Major project in Criminology only

You will develop as a social researcher, equipped to undertake your own research projects. You will learn how to design research plans, manage ethical issues, undertake data analysis, and present your findings. You will develop skills in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, and practice methods in small group settings. You will apply your learning to a research topic of your choice, developing and generating knowledge on real-world phenomena relevant to your intended future career. You will be supported one-to-one by a supervisor with research expertise who can advise throughout your project. You will develop investigative, analytical and presentation skills that will be of value throughout your career.

This module critically examines the multifaceted ways in which state actions can contribute to social harms, injustices, and environmental degradation. Students will explore state-induced crimes through a critical criminological lens, focusing on how policies and actions can perpetuate systemic inequalities and harm both individuals and communities globally. The module introduces sense-making theories, providing tools to analyse and evaluate the impact of state actions on broader social injustices, including ecological damage and economic inequality. Through a combination of theoretical insights and real-world case studies, students will critically assess topics such as state violence, environmental harms, economic policies, and human rights violations. Key learning outcomes include the ability to analyse the global impacts of state-induced crimes, apply theoretical frameworks, and devise strategies for mitigating harms. The module emphasises practical, socially responsible approaches to addressing systemic issues, equipping students with actionable skills to contribute to meaningful change. With a structured curriculum spanning ten weeks, topics include the historical and contemporary dimensions of state crime, environmental and social injustices, and the role of human rights frameworks. By the end, students will be well-prepared to critically engage with these pressing global challenges and advocate for justice in diverse contexts.

Core on Equal in Forensic Biology only

You will undertake an in-depth research project on a topic of your choice that aligns with your course and reflects the interests and passions you have developed during the first two years of your degree. This is your opportunity to explore a subject in detail, applying and extending your knowledge in a meaningful way.

Throughout this process, you will strengthen your critical thinking and analytical skills while conducting independent research under the guidance of a lecturer. Your dissertation will serve as a substantial piece of scholarly work, demonstrating your ability to understand, apply, and evaluate scientific concepts relevant to your discipline.

In completing this project, you will refine your academic writing and learn to communicate complex ideas with clarity and precision. Ultimately, the dissertation represents the culmination of your undergraduate education and provides a strong foundation for your future career as a biological scientist.

With major project in Forensic Biology only

You will critically analyse justifications of punishment over history to the present day, nationally and internationally. You will examine different types of punishment and their use in penal policy. You will develop knowledge of the role of punishment practitioners and their practices. You will study the impact of gender, race, religion, age, class, sex, and disability on the delivery and experience of punishment, with case studies on current social issues such as transgender prisoner policy, and the challenges of young and aging prison populations. You will critically assess the ethics of imprisonment and other punishment, and a range of perspectives on criminal justice reform, including arguments for rehabilitation outside prisons and abolitionist perspectives.

This module will provide an insight into the biological aspects of the work of forensic scientists and related professions. It will also provide an understanding of the work of associated services e.g. police, crime scene investigator, identification specialists, legal specialists.

The main aim is to place forensic science in its historical context and give insight into the development of this modern science. Also to give an insight into the use of forensic techniques in areas of  research including crime scene analysis.

A module to discuss advanced analytical and sampling techniques used for forensic science, building on previous material. Underlying theories will be supported with case studies and practical elements, showcasing how to apply these procedures and techniques to active crime scenes.

Core on Equal in Forensic Biology only

This module explores the fundamental concepts and applications of modern biotechnology. It begins by examining the cellular and molecular organization of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, the structure and function of biological macromolecules, and key biochemical processes such as transcription, translation, and enzyme catalysis. The module delves into the stoichiometry and kinetics of microbial growth, as well as the metabolic pathways and signalling mechanisms that regulate cellular function.

Building on this foundation, the module connects these biological principles to biotechnological applications, focusing on bioprocesses and industrial biotechnology. Topics include energy metabolism, genetic engineering, bioreactor design, upstream and downstream stages, and bioprocess scalability, with an emphasis on traditional and cutting-edge technologies. Ultimately, this module provides the knowledge necessary to understand and innovate within the biotechnology industry, integrating cellular mechanisms and bioprocess engineering for the production of commercial bioproducts.