Deakin University’s Bachelor of Forensic Science/Bachelor of Criminology is the only combined course in Victoria which provides the opportunity to study forensic science and criminology as a combined course. The course has been designed to enable graduates to work both in specialised fields and across professional boundaries. It is contemporary and relevant, with teaching staff who are active researchers in their respective fields. You will learn both arts and science traditions, giving you a broad appreciation of the professional, social, economic and cultural contexts of the forensic science and criminology disciplines. You will have the opportunity to learn the skills and techniques essential to modern forensic science, including the examination and presentation of scientific evidence and courtroom skills. The course will also give you practical, professional training to enable you to study critical analysis in the fields of policing, security, corrections, crime prevention and community safety, and various paralegal fields. In your forensic science studies you can choose to major in Forensic Biology or Forensic Chemistry. Other areas of study in the course include topics such as forensic analysis and interpretation, the criminal justice system, crime prevention and security, and designing and conducting criminological research. Graduates may also have the opportunity to go on to further study and enter honours and postgraduate programs.

As a graduate of this course, you may find employment opportunities as a forensic scientist, criminologist or related role, in both the public and private sector, including areas such as the forensic science industry, science-based industries, teaching, government agencies, state and federal police, ASIO, correctional services, community services, and private security industries.