Bachelor of Forensic Science in Forensic Biology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Deakin University

Program Overview

Deakin’s Bachelor of Forensic Science (International) is designed for curious minds who want to turn a passion for science and justice into a career. You’ll learn to examine, interpret, and present forensic evidence through hands-on lab work, simulated crime scenes, and courtroom experiences, preparing you for real-world forensic challenges.

Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: You’ll build a strong scientific foundation with units like Cells and Genes, Chemistry in Our World, and Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis. Alongside this, Fundamentals of Forensic Science and Introducing Crime and Criminal Justice introduce you to crime scene science and the legal context, while career-focused units help you start developing professional skills.

Year 2: Your studies move into applied science with units such as Research Methods and Data Analysis and The Analytical Chemist’s Toolbox. Crime Scene Investigation gives you hands-on experience in evidence collection and laboratory analysis, while electives and major units allow you to tailor your studies to interests like forensic biology or chemistry.

Year 3: You’ll refine your professional expertise with Professional Practice and Forensic Analysis and Interpretation, applying your knowledge in realistic crime scenarios. Open electives and major units continue to let you specialise, preparing you to confidently present findings to investigators and in courtroom settings.

Focus Areas: Forensic biology, forensic chemistry, toxicology, DNA analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis, crime scene investigation.

Learning Outcomes: Graduate with practical forensic skills, legal understanding, and the confidence to analyse and present evidence professionally.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): This course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, giving your degree international recognition and strong professional credibility.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Deakin is highly regarded for graduate employment in Victoria, and its science programs are recognised globally for combining cutting-edge research with practical, career-ready training.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Deakin’s Bachelor of Forensic Science (International) is built around hands-on, career-ready experiences that immerse you in the real world of forensic investigation. From the moment you start, you’ll engage with simulated crime scenes, laboratory analyses, and courtroom presentations, honing the skills that forensic professionals rely on daily. The program combines practical training in Deakin’s purpose-built crime scene facilities with exposure to authentic forensic procedures, so you graduate ready to collect, interpret, and communicate evidence with confidence. Alongside technical expertise, you’ll also develop courtroom skills and an understanding of the legal framework behind criminal investigations:

Experiential learning opportunities include:

Simulated crime scene investigations in purpose-built training facilities
Laboratory analysis of DNA, illicit drugs, bloodstains, and physical evidence
Decomposition and entomology studies in authentic forensic contexts
Moot court presentations to practice courtroom communication
Crime scene evidence collection and interpretation exercises
Industry engagement through guest speakers and professional networks
Opportunities for overseas placements, study tours, or work-based training
Specialised practical units in forensic biology or forensic chemistry

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Deakin’s Bachelor of Forensic Science are equipped to step confidently into careers where science meets justice. You’ll leave with hands-on experience examining and interpreting evidence, ready to take roles such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, laboratory analyst, or forensic consultant. The course is designed to prepare you for real-world challenges, giving you both technical expertise and courtroom-ready skills.

Here’s what this means for you:

Employability support: Deakin’s Career Tools for Employability program and professional practice units provide tailored guidance, networking, and skill-building to boost your job readiness.
Industry connections: Extensive partnerships with local and national forensic organisations, plus guest speakers who are leaders in the field, immerse you in professional environments before you graduate.
Accreditation and global recognition: This is the only professionally accredited forensic science degree in Australia and the Asia-Pacific, certified by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, giving your qualification international credibility.
Graduation outcomes: Students gain real-world experience from crime scene simulations to courtroom presentations, making them highly attractive to employers in forensic labs, law enforcement, and consultancy.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue your studies through postgraduate programs in forensic science, criminology, or related fields at Deakin. Options include advanced research degrees or professional master’s programs, allowing you to specialise further and open doors to leadership or research-focused roles in forensic science.