Forensic Investigation, BSc

Thank you for choosing us!

We are sure that you have many questions, so we would like to reassure you that we have carefully designed your degree to ensure you receive important information at the times it will be most useful to you, and in bite-sized chunks. We are always available during office hours if you have any questions or queries. Please contact us on forensic.investigation@canterbury.ac.uk for any advice or guidance you need.

The first time we will meet formally will be the week commencing Monday 15th September 2025 when you will be invited to join a number of Welcome Activities to outline the key information you need to get started with your studies and, potentially, there will be a grand day out with colleagues who are studying your degree or one which is closely aligned to it. Details regarding the welcome week can be seen on the timetable link. At the end of the week, you will be a fully-fledged member of the forensic investigation cohort and then, in the week beginning Monday 22nd September 2025, the real work begins as you start your first modules.

You may feel a mix of excitement and apprehension, but do remember that everybody shares the same emotions, and the staff will offer advice and guidance to help smooth your transition to university.

There is no doubt that choosing to embark on a degree course is a big commitment in time, energy, and money. By working together, we can help you reach your full potential.

You are probably wondering what you will study, and how. Your first semester will contain a range of core modules aimed at providing you with foundational knowledge on key themes in the following modules:

• Introduction to Forensic Investigation
• Forensic Biology: Bodies of Evidence
• Forensic Chemistry Uncovered
• Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation
• Student Success Modules (which help support you in your academic career)

Large groups are taught in lectures, breaking into smaller teams where you and your new friends might discuss theory and practice. The sciences and CSI modules are taught in lecture theatres, forensic laboratories and a wide range of crime scene types (such as our bedsits, churchyard and elsewhere).

Do not forget to make sure you bring notepads, pens and your laptop (if you have one) to all of your sessions! Making your own notes will help you later when you wish to consolidate your learning!

Community 

University is more than books and lectures; it’s about exploring the world and where you fit in it, as well as your sports and interests which provide you with opportunities to develop skills and have fun outside of your studies. The Student Union (CCSU) has a huge range of clubs and societies – all of which have unique social calendars of their own and offer endless opportunities to make lifelong friends and discover new hobbies. And you can always create your own society and cultivate your own community!

CCSU will be hosting their Welcome Fayre on Wednesday 17th September 2025. Make sure you keep checking the CCSU website for further details and how to get involved.

We understand that you may be nervous about your first few weeks on campus but rest assured - you'll be joining a nurturing and supportive environment where diversity, equality and individuality are part of everything we do.

You can find out more about our welcoming community and making friends.

If you are an International Student joining us then please see our International Student Support pages for further information and guidance.

Given that you have worked very hard to get into university, we recommend that you use the summer to prepare yourself for your transition to higher education and take some time to relax and rejuvenate. However, if you are keen to get started, we recommend any academic forensic introductory textbook that suits your learning style.

Our first-year students particularly like:

•  Cottrell, S. (2019) The Study Skills Handbook. London: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC. 
• Jackson, A. and Jackson, J. (2016) Forensic Science. 4th Edn. Harlow: Pearson.
• Monckton-Smith, J., Adams, T., Hart, A. and Webb, J. (2013) Introducing Forensic and Criminal Investigation. London: Sage. 
• Tong, S., Bryant, R. and Horvath, M. (2009) Understanding Criminal Investigation. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell. 
• White, P. ed. (2016) Crime Scene to Court: The Essentials of Forensic Science. 4th Edn. Cambridge: Royal Society of Chemistry.

You could also dive into the subject by watching crime documentaries and researching high profile crimes on the internet. Why not explore how forensic investigation was used in this case? The White House Farm murders, committed by Jeremy Bamber, have divided opinions on investigation and forensic searches for years. The Murders at White House Farm is a series based on this.