The Forensic Scientist Summer Experience

Immersive Forensic Experiences

• Package and recover key pieces of evidence at a simulated crime scene.
• Work alongside specialists to perform fingerprint and blood spatter analysis to identify a suspect.
• Write and deliver expert witness testimony in a courtroom setting and receive feedback from professionals.
• Enter the lab and take part in a DNA extraction exercise.

Gain a Qualification and UCAS Points

• Gain practical forensic experience to enhance your university application and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
• Have your work assessed to receive a Level 3 Award in Work Experience and Career Planning, worth 8 UCAS points.
• Complete the online assessment after the programme to receive a personalised certificate and an industry reference letter.

Meet Senior Forensic Scientists

• Be guided by forensic experts specialising in blood spatter, fingerprint analysis, toxicology, anthropology and first response.
• Attend private networking sessions to connect with professionals who may support your future career.

Career Coaching

• Receive expert coaching on how to pursue competitive careers in forensic science.
• Guidance on subject choices, university applications, work experience and extra-curricular activities.
• Receive a personalised industry reference letter from forensic scientists confirming your achievements on the programme.

World-Class Universities and World-Class People

• Experience life at University College London (UCL), one of the best universities in the world.
• Meet ambitious students from around the globe and build an international network through shared forensic experiences.

Design Your Own Summer Experience

• Choose from the following programme formats:
  • First Week Only (taster experience)
  • Two-Week Experience (full programme)
  • Two-Week Enhanced Experience (both weeks plus enhanced benefits)
• Choose either residential or non-residential attendance.
• Residential students stay in UCL student halls in central London, with meals, guardianship and evening/weekend activities included.
• Optional airport transfers are available at checkout.

Week 1

The Forensic Mindset

• Explore the daily work of forensic scientists in the field and laboratory
• Develop soft skills such as critical thinking and decision-making
• Learn practical skills including analytical techniques and UV light use

Become the CSI

• Understand crime scene strategy, hygiene protocols and essential forensic equipment
• Take on historic forensic case studies
• Test your attention to detail and problem-solving skills

Enter the Crime Scene

• Act as a first responder and fingerprint analyst
• Learn how to collect and package evidence and sketch a crime scene
• Match fingerprints to suspects and understand surface effects on prints

Blood Spatter Analysis

• Learn types, terminology and classifications of bloodstain patterns
• Generate and examine spatter to identify crime scenarios
• Reconstruct events using bloodstain size, shape and distribution

Week 2

Forensic Specialisms

• Explore the field of fire and explosives investigation
• Learn from forensic analysts as you examine evidence left behind after suspected arson
• Explore forensic anthropology and build profiles using skeletal remains

The Courtroom

• Act as an expert witness in a simulated courtroom and compile your case
• Deliver expert testimony and undergo cross-examination with feedback
• Learn from forensic scientists who have testified in major cases

Networking Event with Top Forensic Scientists

• Network with specialists in various forensic science disciplines
• Ask questions, apply your knowledge and receive expert career advice

Graduation & Certification

• Celebrate your achievements
• Receive an industry reference letter signed by professionals

2-Week Enhanced

Overview

• Includes all Week 1 and Week 2 activities plus enhanced benefits

Highlights

• 15 extra contact hours with professionals
• Build a professional development portfolio
• Attend masterclasses on CVs, LinkedIn, personal branding and Oxbridge/Ivy League applications
• Take psychometric tests to understand your strengths and motivations
• Compete in a strategy simulation and network with professionals in London

Start Dates
19th July 2027

Venues
The programme is based at UCL and the surrounding University of London campus. Certain days take place in other key industry locations in London

Accommodation
Students live on university campus in central London and are allocated to halls of residence used by University of London students, including those from UCL and LSE. We typically occupy a range of halls, including Garden Halls, College Hall, International Hall and Frances Gardner House.

All rooms are single and en-suite.