University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Criminology and Forensic Studies BSc (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Criminology and Forensic Studies BSc (Hons) at the University of Portsmouth is designed for students eager to understand the intricate relationship between criminal behaviour, forensic science, and the justice system. You will gain practical forensic skills and a deep understanding of criminal justice processes, preparing you for a field where meticulous evidence analysis and insight into human behaviour are crucial. This undergraduate degree offers a comprehensive exploration of crime, criminal justice, and forensic investigation techniques, equipping you to tackle complex societal issues. You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, engaging with simulated crime scenes and laboratory practicals.

Throughout your studies, you will explore modules such as Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation, Criminal Justice, and Psychology for Criminologists, alongside opportunities to delve into areas like forensic linguistics and gang crime. In your final year, you will undertake a significant dissertation project, allowing you to focus on a specific area of interest within criminology or forensic studies. You will graduate with a strong foundation in criminological theory and forensic investigation techniques, prepared for diverse career paths within law enforcement, criminal justice, and forensic analysis.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) program in Criminology and Forensic Studies offers a comprehensive exploration of crime, criminal justice, and forensic investigation techniques. Across three years, students will delve into crime scene analysis, understand the criminal justice system, and develop essential criminological skills. The curriculum progresses to examine forensic evidence from crime scene to court, critically question criminological theories, and conduct research, culminating in a dissertation and modules on managing criminal investigations and the future of forensic science. Students can further specialize through a range of elective modules in areas such as forensic linguistics, gang crime, economic crime, and forensic psychology.

1 Year 1

Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation Compulsory
Criminal Justice Compulsory
Essential Skills for Criminologists Compulsory
Psychology for Criminologists Compulsory
Understanding Criminology Compulsory

2 Year 2

Forensic Evidence from Crime Scene to Court Compulsory
Questioning Criminology Compulsory
Researching Criminology Compulsory

3 Year 3

Dissertation (Criminology) Compulsory
Management of Criminal Investigations Compulsory
The Future of Forensic Investigations Compulsory

4 Optional modules

Forensic Linguistics: Language as Evidence Elective
Gang Crime Elective
Global Environmental Justice Elective
Hate Crime Elective
Introduction to Teaching Elective
Psychology and Security Elective

5 Optional modules

Crime and New Technologies: Theory and Practice Elective
Dangerous Offenders and Public Protection Elective
Economic Crime and Fraud Examination Elective
Forensic Taphonomy Elective
Green Crime and Environmental Justice Elective
Introduction to Teaching Elective
Policing: Law, Policy and Practice Elective
Political Extremism Elective
Professional Development: Recruiters and Candidates Elective
Black Criminology, Race and the Criminal Justice System Elective
Contemporary Terrorism and the Global Response Elective
Forensic Linguistics: Language and the Law Elective
Forensic Psychology: Investigation - 2024 Elective
Gender and Crime Elective
Information Security Management Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,586.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesBeverage Production & DistributionCorporate Finance & TreasuryEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesFinancial Technology (Fintech)Health Technology & Digital HealthHigher Education & UniversitiesInvestment Management & Asset ManagementRestaurant & Food Service

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

Legal & General

NHS

NHS Grampian

Nuffield Health

Tesco

University of Portsmouth

Why Study Criminology and Forensic Studies BSc (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Criminology and Forensic Studies BSc (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

Students can work up to 20 hours per week while studying. Outside study, the maximum working hours can go up to 40 hours per week.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Please confirm accreditation details directly with the institution.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Each test has specific score thresholds for listening, reading, speaking, and writing that you must achieve.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various career paths including Forensic Analyst, Crime Scene Investigator, and Criminal Justice Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program dives into the intricacies of criminal behavior and the forensic science behind crime investigation. Students will engage in practical sessions, covering crucial subjects like Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation and Criminal Justice.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Criminology and Forensic Studies BSc (Hons) program has an intake every September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot for this highly engaging course.
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