University of Staffordshire United Kingdom

Forensic Investigation with a Foundation year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Foundation year in Forensic Investigation at the University of Staffordshire is your gateway to understanding the intricate world of criminalistics and evidence analysis. This undergraduate qualification is ideal for those with a passion for uncovering truths and a strong interest in how crime scenes are processed, digital evidence is handled, and scientific techniques are applied within the justice system. You will develop a foundational understanding of key concepts such as crime scene processing, digital evidence, and the scientific principles underpinning forensic investigation, preparing you for advanced study and a future career in this vital field.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, including your essential foundation year. You will engage with practical learning through industry-standard facilities, including a crime scene house and specialist laboratories, allowing you to hone your investigative skills. Throughout your studies, you will explore modules ranging from case studies in criminal justice to advanced digital evidence processing and expert witness testimony. You will graduate with the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary to pursue careers with police forces, forensic providers, and intelligence agencies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This foundation year program provides a comprehensive introduction to forensic investigation, covering essential academic skills and the societal context of crime. Subsequent years delve into practical aspects such as crime scene processing, digital evidence, and various forensic scientific techniques. You will develop advanced investigative skills, analyze diverse forms of evidence, and gain expertise in areas like trace evidence and expert witnessing, culminating in a significant research project.

1 Year 0 compulsory modules

Academic Skills
Crime In Context
Introduction To Critical Thinking And Argument
Sociology Of Crime
Theories Of Criminality And An Introduction From Crime Scene To Courtroom

2 Year 1 compulsory modules

Case Studies In Criminal Justice
Crime Scene Processing
Digital Evidence Processing
Introduction To Forensic Scientific Techniques
Policing Theory

3 Year 2 compulsory modules

Advanced Digital Evidence Processing
Bodies Of Evidence
Investigative Skills
Marks And Traces
Research Skills In Forensics

4 Year 3 compulsory modules

Collection And Analysis Of Scene Evidence
Expert Witness And The Legal System
Forensic Research Project
Modern Forensics

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

17% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,081.00 USD 23,093.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,093.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,093.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,093.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 88,362.00 USD 92,375.00

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

Living Costs

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 Stoke-on-Trent campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesCorporate & Commercial LawCorrections & RehabilitationCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsDefense & Military SecurityEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingInternational & Human Rights LawReal Estate & Property Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AstraZeneca

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

NHS

NHS England

Why Study Forensic Investigation with a Foundation year at University of Staffordshire

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Staffordshire 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 Forensic Investigation with a Foundation year at University of Staffordshire

Can I work while studying?

Degree course students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English language requirements: TOEFL overall score of 72, IELTS overall score of 6.0, or PTE overall score of 59. Ensure you achieve the required scores in all sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Forensic Scientist, Crime Scene Investigator, Evidence Technician, and Forensic Analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

Our Forensic Investigation degrees are ideal for those who have a strong interest in criminalistics, forensics, crime scene science and evidence analysis. We will equip you for a career working with the police, a forensic provider or any other investigative or intelligence agency, such as the Home Office, HM Customs and Excise. Our industry standard facilities include a crime scene house, specialist laboratories and equipment to give you practical skills and knowledge for when you

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intakes for the Forensic Investigation with Foundation Year program are available in January and September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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