BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminal Investigation
This flexible online BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminal Investigation course explores criminal investigative processes alongside forensic methods used to collect and analyse evidence. You will cover crime scene investigation, police custody, witnesses, forensic trace analysis, forensic biology, death investigation and organised crime. It may suit those interested in investigative, policing, forensic or intelligence-related careers.
About this course
This online BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminal Investigation course examines how criminal investigations are carried out, from the initial response to a crime through to the collection, analysis and interpretation of evidence. It combines criminal investigation procedures with forensic approaches, helping you understand the roles of police custody, witnesses, crime scenes and investigative decision-making.
You will study areas including forensic trace analysis, forensic biology, death investigation and the coroner, and the application of forensic evidence. The course also considers wider policing and crime issues, such as intelligence, community policing, vulnerability and risk, and transnational organised crime.
The course is suited to adults seeking a flexible online route into forensic, investigative or law-enforcement-related study. Through practice-focused assessment, you will develop skills in interviewing, reporting, evidence handling and applying investigative procedures to case-based situations.
What you will study
Core study includes:
• Introduction to Forensic Investigation • Introduction to Criminal Investigation • Police Custody • Witnesses: An Introduction • Criminal Investigation: Procedures and Practices • Analysis and Application of Forensics • Forensic Trace Analysis • Forensic Biology • Civilian Employability • Death Investigation and the Coroner • Transnational Organised Crime • Special Investigations Portfolio
Further topics include intelligence, community policing, forensic anthropology, environmental forensics, and law enforcement vulnerability and risk.
Modules
Level 4
- Introduction to Forensic Investigation
- Introduction to Criminal Investigation
- Police Custody
- Witnesses: An Introduction
- Criminal Investigation: Procedures and Practices
- Analysis and Application of Forensics
Level 5
- Forensic Trace Analysis (core)
- Forensic Biology (core)
- Civilian Employability (core)
- Death Investigation and the Coroner (core)
- Transnational Organised Crime (optional)
- Intelligence (optional)
- Community Policing (optional)
Level 6
- Forensic Anthropology
- Environmental Forensics
- Law Enforcement: Vulnerability and Risk
- Special Investigations Portfolio
Assessment
Assessment uses authentic methods designed around investigative practice, including observations, interviews and written reports.
Entry requirements
Applicants normally need two GCE A levels, or equivalent qualifications, plus GCSE passes at grade C or above in three subjects, or equivalent.
Alternative Level 3 qualifications may be considered, including an Access to HE qualification, BTEC Extended Diploma or an international equivalent. Applications may also be considered on the basis of relevant previous work experience, references and a personal statement.
English language requirements
Applicants normally need IELTS 6.0 overall, with no element below 5.5, or TOEFL iBT 90. An equivalent English-language qualification may also be accepted. Evidence of previous study taught in English, such as a letter confirming English was the medium of instruction, may be considered.
Careers
The course may support progression into forensic investigation, law enforcement and intelligence-related work. Possible roles include civilian investigative officer, private financial investigator and intelligence analyst, including opportunities that may arise within a UK police force.
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