Criminology and forensic science are fields often thought to go hand in hand, each complementing the other while maintaining unique differences. In this blog, Flinders University alumna Cara Woollacott shares her insights on pursuing a double degree in these disciplines, offering a comprehensive look at their distinct yet intertwined roles in the criminal justice system.
Criminology is the study of crime and criminal behaviour in society, with a focus on humanities and social science. Forensic science applies scientific principles to understand criminal activities which can then be used in a court of law. While vastly different, both weave in similar goals of criminal justice in our society, making a double degree in both criminology and forensic science highly valuable.
Criminology
Studying Criminology will allow you to develop an understanding of criminological theories and the role crime has played in society crime throughout history and in the present day.
Pursuing a criminology degree at Flinders University provides students the unique opportunity to work with industry partners, allow students to specialise in areas like cybercrime or the criminal justice system across minority groups, among others educational and career paths. Flinders University combines a foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for research, careers in government agencies, client work, and a variety of other career opportunities within a range of public and private organisations once you enter the job market.
Forensic Science
Studying forensic science means using scientific knowledge to analyse evidence and develop analytical skills which can contribute to criminal justice. Students can choose to follow the chemistry or biology stream where you will develop a foundation of knowledge in biological or chemical sciences which will then be applied to a forensic context.
This course exposes students to the process of a criminal investigation from the application of scientific understanding and forensic techniques throughout evidence analysis and evaluation, all the way through to seeing how evidence is presented in court from the perspective of a forensic expert.
Criminology or Forensic Science: Which Path is Right for You?
As a Flinders University alumnus who has completed a combined degree of criminology and forensic biology, I can speak for the similarities and differences between the two degrees. I developed many transferable skills across both degrees, benefitting my education, all while exploring my passion for understanding crime and the criminal justice system and the role of forensic science.
You can develop your understanding of crime in society through a degree in criminology or learn the techniques to analyse evidence through a degree in forensic science. Choosing to undertake criminology and forensic science in a combined degree will give you the opportunity to explore both avenues, something which I chose to do myself and found to be extremely valuable to my education.
