Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences
The next DFMS examinations will take place on the dates below:
Friday 8 May 2026 - Application and payment deadline
Tuesday 7 July 2026 - Online Written Paper Examination
Friday 17 July 2026 - Dissertation
Entry Fee: Written Paper & Dissertation £950
Resit Fees: Written Paper £500 / Dissertation £450
Please note: “You may now complete each component individually at first entry; however, both components must be completed within three years of completing the course to receive the DFMS diploma.”
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 - (including the examination timetable, fees and deadlines)
Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences - Syllabus
Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences - Dissertation Titles (2026)
Applications for entry to the 2026 examination are now closed
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 - Friday 8 May
Written Paper (Online) - Tuesday 7 July 2026
Dissertation Submission deadline - Friday 17 July 2026 (via an online platform)
Click here to book your exam.
Reasonable Adjustments - If you are eligible to apply for reasonable adjustments to your exam sitting, for example, due to a long term condition such as dyslexia or, illness which may affect your exam performance, please contact academicadmin@apothecaries.org to request a Form Q.
Reasonable adjustments will reflect a report written by an educational assessor or appropriate medical professional (which you are responsible for obtaining).
Academic Policies for Candidates
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.
