Forensic Investigation Bournemouth University (BU)

Why study BSc (Hons) Forensic Investigation at BU?

• Forensic investigation is a wide-ranging and compelling subject, drawing from scientific methods and practical training within criminal investigation, taught by professional practitioners and guest speakers who are experts in their fields
• Covering biological and analytical science, the degree provides an understanding and knowledge of key concepts in relevant law, professional skills, crime scenes and forensic sciences
• Carried out in a variety of stimulating environments, including science labs, IT labs, field trips, and dedicated crime scene teaching labs in used for crime scene reconstruction
• Year one is shared with students taking BSc (Hons) Forensic Science, with the option to switch degrees at the end of the year
• Gain valuable work experience on your placement if you choose to take one and springboard into a career as a forensic investigator post-graduation
• Within fifteen months of finishing the course, 88% of graduates are in employment or further education. 

Designed specifically for those interested in the investigative side of forensics, the course deals with the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic investigation of crime scenes and disaster investigations.

Entry requirements

For September 2026 entry: The entry requirements for this course are 104–120 UCAS tariff points (A-level grades BCC–BBB) including a minimum of 2 A-levels or equivalent qualifications. We also accept a wide range of vocational qualifications including BTEC Extended Diploma (grade DMM) and T Levels (Merit).

Please see below some examples of the qualifications for entry onto Year 1 for September 2026 entry:

• China: Chinese Senior High School Graduation Certificate (Huikao) average 80%, or Gaokao 61-71%. Grade depends on the course

• France: Baccalaureate with 11.5–12.5 overall or 10.5-11.5 (international option)

• Hong Kong: HKDSE Diploma (4,4,3 to 4,4,4 from three subjects). Grade depends on the course
• India: All India Senior School Certificate Examination (Standard XII) 60-70%
• Spain: Titulo de Bachillerato with 6 - 7. Grade depends on the course
• Turkey: Devlet Lise Diplomasi/Lise Bitirme Diplomasi 3.5/5.0 or 70%

We offer a number of preparatory programmes through Bournemouth University International College. These courses offer you progression from High School in your home country to a Bachelor’s degree at BU.

For September 2026 entry: If English is not your first language, you will need IELTS (Academic) 6.0 with minimum 5.5 in each of the 4 components, or equivalent.

Foundation Year for September 2026 entry: 48-72 UCAS tariff points.