Forensic Investigations

Discover crime scene analysis, forensic science and evidence law while gaining hands-on skills to uncover the truth, preparing you for an impactful career in investigative and law enforcement roles.

This course combines academic insight with hands-on experience in a range of investigative practices. Tackle real-life case studies, work on scenarios that mirror actual investigations and gain industry insights through optional work placements and visits.

Industry-relevant curriculum: learn hands-on skills and techniques to dive into areas like crime scene investigation, digital crime detection, fraud analysis, forensics and interviewing.
Skills development: learn to interpret data, detect digital crimes and analyse fraud cases. Carry out mock suspect interviews and learn how to conduct surveillance operations in both urban and rural settings. Review a range of historical investigations, considering the appropriate actions that should be taken by a senior investigating officer.
Industry-focused learning: gain hands-on experience with real-life scenarios, case studies and industry perspectives. This can involve learning from professionals within law enforcement agencies, civilian investigative bodies or forensic science professionals such as crime scene investigators.

Why you should study this course

• Digital investigative tools: learn how to use digital tools to research fraud, and 3D and VR techniques to visualise virtual evidence and scenes of crime.

• Project-based learning: work on complex problems, create tangible solutions and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Assessments are designed to replicate the type of work and tasks carried out by those working in forensic investigations. You could find yourself producing interview plans, portfolios of evidence or surveillance operational plans, and giving evidence as an expert witness in a mock trial to showcase your expertise and real-world readiness.

• Simulation facilities: access a variety of simulation facilities that create realistic learning opportunities. Learn in our mock prison cells, crime scene houses, immersive labs and VR suites. Our well-equipped laboratories offer industry-standard facilities for forensic science techniques.

• Specialised expertise: our dedicated staff, with backgrounds in policing and forensic science, deliver in-depth knowledge of investigation specialisms, providing insights into forensic techniques and policing practices. Furthermore, they'll offer tailored guidance to help you shape your future career path.

• Community learning: shared modules with students from related courses will place you in learning groups, providing valuable opportunities for peer learning and developing your teamwork skills.

On successful completion of the course, you should be a globally and interculturally aware graduate ready to make a dynamic difference in the world. You could find yourself working in the following roles:

• Crime scene investigator

• Forensic laboratory analyst

• Digital forensics examiner

• Detective (required further study)

• Scene of crime officer

• Fraud investigator

• Intelligence officer

• Border force or customs officer

• Aviation security officer

• CCTV intelligence officer

• Criminal justice policy analyst.

Please visit our website for the most up-to-date information.

Course Modules

Year One Modules:
Investigative Practice
Investigative Interviewing
Information Retrieval and Reporting Skills
Forensic Science Methods

Year Two Modules:
Digital Evidence and Fraud Investigation
Forensic Visual Imaging
Crime Scene Analysis
Understanding Evidence

Sandwich Year:
There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Final Year Modules:
Investigating Serious and Complex Crimes
Practical Surveillance Skills
Forensic Investigations Research Project

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.