
Punishment. A Criminology work experience module is also currently
offered but is subject to a competitive tender/interview process (limited
number of places available).
Diploma in Higher Education awarded
for 240 credits.
.
Please refer to the PROGRAMME STRUCTURE DIAGRAM, detailing
modules, accompanying this Programme Specification.
16.
Interim Awards Credit Structure and Programme Learning Outcomes for Interim Awards.
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
Award
Credit Structure
Programme Learning
Certificate in
120 credits at level 4.
Higher Education
Completion of modules, and hence learning outcomes, at
level 4.
Students will have demonstrated knowledge of basic
concepts associated with their field of study and be able to
devise approaches to solving problems within this area.
Students will be able to communicate information
accurately and will possess the ability to exercise some
personal responsibility
Diploma in
240 credits120 credits at level 4 and 120
Higher Education credits at level 5.
Completion of modules, and hence learning outcomes, at
level 4/5.
Students will have knowledge and a critical understanding
of key concepts will enable them to apply knowledge within
their field in different ways to solve problems. Students will
possess the ability to exercise personal responsibility and
make decisions in a subject-related working environment as
to appropriate courses of action.
6
17.
Variation From Assessment Regulations Provide details of any approved variations from the standard University regulations.
None
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
18.
Mapping of Learning Outcomes
MODULE
Core/
option
a) Knowledge &
Understanding
1
2
3
b) Intellectual Skills
4
5
1
2
3
4
c) Practical Skills
5
6
3
4
d) Transferable Key Skills
1
2
5
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5
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7
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8
Level 4
CH0559
CH0566
CH0632
SO0606
SO0608
SO0609
C
C
C
C
C
C
 
 
 
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C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
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Level 5
CS0501
CS0500
CH0496
CH0212
LA0233
SO0707
SO0708
SO0709
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Key to Modules:
Level 4
CH0559 Introductory Human Biosciences
CH0566 Essential Chemistry
CH0632 Introduction to Forensic Sciences
SO060 6 Victims, Offenders and the
Environment
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SO0608 Crime and Society
SO0609 Introduction to the Criminal Justice
System
Level 5
CH0212 Chromatography
CH0513 Research Methods in Criminology
and Forensic Science
CH0907 Forensic Investigation: From Crime
Scene to Court
SO0708 Police and Policing
SO0707 Criminological Theory
CHO496 Forensic Trace Analysis
LA0233 Principles of Criminal Justice
9
School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
SO0709 Prisons and Punishment
MODULE
Core/
option
a) Knowledge &
Understanding
3
b) Intellectual Skills
1
2
4
5
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
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1
2
3
4
c) Practical Skills
5
6
1
2
3
4
d) Transferable Key Skills
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
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   
   
Level 6
CS0601 1
CH0629
LA0234
CS0600
CS0602 2
SO0841
SO0812
SO0844
SO0820
SO0845
SO0840
O
O
C
C
C
C
O
O
O
O
O
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Key to modules
SO0841 Dissertation (Sociology and Criminology)
SO0845 Thinking Differently About Punishment
LA0234 Principles of Criminal Evidence
SO0812 Contemporary Policing and Security
SO0840 Criminology work experience
CS0600 Forensic Science in Practice
SO0844 Sex Work Theory, Practice and Policy
CS0602 Topical Issues in Forensic
Science 2
SO0820 Concepts and Patterns of Organised
Crime
CS0601 Applications of Forensic DNA
Analysis 1
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
Admission Requirements
19.
The ability to benefit from Northumbria University programmes is assessed on a combination of academic and personal qualities which can be
demonstrated in a number of ways. Successful completion of a GCE or VCE Advanced level course of study (or some other equivalent qualification) is
just one way. Students who can in other ways demonstrate their ability to benefit from a Northumbria University programme, in particular mature
students without formal qualifications will always be considered and are invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss their application.
Applicants should use the personal statement on their application to illustrate their abilities, aptitudes, skills, qualifications and experiences which might
be taken into account as well as or instead of any of the formal qualifications listed below. It is University policy to recognise a wide variety of evidence,
and potential applicants may wish to discuss this aspect of their application with the admission tutor.
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
Impt note: Currently under review – to be confirmed
Five GCSE's at grade C or above including Mathematics, English Language and Science, plus one of the following:
GCE and VCE Advanced Level
280 UCAS Tariff points including at least 160 UCAS Tariff points from Chemistry and Biology or 100
UCAS Tariff points from Chemistry or Biology
New Edexcel/BTEC National Diploma 1 Distinction and 2 Merits
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including grade B in Biology and/or Chemistry (or C in Both subjects).
Scottish Highers
BBCCC including grade B in Biology and/or Chemistry (or C in Both subjects)
Irish Highers
BBBBC including Chemistry and/or Biology at grade B (or C in both subjects).
HEFC
One Distinction and Five Merits including Biology and/or Chemistry plus toolbox
Other
Pass in Access course including Biology and/or Chemistry at Level 3. Some units should be achieved at
Distinction, others at Merit.
All other applicants should contact Admissions for advice on entry requirements.
English Language requirement for overseas students: IELTS 6 for entry at level 4 and 5; IELTS 6.5 for entry at level 6. A score below 0.5 of these tariffs
will not be eligible for entry.
Interviews
Interviews will be held where

the suitability of a candidate is in doubt and further evidence is sought

candidates present an unusual set of qualifications taken or pending, and an appropriate conditional offer needs to be determined

candidates may need advice on the appropriateness of a programme, or on the appropriateness of a proposed preparatory course of study
Applicants invited for an interview will always be told its purpose.
20.
Application Procedure
Applications are processed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
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School of Life Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
(BSc Hons Criminology and Forensic Science
Level 4
CH0559 Introductory Human Biosciences (20, YL)
CH0566 Essential Chemistry (20, YL)
CH0632 Introduction to Forensic Science (20, YL)
SO0606 Victims, Offenders and the Environment (20, YL)
SO0608 Crime and Society(20, YL)
SO0609 Introduction to the Criminal Justice System(20, YL)
Level 5
Level 6
CS0501 Forensic Investigation, From Crime Scene to Court (20, YL)
CH0212 Chromatography (10, sem1)
LA0233 Principles of Criminal Justice (10, sem2)
CS0500 Research Methods in Criminology and
CH0496 Forensic Trace Analysis (10, sem 2)
Forensic Science (10, sem1)
SO0707 Criminological Theory(20, YL)
SO0708 Police and Policing (20, sem1)
SO0709 Prisons and Punishment (20, sem2)
CS0600 Forensic Science in Practice (20, YL)
OPTION: CS0601 Applications of Forensic DNA Analysis (20, YL) or CH0629 Instrumental Methods of
Drug Analysis (20, YL)
SO0841 Dissertation (40, YL)
CS0602 Topical Issues in Forensic Science (10, sem
1)
LA0234 Principles of Criminal Evidence (10, sem1)
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OPTION CHOICE SO081SO0812
Contemporary Policing and Security, ,
SO0820 Concepts and Patterns of Organised
Crime, SO0840 Criminology work experience,
SO0844 Sex Work Theory, Practice and
Policy or SO0845 Thinking Differently About
Punishment. (20, sem2)
13
NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY
PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION LOG OF CHANGES
LOG OF CHANGES
Any changes made to an approved Programme Specification (other than typographical corrections) should be logged below and the
sheet appended to the Programme Specification. Subsequent changes can then be added. Where it is not practicable to change an
existing Programme Specification, a new version is required.
Semester/
academic
year
eg S2;05/06
1.
Section 15 page 8 – removal of SO0816
The Politics of Crime and It’s Control
CRI2FOS
BSc Hons Criminology &
Forensic Science
March
2009
Y
All
200910
2.
Section 18 page 11 – removal of SO0816
from the learning outcomes grid.
CRI2FOS
BSc Hons Criminology &
Forensic Science
March
2009
Y
All
200910
3.
Section 16 - Section 16 – Interim Awards.
Updated to reflect changes in ARNA Regs
relating to Ordinary Degrees
Section 19 - Admissions requirements
updated for 2010-11 entry
Section 15-18 Updated with amended
module revisions
Section 12, 14-15, 17-18 Updated with
amended module revisions
Section 19 entry requirement is currently
under review and the changes indicated
are yet to be confirmed
CRI2FOS
BSc Hons Criminology &
Forensic Science
Dec
09
Y
All
200910
CRI2FOS
BSc Hons Criminology &
Forensic Science
BSc Hons Criminology &
Forensic Science
BSc Hons Criminology &
Forensic Science
Dec
09
25/02/
11
25/02/
11
Y
All
Y
All
Y
All
201011
201011
201112
4.
5.
6
1
CRI2FOS
CRI2FOS
Administrative changes are defined in section of Approval Processes for Taught Programmes and Modules
http://northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/ar/lts/approval/
Document1
Date of approval
/ amendment
(including section number)
Stage/year
of
programme
eg Year 3
Change takes effect
Programme Programme title(s)
code(s)
affected by
change
Admin change1
Y/N
Brief summary of change to Programme
Specification
NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY
PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION LOG OF CHANGES
Document1