Major Undergraduate

Forensic Investigation

Major details for:
Murdoch code
MJ-FINV
Study mode
Part Time or Full Time
What is a Major?
A major is your primary area of focus within a degree. It determines the core subjects you'll study and the skills you'll master.

Major overview

In this Forensic Investigation major, designed to be taken as a secondary major to the Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry & Toxicology Majors, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of the scientific and legal aspects of crime scene analysis and evidence collection.

You’ll combine foundational science, including chemistry, biology, and statistical data analysis, with specialised forensic courses, including forensic anatomy, anthropology, and digital imaging. You’ll also explore criminology, policing, and the legal system to understand the broader context of forensic science within the criminal justice system.

With a balance of theory and practical experience, you’ll graduate ready to recognise, collect, preserve and analyse evidence, as well as work with law enforcement and contribute to criminal investigations.

3 Reasons to study Forensic Investigation at Murdoch  

  1. Learn from and interact with lecturers who have experience applying chemistry, biology and crime scene analysis techniques in a forensic context across a range of areas, including crime scene investigation as well as legal and policy related aspects of combating crime.
  2. Research-inspired and industry-led curriculum content, ensures that your level of knowledge is current and at the edge of innovative developments.
  3. Experience practical, hands-on, competency-based coursework, with access to advanced and industry-relevant analytical methods and instrumentation.

What you’ll learn            

  • Principles and concepts of forensic investigation.
  • Methods of forensic investigation, including the processes involved in developing scientific knowledge.
  • How to retrieve, analyse, synthesise and evaluate forensic information from a range of sources.
  • Experimental and technical skills by performing and analysing the outcomes of forensic laboratory and field investigations, specifically associated with crime scene investigations.
  • How to evaluate the use of forensic science in the criminal justice system.

Your future career 

  • Crime Scene Officer
  • Forensic Officer
  • Specialist Forensic Officer – Fingerprinting, Blood Pattern Analyst, and more.
  • Crime Analyst

Start dates

Starting period Location Face to Face Online Mixed mode
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
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.

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1300 687 3624

1300 687 3624

1300 687 3624

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