Course summary

Forensic investigators are key players in investigating and solving crime and they often provide the evidence that ensures offenders are brought to justice. Work at the cutting edge of crime in a job where every day is different. You will develop practical skills using a range of mock crime scenes, laboratories, policing and court facilities, supported by our expert teaching team who have worked as practitioners or researchers within forensics and other related fields. Our students say that this course is both engaging and exciting, and the extensive experience of the teaching team is invaluable. Current forensic professionals confirm that our course is accurate, innovative and relevant to a range of careers. The foundation year is designed to cement your confidence in the foundations of key forensic and scientific principles as well as study skills. These will be needed to help you progress through the rest of your degree studies. We have performed well in National Student Survey 2022 for student satisfaction with 91% of our students being satisfied overall with their course. Professional accreditation The Forensic Investigation course adheres to and is guided by the QAA Benchmark Statements for Forensic Science, which define expectations as part of the UK Quality Code for Higher Education. Specialist facilities The forensic facilities include a range of crime scenes, including cars, crime scene rooms, fire scenes and outside scenes, a forensic workshop and further science laboratories. A wide range of forensic equipment is housed within these areas and the facilities and equipment used depends on whether you study Forensic Investigation as a single or combined honours degree. We have a dedicated crime scene facility containing bedrooms and a blood distribution room, a Victorian graveyard and dedicated outdoor space, two fire scenes, a forensic laboratory and five further science laboratories. We also make use of the university's Hydra suite and court room facilities to simulate giving evidence, all with relevant equipment attached. Location This course is run at our Canterbury Campus in Kent. Canterbury is just 50 miles south-east of London and less than an hour by high-speed train from St Pancras. Located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site the campus offers state-of-the-art buildings, right in the centre of a vibrant and world-famous cathedral city. You’ll benefit from a campus with excellent learning and teaching resources, music venues, a superb sports centre, a well-stocked bookshop and plenty of coffee bars and places to eat. A short walk away is Augustine House our award-winning library and home to a vast range of learning resources and student support teams.