Overview
Forensic investigation is an exciting and challenging area of study, which involves not only an understanding of scientific methods of forensic analysis, but also investigative techniques, including the interpretation and presentation of analytical evidence to explain or solve criminal or civil cases.
Officially recognised by Skills for Justice for the quality of our teaching, our degree is concerned primarily with the identification, collation and reporting of evidence to a forensic hearing. Our comprehensive curriculum covers investigative skills, the law, interviewing techniques, forensic science, investigation management, the legal process of enquiry, crime scene analysis, fraud investigation, digital forensics, surveillance and the evaluation of evidence.
There is a substantial element of laboratory work and unlike other courses which just cover a selection of investigatory techniques our course touches upon a huge range of forensic science and investigative technique. We’ll examine: blood splatter; fingerprints; DNA; semen analysis; footwear; trace; ballistics; explosive residues; hairs and fibres; interviewing victims, suspects and witnesses; surveillance techniques; how to recover passwords and deleted files in digital forensics; mobile phone forensics; fraud investigation; and how to use social media in investigations.
We run a range of interesting fieldtrips, which have previously included visits to the mortuary at the Coventry University Hospital and Specialist Group International, a world-renowned company which provides 24/7 specialist response to police, fire and other government agencies and boasts an arsenal of cutting-edge equipment (field trips are subject to availability, application, and additional costs).
91% of students agreed staff are good at explaining things - National Student Survey 2019.
See the facilities available in our brand new Alison Gingell Building.
Why Coventry University?
An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.
COVID-19
The University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via emerging online technologies and methods across all courses. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2020/2021 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.
Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to Covid-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.
Global ready
An international outlook, with global opportunitiesEmployability
Career-ready graduates, with the skills to succeedTeaching Excellence
Taught by lecturers who are experts in their fieldCourse essentials
A degree which offers you more, at no extra costAccreditation and Professional Recognition
This course is accredited and recognised by the following bodies:
Skills for Justice
The course has achieved the Quality Mark endorsement and, as such, is officially recognised by Skills for Justice, the sector skills council and standards setting body for the justice sector, as providing education of outstanding quality and relevance. Due to COVID-19 Skills for Justice are not renewing accreditation and recognition until later in 2020 (at the earliest). Coventry University intends to apply for renewal of accreditation at the earliest possible opportunity. Should there be any changes to the accreditation of this course, we will seek to inform applicants and students as soon as possible.
Our Facilities
Ambulance
Our facilities include a mock ambulance, which students can use as part of their studies, to help simulate the patient journey. This gives students the opportunity to learn in situations that mirror real life scenarios.
Strength and Conditioning Suite
Our multi-purpose suite is equipped with multiple Olympic lifting platforms, a 20m gait analysis track, an anti-gravity treadmill and even a 3D motion capture system!
SuperLab
The Alison Gingell building contains a state-of-the-art SuperLab, capable of holding up to 270 people at once. The lab's facilities include equipment for microscopy, DNA analysis and forensic testing.
What our students say
I have always had a natural curiosity for finding answers in life, but wasn’t sure what degree I wanted to study until I discovered Forensic Investigations at Coventry University. The course covers everything that I am interested in with a good balance between the science and the sociological elements. The course is well constructed and thought-provoking and I most enjoy being able to listen to my peers and reciprocate knowledge that I’ve found independently. I also enjoy being able to visually see what I’ve been reading about in text books and the tutors really help to bring theory to life."
Course information
This multidisciplinary degree encourages you to apply essential elements of psychology, criminology, law, forensic science and computing to conduct and report investigative analysis, using photography, video and other evidence-based techniques.
Although we aim to cover the essentials of forensic science, our degree is not intended to be a forensic science course. If you are interested in a forensic science degree consider Analytical Chemistry and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) or Biological and Forensic Science BSc (Hons) Instead, we seek to broaden your perspective by providing a broad understanding of both forensic science and forensic investigation. You’ll not only study the ‘hard science’, namely the scientific side of scene analysis for evidence collection, but also the use of interview techniques, witness testimony and covert surveillance, for example, in the collection of evidence.
Recognising the continual advancements in scientific analysis, we will monitor and discuss contemporary issues such as those concerning victims of serious crime, the impact of the media upon major investigations and the investigation of major disasters. We also offer a range of field trips*, which have previously included the National Justice Museum in Nottingham, where students are given a historical perspective of the development of justice and take part in researching archived case papers and documents, and a team building and problem solving day at an activity centre, as part of the Professional Development module, where you can take part in a range of activities, including problem solving exercises and some physical activities.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Course specification
Download PDF (209kb)
Modules
We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.
In more detail...
This course brings together a range of important disciplines within investigative processes – digital forensics, social media, fraud, photography and sociology in criminal and civil investigations.
Our teaching team currently has a wide range of professional experience and includes a qualified solicitor, trained barrister and senior investigating police officers, as well as current expertise in surveillance and investigative interviewing, pathology, fraud and financial investigations. They currently have links with a range of investigative agencies, including local police forces, support organisations and specialist investigators, some of whom have previously offered placements to students.
We focus on providing a practical experience, using real-life case studies and scenarios, as well as traditional academic approaches. We aim to host regular guest lectures led by investigative professionals who provide specialist and up-to-date knowledge and understanding of their particular fields (subject to availability). For example, recent talks have looked at offender profiling, geographic profiling, pathology, digital forensics, computer reconstructions, rape and sexual assault.
- 95% satisfaction with academic support in the National Students Survey (NSS) 2019.
- Regular expert guest lecturers which have recently included the Chief Executive of the West Midlands Police Crime Commissioners Office, the lead pathologist for this area and a national expert in Behavioural Investigative Advice. (subject to availability).
- A team of multidisciplinary experts from various subjects, currently including criminologists, lawyers, chemists, forensic scientists, investigators and psychologists who bring their research and practical experiences in to their teaching.
- Two former senior investigating officers, one a member of the National Working Group on Disclosure matters, who have investigated numerous homicides, organised and gang related criminality, as well as gun-related serious crimes.
Previous field trips have included the European Court of Human Rights, NATO Strategic Headquarters of Allied Powers Europe and the International Criminal Court.*
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Our main study themes are:
- Criminal and Civil Law: An introduction to the legal system in England and Wales, and some legislation that is important to investigators.
- Crime Scene Analysis: This area of study enables students to learn in detail about crime scene protocols as well as techniques used to analyse evidence. You study forensic examination, based on physical, chemical and biological techniques used in the examination and analysis of trace evidence.
- Forensic Science: An introduction to the specialist areas of Forensic Science including forensic biology, forensic chemistry and anthropology.
- Investigative Practice: Introduces students to some fundamental concepts, issues and understandings in investigation. The focus is on providing an appreciation of the basic skills and knowledge of an investigator as well as the approaches and actions that should be made in order to facilitate an effective investigation.
- Specialist Inquiry: You are introduced to some current aspects of investigation and issues within the investigative field. Specific subjects include profiling, investigation of potential terrorist threats, the media and familial DNA.
The emphasis of our course is very much on providing a practical, hands-on experience through guest lectures, work placements, industry visits, skills development and the study of real-life case studies (all subject to availability and potential additional costs for industry visits).
We incorporate a wide range of teaching methods, for example, you may find yourself flying a drone surveillance exercise or interviewing police officers.
Recognising the continual advancements in scientific analysis, we will monitor and discuss contemporary issues such as those concerning victims of serious crime, the impact of the media upon major investigations and the investigation of major disasters. We also offer a range of field trips, which have included the National Justice Museum in Nottingham, where students are given a historical perspective of the development of justice and take part in researching archived case papers and documents, and a team building and problem solving day at an activity centre, as part of the Professional Development module, where you can take part in a range of activities, including problem solving exercises and some physical activities (both field trips and team building courses are subject to availability and additional costs may apply).
Throughout the course you are strongly encouraged to gain practical work experience. You have the opportunity to take a sandwich year on a professional placement*. Others have opted for a shorter placement. Long and short-term placements have resulted in us helping organise a range of internships in the UK and abroad. Students from our course are also able to get involved in the West Midlands Police Streetwatch scheme, which enables them to work alongside officers in promoting student safety and crime prevention. Participation in this scheme is voluntary and is subject to security checks.
Teaching methods include: lectures, group work, seminars, tutorials, laboratory skills, flipped classroom, PC labs, mock courtrooms, interviewing and simulation exercises.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will could vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include formal examinations, coursework, test and essays, practical or project work, group work and presentations and posters.
The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards the achieving the intended learning outcomes.
On successful completion, you should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: the central issues in both policing and the use of forensic evidence in criminal investigations; the range of scientific and sociological perspectives adopted in the investigation process; the common sources of forensic evidence and the main forms of collection and analysis; the principles of “the life cycle of an investigation” and the role of a Senior Investigating Officer
- Analyse, evaluate and interpret information from a variety of sources and demonstrate an analytical approach to problem-solving.
- Think reflectively and strategically about evidence, evidence preparation and presentation.
- Produce a well-structured and logical argument.
- Carry out correct procedures for the collection of evidence, observing prevailing regulations.
- Plan and conduct effective interviews using a skilled, accurate and precise approach.
- Present evidence in written and oral forms.
- Design and implement appropriate techniques and procedures to solve investigative problems.
- Demonstrate numerical and data manipulation skills at an appropriate level.
- Operate independently to solve problems.
- Be an effective part of a team providing appropriate solutions to technical problems.
- Be able to interpret data derived from forensic evidence.
- Communicate in a confident, professional manner, both verbally and in writing.
In a typical teaching week, you will have around 12-15 ‘contact’ hours of teaching.
This generally breaks down into tutorials or individual project supervision later on in the course, workshops, practical sessions, seminars and/or lectures. Some teaching may take place on-line.
A number of the modules contain a comparative focus on international investigative and procedural matters. These include evidence gathering, forensic computing and policing studies.
You have opportunities to participate in Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects with other educational institutions. In the past we have participated in projects with the University of Malta, University of Windsor, Ontario, Canada and the University of Seville. We also have student exchange agreements with these universities enabling you to study there for one semester or even a whole year.*
Each year, we organise a subsidised trip to Europe, which has previously included visits to the: European Court of Human Rights, NATO Strategic Headquarters of Allied Powers Europe and the International Criminal Court. This trip is subject to availability, meeting visa requirements and additional costs.
*Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Global ready
Did you know we help more students travel internationally than any other UK university according to data from the experts in higher education data and analysis, HESA?
In 2018/19, we were able to provide a total of 5,469 experiences abroad that lasted at least five days.
Much of this travel is made possible through our Global Leaders Programme, which enables students to prepare for the challenges of the global employment market, as well as strengthening and developing their broader personal and professional skills.
Explore our international experiences1st for
international experiences
Sending more students overseas than any other UK uni 2016/17
5,469
Student experiences
The number of student trips abroad for at least 5 days in 2018/19
12,000
and counting
The number of students we’ve helped travel internationally since 2016
12
global programmes
As well as trips, we offer other opportunities like language courses
What our students say
I have always had a natural curiosity for finding answers in life, but wasn’t sure what degree I wanted to study until I discovered Forensic Investigations at Coventry University. The course covers everything that I am interested in with a good balance between the science and the sociological elements.
The course is well constructed and thought-provoking and I most enjoy being able to listen to my peers and reciprocate knowledge that I’ve found independently. I also enjoy being able to visually see what I’ve been reading about in text books and the tutors really help to bring theory to life."
Entry Requirements
What our students say
I have always had a natural curiosity for finding answers in life, but wasn’t sure what degree I wanted to study until I discovered Forensic Investigations at Coventry University. The course covers everything that I am interested in with a good balance between the science and the sociological elements.
The course is well constructed and thought-provoking and I most enjoy being able to listen to my peers and reciprocate knowledge that I’ve found independently. I also enjoy being able to visually see what I’ve been reading about in text books and the tutors really help to bring theory to life."
Tuition Fees
We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis and offer a wide range of scholarships to support students with their studies. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.
For more information, please visit our Finance pages.
Course essentials at no extra cost
We're committed to communicating study costs clearly to make sure you're not faced with having to make any unexpected payments.
This is why our ‘Flying Start’ package provides you with a few course essentials. Your full-time fee for an undergraduate degree will cover the following:
UK field trips
Any mandatory site visits and trips within the United Kingdom.Key material
This can include core textbooks, software and equipment.Laser prints
1,000 A4 sides of black and white laser printing credits per year.Optional year
Pay no tuition fees for optional work placements or study abroad trips.As well as covering UK field trips, key materials and laser print, the fees for this course also include: Laboratory coat and safety spectacles provided for use ; Scene of Crime outfit and basic fingerprint kit; Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate (formally CRB Disclosure) for those undertaking placements with children.
The following are additional costs not included in the fees: Optional camera; Optional Accredited Computer Interrogation Course; Any optional overseas field trips or visits.
EU student fees
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year remain eligible for the same fees as home students and the same financial support. Financial support comes from Student Finance England, and covers undergraduate and postgraduate study for the duration of their course, providing they meet the residency requirement.
For tuition fee loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland for the three years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that three year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
For maintenance loans
EU nationals starting in the 2020/21 academic year must have resided in the UK and Islands for the five years prior to the start of their course. The purpose of that five year residency should not have been mainly for the purpose of receiving full time education.
Reduced course fees for EU students
The UK Government has confirmed that EU students who are starting their course in September 2021 and onwards will be classified as an international student. To support our EU community who are affected by this change, Coventry University are providing an EU Member State Transition Bursary.
Students ordinarily domiciled in an EU Member State who prior to the 2021/22 academic intake qualified for UK fees (home fee status), are eligible for the EU Member State Transition Bursary. This will bring fee levels for those students across the Group into line with those of UK students for courses starting in the 2021/22 academic year.
Review more details on our EU Member State Transition Award/Bursary page.
What our students say
I have always had a natural curiosity for finding answers in life, but wasn’t sure what degree I wanted to study until I discovered Forensic Investigations at Coventry University. The course covers everything that I am interested in with a good balance between the science and the sociological elements.
The course is well constructed and thought-provoking and I most enjoy being able to listen to my peers and reciprocate knowledge that I’ve found independently. I also enjoy being able to visually see what I’ve been reading about in text books and the tutors really help to bring theory to life."
Career prospects
Graduate Immigration Route visa
Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.
Successful completion of this course will support you to develop a wide range of skills in the collection, analysis and interpretation of physical evidence, all of which are useful for a diverse range of careers in areas such as the intelligence services, insurance companies, banking, the prison service, accountancy firms, trading standards, fraud investigation organisations, social care, environmental or financial services and teaching.
Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and aim to give you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The University’s Careers and Employability team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.
Where our graduates work
Recent graduates have taken up posts in the financial sector, insurance services, credit card providers, digital forensic companies, accountancy firms, the Border Agency, HM Revenue and Customs and local government, as well as more traditional law enforcement positions, such as police constables, civilian police investigators, protection services, crime scene examiners and working for the Border Control Agency.
Some have chosen to continue their studies with postgraduate qualifications, such as the MSc in Fraud Management here at Coventry.
What our students say
I have always had a natural curiosity for finding answers in life, but wasn’t sure what degree I wanted to study until I discovered Forensic Investigations at Coventry University. The course covers everything that I am interested in with a good balance between the science and the sociological elements.
The course is well constructed and thought-provoking and I most enjoy being able to listen to my peers and reciprocate knowledge that I’ve found independently. I also enjoy being able to visually see what I’ve been reading about in text books and the tutors really help to bring theory to life."
Disclaimer
By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2020/21 Contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.
The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.
For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.
Admission to this course is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and a successful interview. Find out about the application process.
