Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons)

We provide a coherent learning experience for the student to acquire a broad knowledge and understanding of the principles and techniques of forensic investigation. We educate the student to become proficient in the collection, documentation, and analysis of intelligence from both physical and witness evidence, to enable the student to act the role of investigator and interviewer. The course explores both the examination and investigation of each of volume and serious incidents, from the crime scene to court. We aim to develop the student's transferable skills, especially in team working and in the communication and reporting of evidence in a fashion understandable to the general public. We encourage students to develop research skills that can be utilised effectively to pursue independent work in a specified area within the discipline of policing and forensic investigation. We offer an innovative mix of both the theoretical and practical elements of forensic investigation so that those on the course can fully appreciate the operational relevance of their studies. Importantly, students get hands-on use of a range of cutting edge technologies, including the use the Crime Scene House, criminalistic laboratory and an automated fingerprint identification system to develop investigative skills through practical application.

Students gain experience and knowledge and learn in many different ways. Over the course of your degree, you will be taught using a variety of learning and teaching strategies, which will include lectures, practical sessions, project supervision, demonstrations, and workshops. Many sessions will be conducted in a classroom or laboratory environment, but will also include a number of hands-on practical sessions and realistic crime scene scenarios and role-play situations. During your course, where possible, you will be given the opportunity to put into practice that which you learn in theory.
At levels 4 and 5 you undertake practical work and demonstrations alongside your theory classes. This, in turn, exposes you to a variety of processes and equipment types you may make use of in future careers. Level 4 focuses on the delivery of principles and concepts relating to forensic investigation, and you will also have your first introduction to a crime scene scenario. Lectures and practical sessions will be supported by small group tutorials. Your average class contact will be 12 hours per teaching week at this level. Level 5 develops your skills and knowledge gained at level 4, by introducing investigative skills and statement taking. This is achieved through the use of group practical sessions. Level 5 will also see a change of learning focus to a more student centred, independent style with average class contact of 10 -11 hours per teaching week. At level 6 there is an even greater shift of emphasis to student-centred, independent study. However, individual one to one tutorial sessions are required to ensure successful completion of your Independent Project.
You will also further develop your time management, team working and problem-solving skills through attendance at mock crime scenes and subsequent file preparation and attendance at a moot court. This level also allows you to select combinations of options modules to develop potential career paths. Average contact hours (including project time) will be 11-12 hours per teaching week. In conjunction with the tutor led sessions, directed study supports and builds upon the knowledge and skills learnt in class to provide a fuller understanding of the subject. Personal and module tutors are on hand to provide support to students to discuss queries. The curriculum is structured so that skills and knowledge developed in core modules can be transferred, reapplied and further developed. Regular meetings are built into the personal tutorial system and personal development planning to ensure that students constantly reflect upon, adapt and enhance their learning.