Major overview
Forensic Biology applies the techniques of molecular biology and biochemistry to the fight against crime. Put your curiosity to work as you investigate crime from a scientific viewpoint.
Studying this major, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of modern molecular genetics, including practical exposure to the techniques associated with human DNA profiling. You will explore the breadth of forensic disciplines, including forensic anthropology pathology, and test your knowledge in the lab. Get hands-on experience in modern analytical techniques relevant to forensic biology for human and wildlife identification, with an emphasis on the gathering of forensic evidence and its analysis and presentation of results in court.
3 Reasons to study Forensic Biology at Murdoch
- Get hands-on experience as you apply DNA profiling and other forensic techniques from the lab to simulated crime scenes.
- Learn the latest real-world practices and policies, with course input and guest lectures by forensic experts from PathWest and ChemCentre.
- Prepare and deliver an expert testimony report for a mock murder trial in a moot court and experience cross-examination.
Your future career
With a major in Forensic Biology, you could pursue a range of roles in Australia or overseas. Careers could include:
- Crime Scene Officer
- Forensic Biologist
- Forensic Investigator
- Wildlife Forensics Officer
If your dream is to become a Scene of Crime Officer or Forensic Investigator, you can progress your studies to apply for our Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice) after completing this degree.
For further admission information about this course, please download our Information Pack.
Start dates
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online |
Mixed mode
In this attendance mode, teaching and learning activities are delivered both face-to-face and online, with scheduled or flexible learning times. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online |
Mixed mode
In this attendance mode, teaching and learning activities are delivered both face-to-face and online, with scheduled or flexible learning times. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
Major Structure
Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.
To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.
| Unit code | Unit name | Credit points |
|---|
How to Apply
Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.