Criminal and Corporate Investigation BA (Hons)

Course Content

• Course Details

  It is essential that all investigations are carried out professionally, so our Criminal and Corporate Investigation course will ensure that you gain the essential legal knowledge and ability to conduct professional investigations whilst securing admissible evidence. The combination of practical role-play based activities and classroom teaching ensures that you are confident in your skills and knowledge, allowing you to be valuable asset to any organisation upon graduation with a criminal investigation degree.

  If you are interested in a career in professional investigation, or you are an investigator seeking an academic qualification to enhance your skills, then this corporate investigation course will give you the career progression that you seek. The criminal and corporate investigation course provides you with a comprehensive introduction to key theoretical and practical issues, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to confidently undertake professionally conducted investigations.

  Our Criminal and Corporate Investigation course has a wider focus than our BA Policing course, as the course modules are underpinned by national policing practices and initiatives, such as the nationally recognised, ‘Professionalising the Investigation Programme’. Throughout this criminal investigation degree, students look at a variety of investigation methods in great detail, such as interview technique, the law surrounding investigations and Cyber Crime. The real strength of the Criminal and Corporate Investigation course is that it has a strong practical element that allows you to demonstrate your skills in scenario-based investigations.

  List of modules

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

  • Stage 1

    In Year 1 you will examine the underpinnings of investigative technique, in particular the criminal justice system, evidence and procedures and the theory of investigating a scene of crime.

    • Law and the Criminal Justice System (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1001

      Status: Compulsory
      This module provides an insight into the workings of the UK criminal justice. It will benefit students seeking a career within the criminal justice system, enabling them to understand what constitutes a crime, why it is committed, and how the 'criminal' is treated up to, and including the trial/appeal process.
    • Legislation for Policing and Investigators (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1004

      Status: Compulsory
      This module examines legislation that impacts on the practices of the police and investigators such as the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. It also looks at the practical application of legislation, such as, the Theft Act 1968, Fraud Act 2006 and the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
    • Theoretical Concepts In Crime Scene Investigations (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1007

      Status: Compulsory
      This module is designed to introduce students to the policing and investigatory responses to critical incidents, major incidents, and other criminal activities. It will provide them with an understanding of the theoretical principles underpinning forensic investigations and evidence recovery.
    • Introduction to Academic Methods and Research (10 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1013

      Status: Compulsory
      This module complies with the National Police Curiculum as set by the College of Policing, in particular the module entitles `Research Methods & Skills?. It is designed to ensure that students develop the correct skills, attitudes and approaches to learning which will enable success at HE level.
    • Introduction to Evidence and Procedure (10 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1015

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces students to the rules, legislation, and codes of practice surrounding this subject area. Students will explore the rationale behind rules of evidence within the criminal justice system, providing them with an awareness of the balance that exists between the interests of the state and rights of individuals.
    • Introduction to Investigative Interviewing (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1016

      Status: Compulsory
      This module complies with level 1 of the `Professionalising the Investigation Process? (PIP), as defined by the College of Policing. Level 1 is the benchmark introductory standard for police officers and investigative professionals; providing a foundation of knowledge, and the relevant skills to competently interview victims, witnesses and suspects
    • Crime and Criminality (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS1018

      Status: Compulsory
      This module complies with the College of Policing?s National Police Curriculum, particularly the module Criminology and Crime Prevention. It enables students to consider how crime is constructed, perceived and responded to within contemporary society. Students will explore the inter-relationships between crime, conformity, social problems, and the context in which crime occurs.
  • Stage 2

    In Year 2 you will be allowed to choose areas of interest such as Covert Investigations and Serious and Organised Crime, as well as developing your skills in criminal investigation.

    • Crime and Criminal Investigation (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS2007

      Status: Compulsory
      This module complies with the College of Policing?s National Police Curriculum by extending the students? legal knowledge from the topics taught in year 1.It explores laws and procedures that are concerned with more serious criminal offences, murder, manslaughter, kidnap and rape, and examines the This processes involved in the investigation of such offences as well as defences in law.
    • Academic Development (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS2009

      Status: Compulsory
      This module extends the students? understanding of research methods enabling them to recognise similarities between an investigation and a piece of academic research, eg, an investigative strategy and a research methodology integrity and ethics, presentation of results and presentation of evidence, compliance with regulations and conventions such as writing styles.
    • Investigation and Investigative Interviewing 2 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS2020

      Status: Compulsory
      This module complies with the core requirements of P.I.P. level 2 (Professionalizing the Investigation Process) as defined by the College of Policing and Skills for Justice. `PIP 2? is the benchmark intermediate standard for police officers and investigative professionals. This module further extends the knowledge gained during stage 1.
    • The Management of Major Investigations (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS2021

      Status: Compulsory
      This module is designed to provide students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to be able to conduct investigations in a professional and objective manner. It builds upon the foundation that students have achieved at level 4, introducing them to more strategic considerations such as planning and managing an investigation, dealing with the media, policy logs, management of information/intelligence, and managing expectations. The module has been designed to comply with the requirements of levels 1and 2 of the 'Professionalising the Investigation Process' (PIP) as defined by the NPIA (National Police Improvement Agency) and Skills for Justice. PIP level 1 is the benchmark introductory standard for police officers and other investigative professionals, whilst level 2 is recognised as an intermediate level.
    • Covert Investigations (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS2023

      Status: Designate
      This module will introduce students to the legislation, and codes of practice that surround covert investigations. It examines the intrusive nature of covert investigation, particularly the controversial balance between the interests of the state and the privacy of the individual within the context of the English criminal justice system.
    • Investigating Serious and Organised Crime (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS2026

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to familiarise students with the nature and impact of criminal behaviour within the fields of drugs, human trafficking, and serious organised crime. Students will explore the subtle interrelationships that link these areas and the subsequent difficulties which arise in terms of their investigation and prosecution.
    • Contemporary Criminal Justice
      Module code: CJS2027

      Status: Designate
  • Stage 3

    In Year 3 you will be able to tackle a subject in greater depth, which may be of particular relevance to a current or future employer. You will also have the opportunity to delve deeper into areas such as internal investigations and the most up-to-date and relevant information surrounding cyber crime and identity theft.

    • The Victims Voice (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS3006

      Status: Designate
      This module examines the topic of victimology, who becomes a victim and why, what responsibility do victims themselves bear for acts committed against them? It explores the consequences of being labeled `victim?, their rights and support, and it asks, `what voice should victims have in designing of victims? services?
    • Advanced Evidence and Procedure (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS3009

      Status: Compulsory
      This module deals with the legal and procedural complexities surrounding the admissability of evidence in the English legal system. Students will undertake a group scenario based exercise requiring them to seize, prepare, and finally present their evidence in the courtroom setting of a mock trial.
    • Effective Resource Management and Logistics (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS3010

      Status: Designate
      This module provides an insight into how effective resource and logistics management can deliver investigative products and services appropriately, and on time. Complex investigations, require the effective management of resources, from the initial stages until they are satisfactorilly concluded and closed.
    • Employment Investigations (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS3011

      Status: Designate
      Employers who fail to conduct lawful and fair investigations may find themselves facing expensive claims for discrimination or wrongful/unfair dismissal. This module is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the law relating to individual employment rights and the relevant codes of practice that impact on internal investigations.
    • Cyber Crime (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS3012

      Status: Compulsory
      This module deals with the legal and procedural complexities surrounding the three main areas of cyber crime. Mainly: computer?related offences, computer integrity offences, and internet crimes related to the distribution of illegal content. It examines substantive criminal law in England, comparing it to other jurisdictions and states.
    • Miscarriages of Justice (20 Credits)
      Module code: CJS3018

      Status: Designate
      This module is mapped against the College of Policing?s `National Police Curiculum?, it looks at the process of `Investigation? from a different angle, seeking to stimulate debate by challenging investigative practices/procedures by introducing students to controversial issues surrounding their subject area. It examines the impact `miscarriages of justice? have had upon victims/witnesses/suspects raising questions about the integrity of the criminal justice system itself.
    • Independent Study (40 Credits)
      Module code: CJS4001

      Status: Compulsory
      The independent study provides an opportunity for students to study a topic of vocational relevance in greater depth, and to demonstrate their ability to work within specified timescales. They can choose a subject which they have found of interest during the previous two years of study, or which has direct relevance for their current or prospective employer.

  Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme

  Our BA Criminal and Corporate Investigation course is part of the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCS). The ELCS is an opportunity for members of the Armed Forces to further or expand on their education. The scheme offers support financially in a maximum of three separate financial years for higher level learning of a nationally recognised qualification at a Level three or above.

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• Entry Requirements

  A typical offer to study the criminal investigation degree at UON would be:

  • BCC at A Level or
  • DMM at BTEC or
  • Pass (C and above) at T Level.

  However, we welcome international applications and applications from those with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications.

  Mature students with relevant experience as practitioners will be considered without normal entry requirements.

  There are opportunities for current practitioners to gain accreditation for prior certificated or experiential learning; these will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

  For information on how to apply to study criminal and corporate investigation with us, please see our How to Apply page.

  Integrated Foundation Year Entry Requirements

  The standard entry requirements for the criminal and corporate investigation degree Integrated Foundation Year are:

  • DEE at A level or
  • MPP at BTEC or
  • Pass (D or E) at T Level.

  For more information on how to make an application please visit our How to Apply pages for Home and EU, and International students.

  English Language Requirements

  All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

  • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands for study at undergraduate level

  For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

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• Fees and Funding

  2024/25 Tuition Fees
  

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 2024/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK Full Time: £9,250
  • UK Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
  • UK Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
  • International Full Time: £15,200
  • International Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply

  For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

  2023/24 Tuition Fees
  

  Fees quoted for the criminal and corporate investigation degree relate to study in the Academic Year 2023/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK Full Time: £9,250
  • UK Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
  • UK Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
  • International Full Time: £14,750
  • International Integrated Foundation Year: £14,750 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply

  Additional costs

  There are no additional costs for the Criminal and Corporate Investigation course for students beginning their studies in September 2024. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.

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• Student Perks

  At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

  If you join our full-time BA Criminal and Corporate Investigation degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

  Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

  To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

  *UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

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• Integrated Foundation Year

  The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a criminal and corporate investigation degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements for Criminal and Corporate Investigation we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year Criminal and Corporate Investigation programme which includes a Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

  Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

  Please see our Integrated Foundation Year page for more details.

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• FAQs

  How will I be assessed on the criminal and corporate investigation degree?

  Assessments on the BA (Hons) Criminal and Corporate Investigation course are varied and consist of the following methods:

  presentations, essays, assignments, skills labs, practical exercises, reports, reflective accounts and video presentations, exams and multiple choice tests, Paper based assignments are submitted electronically and are returned within four weeks.

  Are there are any special features on this criminal and corporate investigation course?

  • There is a strong practical element throughout the course, which enables you to put theory into practice by undertaking scenario-based investigations
  • Close links with our Law and Criminology courses drawing from the experiences of solicitors and barristers, which in turn enhance the role play exercises
  • There is a wide range of modules you can select from in years two and three, allowing you to tailor your degree towards your own areas of interests or existing working environments

  Facilities include a moot room, a custody suite with video monitored interview rooms and a furnished flat to facilitate the scenario based exercises. The Criminal and Corporate Investigation teaching team has considerable experience in the management and investigation of serious and major crimes. We also draw from the experience of the teaching staff of both our Law and Criminology courses to enhance your experience of studying with us.

  What is the schedule for this criminal and corporate investigation course?

  Taught sessions are now under the framework of semesters. Most modules are taught within this framework and are concentrated either between October to January or February to May. Most modules will therefore have two sessions per week, usually  of two hours duration for each session, making four hours for each module.

  You would be studying either three of four modules per semester.

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