Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences
The next DFMS examinations will take place on the dates below:
Online Written Paper Examination - Tuesday 7 July 2026
Dissertation - Friday 17 July 2026
Entry Fee: Written Paper & Dissertation £950
Resit Fees: Written Paper £500 / Dissertation £450
The Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences was instituted by the Society of Apothecaries of London in 1998. It is intended to demonstrate knowledge of forensic medical sciences for those who are involved with or interested in medico-legal work. It is open to all who have completed a course in forensic medical sciences run either by the Academy of Forensic Medical Sciences [formerly at Barts and the London, QMU] in London or the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.
For information on the course held in London please see www.afms.org.uk
For information on the course held in Glasgow please see https://www.strath.ac.uk/research/subjects/chemistry/centreforforensicscience/continuingprofessionaldevelopment/#seminar-series
Examination Documentation
Guide to the Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences - (incorporating the Regulations)
Administrative Guidance for Candidates DFMS- (including the examination timetable, fees and deadlines)
Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences - Syllabus
Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences - Dissertation Titles (2026) - coming soon!
Applications for entry to the 2026 examination will open in the Autumn.
To make an application please go to 'shop' above and select the Centre for Health Studies Shop, go to the exams section, choose DFMS, select the entry option you require, you will be asked to create an account to complete your payment. You will then be directed to our online learning platform Brightspace to complete your application form.
Please refer to the Administrative Guidance for Candidates for dissertation topic titles, dates, deadlines and fees
Application Deadline - TBC
Written Paper (Online) - Tuesday 7 July 2026
Dissertation Submission deadline - Friday 17 July 2026 (via an online platform)
Click here to book your exam.
Academic Policies for Candidates
Examination-Review-and-Appeal-Procedure The Society's Review and Appeal Procedure gives information about feedback, review and appeal. Candidates who seek a review or appeal should note that there is a fee payable, the amount of which is given the the relevant Guide to the Diploma, including the Regulations and Syllabus.
Pass Papers
Past Examination Papers - WRITTEN PAPER
A booklet of past examination papers is available from the Academic Department at a cost of £20.00. Payment can be made via https://catalogue.apothecaries.org/product?catalog=past_papers and follow payment instructions.
