Overview

This course offers students with a background in science the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a forensic context. Students will explore how chemical and biological practices are used for forensic investigations. Graduates will be able to apply for employment as: Forensic chemistForensic biologistForensic toxicologistAnalytical chemistForensic technical assistant

Course offerings

Bedford Park

Courses / qualifications may not be offered in all locations and modes each year.  For more information on Mode of Delivery, visit Mode definitions

Student guidance

Study planner
Program of study overview
Program of study notes

Program of study
72 Units

Year 136 Units
Year 236 Units
Option
Stream
Minor18 Units

Admission requirements

Admission requirements
Pre-requisites
English Language requirements

Aims

Forensic scientists examine and analyse evidence from crime scenes and elsewhere to develop objective findings that can assist in both criminal and other types of investigation.  This course covers two aspects of forensic science, that students choose depending on their entry qualifications:

  • Forensic and Analytical Chemistry combines the practices of analytical chemistry and forensic investigation. Students will have the ability to explore and apply forensic techniques from a chemical as well as biological point of view.
  • Forensic Biology uses aspects of life sciences to examine biological material in a forensic context.

The degree contains a core set of analytical skills including study in forensic science principles, forensic criminalistics, evidence evaluation and crime scene management.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course you will be able to:
1.
Proficiently use cognitive, technical and creative skills to investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories in the systematic development of solutions to complex problems
2.
Apply skills and knowledge in a professionally responsible manner with a high level of autonomy and accountability
3.
Communicate effectively with other scientists and the wider global community using a wide range of methods
4.
Work professionally as an individual and in a team
5.
Demonstrate knowledge of the research principles and methods applicable to the selected specialisation and complete a research project

Student progression rules

Students must have achieved a GPA of 5 or above to be able to undertake the Coursework with research component stream. Students who do not receive the required GPA will instead take the Coursework stream.

Note that students who wish to use their masters qualification to satisfy entry into a Flinders University research higher degree are required to have completed at least an 18 unit postgraduate research component.