Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Science in Forensic Biology and Toxicology

The Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Science in Forensic Biology and Toxicology at Murdoch University combines criminological theory with scientific investigation, giving students both an understanding of crime and the biological tools to solve and study it. At Murdoch’s Perth campus, students focus on areas such as criminal behaviour, forensic evidence collection, toxicology, and crime scene analysis. Through the criminology component, you’ll examine policing, criminal justice systems, and victimology, while the science aspect covers core laboratory skills in biology and chemistry as they apply to forensics.

Australian bachelor’s degrees like this usually involve a mix of compulsory and elective units taught over eight semesters across four years. Students complete units of study in both criminology and the forensic sciences, earning credit points for each. The program’s structure means you graduate with two degrees in the time it typically takes to finish one, thanks to cross-crediting of some relevant units. You can expect practical laboratory work, case-based learning, and may have the chance to undertake a professional placement or work-integrated learning unit in a forensic or criminal justice setting, check the university’s official page for current placement opportunities.

This course builds concrete skills in forensic analysis, scientific problem solving, research design, legal and ethical standards around evidence, and communicating findings. It suits people keen to work in law enforcement, forensic laboratories, and agencies focused on crime prevention or scientific investigation. If you’re interested in both science and criminal justice, this combination opens unique opportunities in Australia’s forensic science sector and beyond.

International students are welcomed and need to meet English language requirements, commonly IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall. While studying in Australia, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after graduation, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) may offer a path to work experience in your field. For the latest on course specifics and career directions, always check the university’s official site.

• Forensic scientist or laboratory analyst (government or private sector)
• Crime scene investigator
• Police or law enforcement officer
• Crime intelligence analyst
• Policy roles in criminal justice agencies
• Court and legal support positions
• Toxicology consultant
• Research assistant in criminology or forensic science

Australian employers include state and federal police, forensic labs, government justice departments, research institutions, and private investigation firms.