Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Forensic and Analytical Science)

The Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science) (Honours) will appeal to applicants who have the goal of completing an Honours year in this specialisation of science. This degree weaves core analytical skills with the principles, knowledge and practices of forensic biology and forensic chemistry. Forensic and analytical chemistry combines the practices of analytical chemistry and forensic investigation. Forensic biology uses aspects of life sciences to examine biological material in a forensic context.

This degree provides students with a broad-based foundation in both chemistry and biology and is complemented by aspects of mathematics. This degree is extended with extensive knowledge in the discipline of analytical chemistry and molecular biology.

This degree aims to develop the capacity to understand the role of chemistry, molecular biology and mathematics in forensic and analytical science and apply their knowledge to problems in this area. Students will be able to use laboratory equipment and instrumentation in both the chemical and biological setting and present information about forensic and analytical science in a scientific manner, including communicating effectively with a variety of audiences in written and spoken form. This degree appreciates the multidisciplinary aspect of the discipline of forensic and analytical science and the role of forensic and analytical science in society, the regulatory framework within which it operates and the ethical issues it raises.

On completion of the this degree students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of and critically apply the theories, subject content, professional methodologies and research procedures relevant to the discipline of forensic and analytical science and work independently in a chemistry or molecular biology laboratory using appropriate techniques and instrumentation. Student will be able to analyse and critically evaluate ideas/information/data and apply relevant scientific principles to solve problems and understand the ethical issues in science with specific reference to legal and forensic issues. Students will be able to apply research skills appropriate to postgraduate research or advanced industrial investigation.

This degree prepares graduates for employment in various workplaces including private and public global organisations. Potential occupations may include forensic chemist, forensic biologist and forensic toxicologist; potential employers may include Forensic Science SA, AFP and other research facilities.