Where a Forensic Science Degree can take you

Iconic series like CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) have inspired thousands of students to enter the forensic science field for decades. However, let’s separate the facts from the Hollywood fiction, where can studying a degree in forensic science at Deakin actually take you?

Forensic science involves the use of scientific methods such as chemical analysis, DNA and toxicology, as well as the understanding of criminal law, to support criminal investigations. It offers a broad range of career options with many different fields and specialisation pathways. Students with a strong interest in science, a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and a logical mind may find this exciting field could be for them. Students studying a Bachelor of Forensic Science at Deakin, will start their journey by learning the fundamentals of biology, and chemistry, before delving into the world of criminal justice.

They will experience hands-on learning, including simulated crime scenes, pseudo courtrooms, and fieldwork experience. They will also develop practical transferable skills such as critical thinking, professional practice, and general laboratory practice and safety. Through their extensive practical training, students will 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.

The main forensic roles within Victoria are either at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) or the Victorian Police Forensic Services Department (VPFSD).

The VIFM provide forensic medical expertise, undertake medical investigations (such as autopsies and disaster victim identification), and provide expertise in situations such as mass fatality emergencies.
The VPFSD has a range of different departments such as botany, fingerprints, ballistics, crime scenes, clandestine laboratories, fire and explosion, and DNA management. Each state of course has their own version of VIFM and VPFSD, and there is also a forensics department within the Australian Federal Police Forensics.

The Bachelor of Forensic Science is professionally accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, making Deakin the first university in the Asia-Pacific region and the only university in Australia to offer professionally accredited forensic sciences courses.

Bachelor of Social Work at Berwick in 2026

Currently offered at our Gippsland Campus, the Bachelor of Social Work will also be offered at our Berwick Campus from 2026. For students passionate about improving the lives of children and families and helping to build strong communities, this course is a definite path to a rewarding career.

With 140 days of placement, students will be prepared to work across human and community services in government bodies, non-government organisations, community, and health services, and more. Find out more at Bachelor of Social Work.

Early Entry Program

With an Early Offer, you're guaranteed early entry to university (as long as you meet the prerequisites). You will also enjoy early access to campus libraries and study spaces, plus a free Exam Ready Pack. Australian and PR students are eligible to apply and must ensure they meet the prerequisite subjects for their preferred course, and attain the guaranteed ATAR required. For a list of participating courses and the guaranteed ATAR required, click here.

Applications opened on 1 April 2025 and will close 1 December 2025. Successful students will receive a conditional offer in September 2025.

Double Degrees at Monash

Watch this video and listen to Associate Professor Ben MacQueen, along with current Monash Arts students, explain how a double degree is structured and the advantages future students can gain from studying two degrees simultaneously.

Explore the variety of Science Double degree opportunities – industry placements, research and international experiences. Discover what makes each double degree unique!

Students are encouraged to browse Science Double Degrees and find out more about the eleven degrees which can be taken with science.

Apprenticeships and Job Opportunities