UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH · UNITED KINGDOM
Criminology and Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons)
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Utilises facilities shared with a real police force.Forensic Facilities
- Develops specialist forensic skills in simulated environments.Practical Skills
- Explores innovative techniques like Virtual Reality.Cutting-Edge Tech
- Learn from active industry professionals and researchers.Expert Tutors
- Opportunity for a paid work placement year.Connected Degree
- Ranked 17th for Criminology in the UK.National Ranking
This Bachelor of Science (with Honours) degree explores criminology and forensic investigation from multiple perspectives. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of both the causes of crime and the scientific methods used to investigate it. The course emphasizes practical skills development through simulated crime scenes and laboratory work, utilizing facilities shared with real police forces to ensure relevance and up-to-date learning. You'll examine how forensic evidence fits within the broader criminal justice system, from initial investigation to courtroom proceedings, and delve into the factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in criminology and forensic science, with opportunities to tailor your studies through a range of optional modules. The standard full-time program is three years, but options for a foundation year and a work placement year are available.
- Year 1
- Fundamentals of Criminology
- Introduction to Forensic Investigation
- Criminal Justice System
- Research Methods for Criminology and Forensics
- Year 2
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Evidence Analysis and Interpretation
- Theories of Crime
- Optional Modules (e.g., Forensic Interviewing, Policing)
- Year 3
- Dissertation/Research Project
- Forensic Technologies and Developments
- Contemporary Issues in Criminology
- Optional Modules (e.g., Crime and Mental Health, Dangerous Offenders)
Careers
Graduates develop transferable skills valuable across various sectors, including problem-solving and analysis. The degree prepares students for careers within the criminal justice system and beyond.
- Police Officer
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Forensic Analyst
- Probation Officer
- Fraud Investigator
- Detective
- Criminal Intelligence Analyst
- Youth Offending Officer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Criminology and Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons) program?
- Applicants generally need 120-128 UCAS points from 3 A levels or equivalent. A foundation year option is available for students who do not meet these direct entry requirements.
- How do I apply for the Criminology and Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons) program?
- You can apply via the UCAS system for standard applications, typically by January for September entry. The course is also available through Clearing after A-Level results are released, usually in August.
- What career paths can I pursue with this degree?
- Graduates are prepared for various roles within the criminal justice system and beyond, including Police Officer, Crime Scene Investigator, Forensic Analyst, Probation Officer, and Fraud Investigator. The degree also supports further study at Masters or PhD level.
- Is accommodation guaranteed for international students?
- Guaranteed accommodation is offered for applicants who accept an offer within 24 hours and apply for accommodation by 19 August 2026. Accommodation options start from £142 per week.
Entry requirements
A Levels120-128 UCAS points from 3 A levels or equivalent.
Foundation year options are available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements. The university also offers the opportunity to learn a foreign language for free as part of the degree.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the university website for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the university website for current home tuition fees.
LivingAccommodation options start from £142 per week.
The course is available through Clearing. Guaranteed accommodation is offered for applicants who accept an offer within 24 hours and apply for accommodation by 19 August 2026.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements. Use the UCAS points calculator if needed.
2. Apply via UCAS or ClearingSubmit your application through the UCAS portal for standard applications. If you are eligible for Clearing (e.g., you don't have an offer, or your results are different than expected), contact the university's Clearing Hotline on 023 9284 8090.
3. Receive an OfferIf you meet the criteria, you will receive an offer from the university.
4. Accept Your OfferIf you are happy with the offer, accept it through UCAS or by following the instructions provided during Clearing.
5. Arrange AccommodationIf you accept your offer, you may be eligible for guaranteed accommodation if you apply within 24 hours and meet the accommodation application deadline (e.g., 19 August 2026 for September 2026 entry).
6. Prepare for EnrolmentAwait further instructions regarding enrolment and the start of your studies in September.
Accreditation
The module 'Economic Crime and Fraud Examination' is recognised by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), offering students subsidised rates to complete the Certified Fraud Examiner qualification.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Criminology and Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons) program?
+
Applicants generally need 120-128 UCAS points from 3 A levels or equivalent. A foundation year option is available for students who do not meet these direct entry requirements.
How do I apply for the Criminology and Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons) program?
+
You can apply via the UCAS system for standard applications, typically by January for September entry. The course is also available through Clearing after A-Level results are released, usually in August.
What career paths can I pursue with this degree?
+
Graduates are prepared for various roles within the criminal justice system and beyond, including Police Officer, Crime Scene Investigator, Forensic Analyst, Probation Officer, and Fraud Investigator. The degree also supports further study at Masters or PhD level.
Is accommodation guaranteed for international students?
+
Guaranteed accommodation is offered for applicants who accept an offer within 24 hours and apply for accommodation by 19 August 2026. Accommodation options start from £142 per week.