The Bachelor of Forensic Science/Bachelor of Criminology trains students to examine the many facets of crime. Understanding the nature of crime and the motivations behind criminal behavior is a sought-after skill and is particularly powerful when combined with expertise in modern forensic science. By developing skills in these complementary disciplines, they will graduate with more career options and a broader perspective of crime and the justice system.
This industry-led combined degree is designed in partnership with the Australian Crime Commission, ensuring students' study experience reflects the everyday challenges of their future career. Practical learning is a key focus within this degree. They will develop their skills in Deakin University's purpose-built crime scene training facility, gain industry experience through work-integrated learning opportunities and learn from international leaders in criminology.
Led by a team of highly experienced criminology and forensic science experts, the Bachelor of Forensic Science/Bachelor of Criminology gives students a glimpse into the minds of criminals, while training them to confidently examine, interpret and present forensic evidence.
This combined course draws from both the arts and science disciplines. Students will develop a broad appreciation of the professional, social, economic and cultural contexts of why crimes are committed and learn how to examine evidence using modern forensic analysis techniques.
In the forensic science stream, students will choose to specialize in either forensic biology or forensic chemistry. Depending on their major, they will cover a range of disciplines including:
- toxicology
- analysis of illicit drugs
- DNA analysis
- blood spatter pattern analysis
- entomology
Deakin University's purpose-built crime scene facility lets students apply the theory they learn in the classroom in a simulated crime scene environment. Students will search for evidence, conduct forensic analysis and get hands-on training taking an investigation from the crime scene to the courtroom.
In the criminology stream, students will explore topics that are crucial to the prevention of crime, including cyber security, surveillance, anti-terrorism and policing. They will learn about the historical repercussions, technological developments and media representations of crime and the desirable outcomes of criminal justice processes. Students will get hands-on experience through optional internships, allowing them to bridge theory with practice and gain insight into how the study of criminology applies across different industries and sectors. They can even take their learning overseas and gain a global perspective on how other countries approach criminology.
Deakin University's course is designed with input from professional bodies including Victoria Police and the Australian Crime Commission. This means students will develop the skills in demand by employers and graduate ready to tackle criminal justice issues in fields including:
- anti-corruption agencies
- correctional services
- community services
- crime prevention agencies
- intelligence agencies
- law enforcement
- local, state and federal government
- private security industries
- state and federal police
