Program Overview

Introduction to Applied Criminology and Forensic Investigation, BSc

The Applied Criminology and Forensic Investigation degree is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in core criminological theories and forensic investigation techniques. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills valued by criminal justice and related employers.

Program Overview

The program is structured to provide students with a thorough understanding of the theories and procedures associated with a range of crime types, accidents, and disasters. The Applied Criminology part of the degree focuses on developing a solid foundation in core criminological theories, while the Forensic Investigation aspects aim to help students develop a solid foundation in core forensic themes, including Crime Scene Investigation and Interpretation & Presentation of Forensic Evidence.

Key Dates

• Academic Calendar: Semesters
• Welcome Week: An essential introduction to the course and the wider University, helping students to feel confident and prepared for their studies.
• Teaching Timetable: UniTimetables provides an overview of all teaching activities for the course.

Course Structure

At Level 4, students will study:

• Student Success Modules
• Introduction to Criminology and Forensic Investigation
• Criminal Justice and Accountability
• Becoming a Criminologist
• Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation

Teaching Team

The Applied Criminology and Forensic Investigation teams are comprised of industry and research experts who are still professionally active in their chosen field, undertaking work for various agencies alongside their lecturing duties. External subject matter experts are also brought in for certain sessions to ensure that the student experience is as current and extensive as possible.

Pre-Course Preparation

Students are advised to start familiarizing themselves with national and international crime agencies, such as the British Society of Criminology, Europol, and Interpol. They are also recommended to watch crime documentaries, read books about real-life crime, and regularly read about crime issues in newspapers and online with a critical viewpoint.

Recommended Reading

For pre-course reading, students are recommended to read academic criminology or forensic introductory textbooks, such as:

• Burke, R. (2018) An Introduction to Criminological Theory
• Coyle, T. and White, P. ed. (2016) Crime Scene To Court: The Essentials Of Forensic Science
• Davies, M., Croall. & Tyrer, J. (2015) Criminal Justice
• Hale, C., Hayward, K., Wahidin, A. & Wincup, E. (2013) Criminology
• Jackson, A. and Jackson, J. (2016) Forensic Science
• Newburn, T. (2017) Criminology
• Saferstein, R. (2015) Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science

Community and Support

The Student Union (CCSU) has a huge range of clubs and societies, offering endless opportunities to make lifelong friends and discover new hobbies. International students can also register for the international student success programme, which provides practical advice on preparing to live and study in the UK.