Australia’s only professionally accredited forensic science degree
Get hands-on in Deakin’s crime scene training facility
Learn alongside experts from leading forensic organisations
Key facts
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
Deakin’s Bachelor of Forensic Science exposes you to the full scope of modern forensic science, from simulated crime scenes to courtroom presentations. With a strong focus on practical training, you’ll graduate with the skills needed to confidently examine, interpret and present forensic evidence. You’ll enhance your courtroom skills by building knowledge of the science behind criminal investigations and gain practical experience in our unique crime scene training facility.
Forensic science at Deakin is a comprehensive and flexible degree. You’ll cover a wide range of disciplines including illicit drugs analysis, DNA analysis and more. You can customise your degree to your interests by selecting to specialise in forensic biology or forensic chemistry. You’ll then learn how to apply modern forensic analysis in authentic environments like Deakin’s purpose-built training facilities.
Want to study the only professionally accredited forensic science degree in Australia?
Alongside extensive practical training, you’ll explore a range of disciplines throughout your course, including:
- toxicology
- analysis of illicit drugs
- DNA analysis
- bloodstain pattern analysis
- entomology
- decomposition
Taking your technical skills into the field, you will experience crime scene examination and evidence collection to laboratory analysis, interpretation of results and communication of your findings to investigators, including presenting evidence in a moot court.
Complement your technical knowledge and be better prepared to present in court by developing a strong understanding of the Australian legal system, including how law is developed, criminal and civil law, and the laws of evidence.
This course has extensive industry links with local and Australian forensic organisations, and features guest speakers from leaders in the field. Industry connections are leveraged to put you right in the middle of real-world forensic science environments.
The Bachelor of Forensic Science is professionally accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. Deakin is the first university in the Asia-Pacific region and the only university in Australia to offer professionally accredited forensic sciences courses, meaning, you can potentially work anywhere in the world. Enhance your networking opportunities further by applying for membership of the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS).
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Forensic Science
- Year
2023 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400315231 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
- Deakin code
- S324
- CRICOS code?
- 073106G Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Forensic Science, students must attain 24 credit points, which must include the following:
- Twelve (12) core units (12 credit points);
- A six (6) credit point major sequence in either Forensic Chemistry or Forensic Biology;
- Six (6) credit points of elective units;
- Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- No more than 10 credit points at level 1
- At least 6 credit points at level 3 (at least 4 must be SLE coded units).
With careful planning, students may use up to six of their remaining electives on units offered outside the Faculty such as units in Criminology, for example.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.
12
Core units
6
Elective units
6
Major units
24
Total
Core
Level 1 - Trimester 1
Plus one elective (one credit point)
Level 1 - Trimester 2
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Plus two elective/major units (two credit points)
Level 2 - Trimester 2
Plus three elective/major units (three credit points)
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Plus three elective/major units (three credit points)
Level 3 - Trimester 2
Plus three elective/major units (three credit points)
^Assumed knowledge: SLE133 Chemistry in our World or high achievement in VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 (or equivalent).
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
Electives
Select from a range of electives offered across many courses. In some cases you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Major sequences
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
*Enrolment in a Trimester 3 study period is compulsory
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
You may be required to complete units in Trimester 3 depending on your chosen major. Please refer to the Handbook for unit offering patterns.
Work experience
This course aims to provide students with a holistic experience of their role as forensic analysts. You will have the opportunity to visit a court, a crime scene and participate in a ‘moot court’ which allows students to experience a simulated courtroom environment.
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Entry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE Prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
ATAR
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Admissions information
Learn more about this course and others that Deakin offers by visiting VTAC for more information. You can also discover how Deakin compares to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning by visiting the ComparED website.
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enables Deakin to consider disadvantageous circumstances you may have experienced and their impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you're from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements.
You can also find out about different entry pathways into Deakin courses if you can't get in straight from high school.
Finally, Deakin is committed to admissions transparency. As part of that commitment, you can learn more about our first intake of 2022 students (PDF, 804.3KB) - their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Direct applications are open for applicants who are not currently in Year 12, including:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE study
- applicants with higher education study.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Forensic Science with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Through your extensive practical training, you’ll graduate with the technical and soft skills needed to thrive in a range of areas including:
- forensic laboratories
- insurance investigations
- risk analysis
- research science
- policing
- government institutions
- chemical, biological, food and pharmaceutical industries.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Forensic Science has been professionally accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. Students of this course are encouraged to apply for membership of the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS).
The Bachelor of Forensic Science (Chemistry major) has been professionally accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). Graduates of this course are encouraged to apply for membership of the respective local branch of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of forensic disciplines including forensic chemistry, forensic biology and the science in the crime scene to the courtroom. Apply analysis and interpretation techniques in order to deduce and test hypothesis in a variety of professional contexts. Explain and present the strengths of scientific results and associated limitations in professional environments. |
| Communication | Use appropriate terminology and standard operating procedures to note take, document and present a variety of accumulated information. Judge how well to present essential details of scientific procedures, key observations, results and conclusions in a professional manner using appropriate style, language and references including local, national, international contributions and contexts. Converse with scientific and non-scientific audiences using appropriate language and methods of communication to clearly articulate scientific procedures and outcomes. |
| Digital literacy | Apply well-developed technical skills, judgement and responsibility to independently locate, analyse, evaluate the merits of, synthesise and disseminate scientific literature, information, data and results. |
| Critical thinking | Interpret and evaluate information from a number of areas including a body of knowledge from the scholarly literature, laboratory data and other individuals to place the information in a scientific context. Use critical and analytical thinking and judgement to analyse, synthesise and generate an integrated knowledge, and to formulate hypotheses and test them against evidence-based scientific concepts and principles. |
| Problem solving | Take into account relevant contextual factors to approach problems and make informed decisions that will assist in finding appropriate solutions to problems in forensic science. Advocate scientific methodologies, hypotheses, laws, facts and principles to create solutions to real world problems and forensic scenarios. |
| Self-management | Take personal, professional and social responsibility within changing professional science contexts to develop autonomy as learners and evaluate own performance. Work autonomously, responsibly and safely to solve unstructured problems and actively apply knowledge of regulatory frameworks and scientific methodologies to make informed choices. |
| Teamwork | Work independently and collaboratively in diverse roles as members of multidisciplinary teams to contribute towards achieving team goals and thereby demonstrate interpersonal skills including the ability to brainstorm, negotiate, resolve conflicts, managing difficult and awkward conversations, provide constructive feedback and work in professional, social and cultural contexts. |
| Global citizenship | Adopt and value multidisciplinary knowledge and perspectives for evaluating, integrating and incorporating strategies and solutions in scoping, planning and managing alternative solutions from local to global forensic problems. |
Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2019
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Footnotes
*ARWU Rankings 2022
^Year on year, our undergraduate students are the most-satisfied students of all Victorian universities. Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2019 (GOS), Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT).
#Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences