ENVISION

Forensic Science at Deakin

Cracking the Case: Where a Forensic Science Degree can take you conic 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.