Crime and Investigation

Crime and investigation as a degree-level subject examines the social, psychological, forensic, and institutional dimensions of crime, drawing on sociology, criminology, psychology, and forensic science to build a rigorous and multidisciplinary understanding of how crime occurs, how it is investigated, and how the criminal justice system responds. It is a field that combines theoretical understanding of why crime happens and how it is shaped by social structures with practical knowledge of the methods and techniques used to detect, investigate, and prosecute offences.

At Teesside University, this four-year full-time Crime and Investigation degree with a foundation year introduces you to the historical and contemporary development of social science disciplines, exploring theoretical frameworks and their practical application in society. The foundation year builds the academic skills, ethical awareness, and research foundations needed to engage with the main degree, providing a supported entry for students from a range of backgrounds. You will develop understanding of both the similarities and differences between the disciplines that contribute to crime and investigation studies, and how interdisciplinary research and professional practice are fostered through collaboration.

Graduates from crime and investigation programmes pursue careers across the criminal justice system and related fields. The police service, the prison and probation service, forensic investigation services, the National Crime Agency, border force, intelligence roles, social work, community safety, and victim support organisations are all common destinations. The combination of social science understanding and investigative knowledge is also valued in fraud, compliance, and risk roles in the private sector.

Postgraduate study in criminology, forensic science, criminal justice, or social research methods is a natural continuation for those who wish to develop specialist expertise.