Criminal and Corporate Investigation

This course has been developed with input from leading investigation, intelligence, security and financial specialists. As a result, you will develop the necessary industry standard skills and experience to carry out professional investigations to the highest level within commercial, public or criminal justice settings. It is essential that all investigations are carried out professionally, and with our commitment to your training we will ensure all of our investigators gain essential legal knowledge as well as the ability to conduct professional investigations whilst establishing and securing admissible evidence.

The combination of practical role-play based activities and classroom teaching means that you are confident, ready and fully equipped to be a valuable asset to any organisation. If you are interested in a career in professional investigation, or are investigators seeking an academic qualification to enhance your skills, then this course provides a comprehensive introduction to key theoretical and practical issues, providing you with the knowledge and skills to confidently undertake professionally conducted investigations.

The course, which has a wider focus than the Police Service, is underpinned by national policing practices and initiatives, such as the nationally recognised, 'Professionalising the Investigation Programme'. Throughout the course we look in depth at a variety of investigation methods, such as interview technique, the law surrounding investigations and Cyber Crime. The real strength of the programme is that it has a strong practical element that allows you to demonstrate your skills in scenario-based investigations.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Course Modules

STAGE 1:

• Law and The Criminal Justice System (Compulsory)

• Introduction to Evidence and Procedure (Compulsory)

• Crime and Criminality (Compulsory)

• Legislation for Policing and Investigators (Compulsory)

• Introduction to Investigative Interviewing (Compulsory)

• Theoretical Concepts in Crime Scene Investigations (Compulsory)

• Introduction to Academic Methods and Research (Compulsory)

STAGE 2:

• Corporate Investigation and Crime (Compulsory)

• Investigation and Investigating Interviewing 2 (Compulsory)

• The Management of Major Investigations (Compulsory)

• Investigating Serious and Organised Crime (Compulsory)

• Covert Investigations (Compulsory)

• Research Skills for Investigations (Compulsory)

• Open Source Intelligence for Investigations (Compulsory)

STAGE 3:

• Independent Study (Compulsory)

• Cyber Crime (Compulsory)

• Advanced Evidence and Procedure (Compulsory)

• Employment Investigations (Compulsory)

• Miscarriages of Justice (Compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 26/27 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly. 27/28 entry modules will be released in June 2027.

Assessment are varied and consist of:

• presentations

• essays

• assignments

• skills labs

• practical exercises

• reports

• reflective accounts and video presentations

• exams and multiple choice tests.

Paper based assignments are submitted electronically and are returned within 3 weeks.