Discover the best UK universities for Forensic Science in 2026. These top schools combine cutting-edge labs, expert teaching, and strong career support to set you up for success.
Best Universities for Forensic Science: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Glasgow | 88 | 83 |
| 2 Silver | University of Strathclyde | 85 | 80 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Lincoln | 83 | 78 |
| 4 | University of Dundee | 82 | 76 |
| 5 | University of Liverpool | 80 | 81 |
| 6 | University of Leicester | 81 | 79 |
| 7 | University of Portsmouth | 78 | 77 |
| 8 | University of Huddersfield | 75 | 75 |
| 9 | Coventry University | 77 | 73 |
| 10 | University of Salford | 74 | 74 |
1. University of Glasgow Gold
2. University of Strathclyde Silver
3. University of Lincoln Bronze
4. University of Dundee
5. University of Liverpool
6. University of Leicester
7. University of Portsmouth
8. University of Huddersfield
9. Coventry University
10. University of Salford
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Forensic Science rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to give a well-rounded view of the best unis for this subject.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Student satisfaction, nightlife, cost of living, crime rate, cost of a pint and Uber
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score
Top-Ranked Forensic Science Universities Explained
University of Strathclyde
Known for excellent lab facilities, strong research, and close links to the forensic industry.University of Lincoln
Offers hands-on learning, modern labs, and high student satisfaction scores.University of Dundee
Famous for practical teaching, great employability, and strong student support.University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Strong focus on real-world skills and diverse forensic science modules.University of Portsmouth
Offers robust teaching quality and good balance of academic and social life.University of West London
Well-regarded for flexible courses and connections with law enforcement agencies.Coventry University
Known for practical experience, industry placements, and supportive campus community.University of Wolverhampton
Affordable with solid teaching and a focus on applied forensic science.University of Greenwich
Offers strong graduate employability and excellent access to London-based placements.University of Huddersfield
Provides a balance of academic rigor and practical skills with strong student satisfaction.Career Prospects After a Forensic Science Degree
Graduates often move into roles in crime labs, law enforcement, forensic consultancy, and research. Related courses include Criminology and Chemistry.
Forensic Science Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical requirements include science A-levels such as chemistry and biology, with UCAS points ranging around 120–160 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Forensic Science in the UK
Lincoln, Dundee, and Wolverhampton offer affordable living costs with strong course quality.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Glasgow, Liverpool, and Nottingham rank highly for nightlife alongside solid forensic programs.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Strathclyde, Lincoln, and Coventry offer excellent support tailored to forensic science students.
Not Sure About Forensic Science? Consider These Alternatives
Try Criminology, Biomedical Science, or Chemistry.
Summary: Which Forensic Science Uni is Right for You?
Consider practical training opportunities, lab quality, student support, and cost. Bookmark this guide to compare options easily.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Forensic Science
Top universities for Forensic Science include the University of Dundee, University of Lincoln, and University of Strathclyde, known for practical training and strong industry links.
The University of Dundee often ranks highly due to its excellent facilities, applied research, and strong student satisfaction scores.
A Forensic Science degree can lead to rewarding careers in crime labs, law enforcement, and legal consultancy, with growing demand for skilled graduates.
Typical entry requirements include Chemistry, Biology, and Maths A-levels or equivalents; check individual courses for specific prerequisites.
Graduates can work as forensic analysts, crime scene investigators, toxicologists, or legal advisors in both public and private sectors.
Demand is strong, especially in government agencies, police forces, and private forensic consultancies.
Starting salaries typically range from £20,000 to £28,000, rising with experience in forensic labs or investigative roles.
Courses with heavy lab work, chemistry, and case study analysis are considered more challenging; practical skills are essential.
Graduates often work in forensic labs, police departments, legal firms, government agencies, or private security companies.
Yes, Forensic Science degrees are respected for their scientific rigor and practical relevance, especially from UK universities with strong industry links.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
