Bachelor of Forensic Science / Master of Forensic Science

Studying the integrated Bachelor and Master of Forensic Science at Murdoch University not only fast tracks you to a postgraduate qualification but also equips you with the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience needed for a career in forensic science.  

As part of your bachelor's degree, you’ll choose to major in either Forensic Biology or Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology. The course also offers flexibility, with specified electives in topics such as Crime Science, Digital Photography, Microbiology and Haematology. Together, these subjects provide the strong foundation needed to pursue a career in forensics or relevant biological sciences. 

Building on this, the masters’ component expands your knowledge and provides specialist training in areas including crime scene investigation, fingerprinting, impression analysis, firearms and bloodstain pattern analysis. You’ll develop both theoretical expertise and hands-on experience through field trips and the processing of biological and physical evidence at reconstructed crime scenes. This combination ensures you graduate with the skills and confidence to excel in serious crime investigations.  

In your final year, you’ll undertake a research project that gives you the opportunity to make a real-world impact by addressing the operational needs of forensic institutions. 

3 reasons to study Bachelor of Forensic Science / Master of Forensic Science Murdoch:  

• You will complete this integrated bachelor and master course in just four years, graduating with the skills needed to excel in a forensic science career or to fast-track you into postgraduate research. 
• Learn from real forensic scientists how science is applied to solving crime.
• Gain hands-on experience through field trips, where you will apply forensic techniques to reconstructed crime scenes and build the skills you need to confidently transition from university to real-world. 

What you’ll learn: 

This course provides practical skills in forensic science along with foundational and theoretical knowledge. Depending on your chosen major, you could learn: 

• Methods of forensic chemistry, including the processes involved in developing scientific knowledge. 
• How cutting-edge DNA techniques are used to detect tiny traces of an offender.  
• Identify, analyse and generate solutions to forensic problems by applying scientific knowledge and skills with initiative and well-developed judgement. 
• Fingerprint and shoe impression evidence collection and analysis techniques.  
• How to deliver courtroom and expert witness testimony. 
• Bloodstain pattern analysis and crime scene reconstruction. 

Your future career: 

You will graduate with skills needed to work in varied sectors such as the police, national security and defence and investigative authorities. Careers could include: 

• Forensic Investigator  
• Crime Scene Investigator/Officer 
• Forensic Biologist  
• Forensic Chemist or Forensic toxicologist 
• Forensic or Intelligence Analyst  
• Forensic Researcher