Course overview
Build degree-level knowledge through practical, career-focused study.
Explore forensic science, criminal investigation, evidence, witnesses, custody, death investigation and specialist investigative practice.
Course overview
This online degree follows the progress of a criminal investigation and shows how policing and forensic specialists work together. Practical, technology-supported study covers forensic trace and biological evidence, investigation procedures, death investigation, vulnerability, risk and specialist casework.
Study options
The course is delivered fully online with flexible access to teaching materials, digital learning activities and academic support. The published duration is three years or longer when studied part-time.
Professional development
Learning and assessment are designed to connect academic knowledge with current professional practice and transferable workplace skills.
Curriculum
Explore the complete Level 4, 5 and 6 module structure.
04Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
- Introduction to Forensic Investigation20 credits
- Introduction to Criminal Investigation20 credits
- Police Custody20 credits
- Witnesses: An Introduction20 credits
- Criminal Investigation: Procedures and Practices20 credits
- Analysis and Application of Forensics20 credits
05Level 5
Level 5 · four core modules plus two electives
140 credits
Level 5
Level 5 · four core modules plus two electives
- Forensic Trace Analysis20 credits
- Forensic Biology20 credits
- Civilian Employability20 credits
- Death Investigation and the Coroner20 credits
- Elective: Transnational Organised Crime20 credits
- Elective: Intelligence20 credits
- Elective: Community Policing20 credits
06Level 6
Level 6 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 6
Level 6 · 120 credits
- Forensic Anthropology20 credits
- Environmental Forensics20 credits
- Law Enforcement: Vulnerability and Risk20 credits
- Special Investigations Portfolio60 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Assessment uses practical investigation tasks, forensic analysis, reports, case-based work and a 60-credit Special Investigations Portfolio.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic entry
- Two subjects at GCE A Level or equivalent, plus passes at grade C or above in three GCSE subjects or equivalent.
- Access to HE, BTEC Extended Diploma and internationally equivalent Level 3 qualifications may also be considered.
English language
- IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, TOEFL iBT 90, or an accepted equivalent.
- Previous study in English may be accepted with suitable evidence of the medium of instruction.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Arden states that published fees relate to the intake on which the student enrols, rather than the application date.
Students who require a visa to study in the UK may be charged the fee associated with their home country.
Funding your study
This course is listed as eligible for Student Loans Company funding to help with tuition fees and other study expenses, subject to personal eligibility.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Understand the full investigative process and the collaboration between policing and forensics.
Apply forensic trace, biological and environmental evidence.
Complete a 60-credit Special Investigations Portfolio.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Career directions
- Forensic investigation
- Criminal investigation support
- Police staff roles
- Crime-scene support
- Intelligence
- Civilian law enforcement
- Further forensic study
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Can I study this course online?
Yes. Arden currently lists a flexible online route for this degree.
Is UK-campus study available?
No UK-campus route is currently listed for this course; it is delivered online.
When can I start?
The current application options list October 2026. Exact availability should be confirmed before application.
Who awards the degree?
The degree is awarded by Arden University.