The University of the Free State has recently been granted approval to offer an undergraduate degree in Forensic Science – the first of its kind in South Africa!
Vanessa Lynch & Carolyn Hancock of The DNA Project with members of the Forensic Dept at the launch of the Hons degree in 2010
The degree will be a 3-year B. Sc. degree in Forensic Sciences. The curriculum offered will be as follows:
1st year – The foundational year will involve the study of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.
2nd year – During the second year of study students will take modules in Genetics, Chemistry, and Forensic Science. The Forensic Science module will include an introduction to Forensic Science, Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Photography and applicable legislation).
The UFS
3rd year – Students will choose between third year modules in Genetics or Chemistry. In addition they will complete advanced modules in Forensic Science (including ballistics), Physical Evidence (including the study of imprints and fiber analysis), Forensic Entomology and DNA Forensics.
For admission to this degree students require an AP score of 34 and an accumulated score of 17 for Maths, Physical Science and Life Science.
Forensic Hons Student at the UFS
A maximum of 80 students will be admitted per year. Students have to apply before September 30th 2013 for admission in 2014.
On completion of the undergraduate program, post-graduate level students can continue with Forensic Science, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Genetics or Forensic Entomology.
For people who are interested in a lecturing position at the University, a senior lecturer position will be advertised in the Sunday Times and Rapport on 7th April. Preference will be given to candidates who are Forensic Scientists or those with a doctorate in Physics.
For more information contact Prof. Spies at SpiesJJ@ufs.ac.za
i am grade 9 and want to study forensics what degree would be best to start with.
I’m still in grade 12 i want to do forensic at the UFS next year so i’m contradicted please help where can i work as a forensic scientist after my studies..?
Hi Brendon
In terms of employment opportunities following your studies, the Forensic Services Division of the South African Police Force would be your best source as it’s the structure under which all disciplines of forensics fall.
DNA Project Team
I have. Nqf 5 in forensic science n working in saps .I want to continue with this qualification!can u help me so I can register part time.
Hi there I want to become a fornsic photographer. IS YOUR COURE sasseta ACCREDITED?
I AM STUDING BA GOVERNANCE AND POLITICAL TRASFOMATION AT UFS. I AM INTERESTED IN THIS COURSE AN I DONT HAVE WHAT IS REQUIRED. WHAT TO DO
Hi Nqojana
It would be best to contact the Department of Genetics at UFS directly in the first instance to discuss your suitability and interest in enrolling in the course. They will be able to advise you more as to the various options that may be available with regards to changing your degree from a BA to a BSc in Forensic Science.
UFS Department of Genetics
Email: Genetics@ufs.ac.za
Tel: 051 401 2595
A brochure regarding the undergraduate degree and entry requirements can be downloaded here.
Alternatively, a diploma in forensic science is offered by a company called Forensics 4 Africa. In this regard you could contact Pierre Joubert at: pierre@forensics4africa.com or visit their website, http://www.forensics4africa.com, for further details regarding their courses and enrolment.
Kind regards
DNA Project
hi, this forensic science field is interesting, well in this particular juncture im currently in grade 11 n i want to go to UFS, can i apply when im nt a matriculent yet?
Dear Tholisang
The first thing you need to work on before applying to any university, is your grammar and vocabulary. If you are going to enquire about a position, and if you expect someone to reply, ‘texting’ language in an email is inappropriate. This applies to everyone who sends us an email and doesn’t even bother to complete a word or sentence correctly.
We will happily respond to anyone who at the very least, can take this small step.
You may send your enquiries to maya@dnaproject.co.za
Hello.im currently a student at ufs doing genetics.can we also apply?
Hi I am a grade 12 Student interested in the field of Forensic science and would really like more information on this field of study and how do I go about applying to study in this field.
Thanks
Tracy
Please contact Maya Moodley at maya@dnaproject.co.za for more information.
I have completed my Btech in Forensic investigations and just recently enrolled for a Bsc in Microbiology and Biochemistry with a view of doing a forensic science as a postgraduate degree. This has just made my year, I can now do it undergraduate. Thanks to UFS.
Wow!!! Great news, slowly we are moving in the right direction. A pitty I am too old to do this but a great opportunity for young people with a passion!!