Forensic Investigations with foundation year

Discover crime scene analysis, forensic science and evidence law while gaining hands-on skills to uncover the truth, preparing you for an impactful career in investigative and law enforcement roles.

Please note, the foundation year of this Coventry University degree will be delivered from our CU Coventry campus. Course delivery from year 1 of the degree onwards will be from the Coventry University campus.

Our degree with foundation year could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your goals. The foundation year aims to prepare you for degree-level study and is a great way to build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed on your degree course.

Foundation year
The foundation year course offers an introduction to your chosen subject and helps you develop the necessary skills for degree-level study. It aims to provide a thorough understanding of legal principles and best practice. With a focus on European, national and local contexts, this course explores the development of legislation and case law with core academic skills.

Degree
This course combines academic insight with hands-on experience in a range of investigative practices. Tackle real-life case studies, work on scenarios that mirror actual investigations and gain industry insights through optional work placements and visits.

Industry-relevant curriculum: learn hands-on skills and techniques to dive into areas like crime scene investigation, digital crime detection, fraud analysis, forensics and interviewing.
Skills development: learn to interpret data, detect digital crimes and analyse fraud cases. Carry out mock suspect interviews and learn how to conduct surveillance operations in both urban and rural settings. Review a range of historical investigations, considering the appropriate actions that should be taken by a senior investigating officer.
Industry-focused learning: gain hands-on experience with real-life scenarios, case studies and industry perspectives. This can involve learning from professionals within law enforcement agencies, civilian investigative bodies or forensic science professionals such as crime scene investigators.

Why you should study this course

Foundation year
• Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study.



• Provides a grounding in key areas of criminal law and legal practice.



Degree
• Digital investigative tools: learn how to use digital tools to research fraud, and 3D and VR techniques to visualise virtual evidence and scenes of crime.



• Project-based learning: work on complex problems, create tangible solutions and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Assessments are designed to replicate the type of work and tasks carried out by those working in forensic investigations. You could find yourself producing interview plans, portfolios of evidence or surveillance operational plans, and giving evidence as an expert witness in a mock trial to showcase your expertise and real-world readiness.



• Simulation facilities: access a variety of simulation facilities that create realistic learning opportunities. Learn in our mock prison cells, crime scene houses, immersive labs and VR suites. Our well-equipped laboratories offer industry-standard facilities for forensic science techniques.



• Specialised expertise: our dedicated staff, with backgrounds in policing and forensic science, deliver in-depth knowledge of investigation specialisms, providing insights into forensic techniques and policing practices. Furthermore, they'll offer tailored guidance to help you shape your future career path. - -



• Community learning: shared modules with students from related courses will place you in learning groups, providing valuable opportunities for peer learning and developing your teamwork skills.



*For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website.

Coventry University, part of Coventry University Group, is a modern, globally connected university with a mission to create better futures. Founded in 1843 through innovation and enterprise, they continue to work closely with industry to equip their graduates with the real-world skills and creative thinking they need to make a difference.

Coventry is also a Top 5 Student City in England (QS Best Student Cities Index 2026), and they guarantee accommodation if you apply through Clearing. With campuses across Coventry, London, Scarborough, Dagenham, and Greenwich, you can choose to study where it suits you best.

They're rated overall Gold in TEF 2023, recognising the quality of their teaching and student experience. From academic and wellbeing support to their Phoenix+ programme of employability activities and dedicated Success Coaches, they’re with you every step of the way.