Bachelor of Forensic Science in Forensic Biology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Murdoch University Australia

Program Overview

If you’re fascinated by the science behind solving real-life mysteries, Murdoch’s Bachelor of Forensic Science is your gateway into that world. Over three years, you’ll combine hands-on lab work with crime scene investigation, building the skills to think like a scientist, communicate with confidence, and make sense of evidence — whether your curiosity pulls you toward DNA analysis, chemical forensics, or investigating scenes firsthand.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Your first year is all about laying a solid scientific foundation while getting a taste of what forensic science is really like. You’ll explore units like Introduction to Forensic Science alongside core studies such as Succeeding in Science and Fundamentals of Chemistry, where you’ll learn to handle lab equipment and understand the chemical principles that underpin modern forensics. This is your year of curiosity — asking questions, testing ideas, and discovering whether biology, chemistry, or a mix of both excites you the most.

Year 2: In your second year, forensic science starts to come alive. You’ll dive deeper with units like Molecular Biology and Forensic Anatomy and Anthropology, learning how biological evidence is interpreted in real cases. Electives let you broaden your perspective, from biochemistry to law, digital analysis, or crime science, helping you piece together evidence and theory in meaningful ways.

Year 3: Your final year is where your learning becomes truly specialised and career-focused. You might tackle Forensic DNA Analysis and Forensic Toxicology, honing your skills in identifying genetic and chemical signatures with precision. Combined with advanced electives like Bodies of Evidence, this year sharpens your analytical thinking and prepares you to step confidently into professional roles or further study.

Focus Areas: Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry & Toxicology, Crime Scene Investigation

Learning Outcomes: Graduates leave ready to analyse scientific evidence, solve complex forensic problems, and communicate findings clearly in professional settings.

Professional Alignment: This degree is designed to meet industry expectations across forensic labs and investigative agencies, giving you practical experience and scientific literacy that employers value for technical and crime scene roles.

Reputation: Murdoch University enjoys a strong global profile — ranked around #423 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 — and has earned five-star ratings for teaching and employability, reflecting its commitment to preparing students for meaningful, real-world careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

When you step into this Bachelor of Forensic Science, you’re not just sitting through lectures — you’re diving straight into the science behind real investigations. From early on, you’ll be rolling up your sleeves and applying techniques used in actual forensic work, like analysing DNA, interpreting blood patterns, and tackling crime scene scenarios. The curriculum is designed so you’re constantly building practical, career-ready skills in real labs and simulated forensic settings, helping you start thinking and working like a professional scientist from day one. This isn’t about memorising facts from textbooks — it’s about doing meaningful science and seeing firsthand how it connects to real cases.

Here’s a taste of the hands-on experiences you’ll get:

Laboratory work that matters — you’ll use modern forensic methods and technologies to analyse biological and chemical evidence.
Simulated crime scenes — step into the shoes of an investigator, collecting and interpreting evidence in realistic, immersive scenarios.
Specialist forensic techniques — learn and practise DNA profiling, blood pattern analysis, and a variety of other methods used in real-world investigations.
Tailored majors — choose to focus on areas like Forensic Biology or Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology, giving you a deeper dive into the labs and analytical work that excites you most.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Murdoch’s Bachelor of Forensic Science are well-prepared to step into dynamic careers where science meets investigation. Many go on to work as forensic scientists, crime scene analysts, toxicologists, or laboratory technicians.

Here’s what this means for you:

Career support services: Murdoch’s dedicated Careers and Employability team offers guidance, industry networking events, and access to Work Integrated Learning placements to help you transition smoothly into the workforce.
Industry connections: The program partners with forensic agencies, laboratories, and law enforcement bodies, providing opportunities for real-world experience and professional networking.
Accreditation and professional recognition: Completion equips you with a degree respected in both public and private forensic sectors, giving long-term credibility in your career.
Graduate outcomes: Murdoch forensic science graduates are sought after for their practical skills and applied knowledge, giving you confidence in your employability from day one.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you could advance to postgraduate studies in areas such as forensic chemistry, forensic biology, or crime and justice studies. Murdoch offers pathways to Honours and research programs, giving you the chance to specialise further and strengthen your expertise for advanced roles in science, law enforcement, or academic research.