Are you an international student looking to study forensic science in Australia? The Bachelor of Forensic Science (CRICOS course code 117501G) is a three-year Bachelor Degree delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) at its Perth campus in Western Australia. This course equips students with the scientific knowledge and practical skills to work in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and legal settings. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00125J), Murdoch University is authorised to enrol international students and must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer protection. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses in Australia, this is one of many options available to international students. In this page, we provide a detailed overview of the Bachelor of Forensic Science, including fees, entry requirements, study mode, and student visa information to help you make an informed decision.
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Bachelor of Forensic Science (CRICOS course code 117501G) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register). It falls under the field of education Natural and Physical Sciences (code 01) with a specialisation in Forensic Science (019903). The course is taught entirely in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component. The indicative tuition fee is A$117,720, with non-tuition fees of A$365, giving an estimated total cost of A$118,085. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included in this estimate. Always check the Murdoch University website for the most current fees. Course data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
This Bachelor Degree programme in Forensic Science provides a comprehensive education in the scientific principles and techniques used in forensic investigations. Students typically learn about crime scene analysis, evidence collection and preservation, laboratory analysis of trace evidence, DNA profiling, toxicology, and forensic chemistry. The curriculum also covers relevant legal and ethical frameworks, preparing graduates for roles as forensic scientists, crime scene examiners, or specialists in police and government agencies. At this level, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for professional practice. Note that this description is a general guide based on the field of education and level; for specific syllabus details, contact Murdoch University directly.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Forensic Science has a duration of 3 years, which equates to 156 weeks of full-time study. The course is delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual award, and does not include a foundation studies program. International students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Murdoch University may offer part-time options in limited circumstances, but students should confirm with the provider.
The CRICOS register lists the following indicative fees for the Bachelor of Forensic Science: tuition fee of A$117,720, non-tuition fee of A$365, and an estimated total cost of A$118,085. These fees are set by Murdoch University and are subject to change. International students should also budget for additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–$1,000 per year for single cover; living expenses – the Department of Home Affairs recommends at least A$21,041 per year (as of 2024); and the student visa application charge (currently A$710). For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, visit the Murdoch University website. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), with no referral fees.
For admission to the Bachelor of Forensic Science, international students typically need to meet academic and English language requirements. The English language proficiency guide is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (equivalent to other accepted tests such as TOEFL or PTE). Applicants should have completed a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12, with strong results in science subjects (e.g., chemistry, biology). Murdoch University may offer pathway programs such as foundation studies if you do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check the specific entry requirements on the provider's website or contact their admissions team. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration or admission advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for visa-related matters.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students may undertake voluntary practical training or work placements if arranged independently, subject to visa conditions. The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Remember that work is not part of the course curriculum and should not compromise your studies.
The Bachelor of Forensic Science is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, which is located approximately 15 kilometres south of Perth city centre, Western Australia. Perth is home to several CRICOS-registered providers, including the University of Western Australia and Curtin University, giving international students a vibrant study environment. The city has a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with indicative weekly rents ranging from A$200–$400 for shared accommodation and A$120–$200 for groceries and transport. The Murdoch campus is accessible via public transport, including train and bus services. This location-specific context is provided as a guide; actual costs vary.
International students studying the Bachelor of Forensic Science at Murdoch University must hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, evidence of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC for the duration of study, and compliance with visa conditions such as maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). OSHC is mandatory and must be arranged before visa grant. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring you receive quality education and consumer rights.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Forensic Science at Murdoch University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to find courses that match your level, field, and preferred location. Confirm that Murdoch University (CRICOS 00125J) still offers this course.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Prepare your documents, including academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and a personal statement. Submit your application via Murdoch University's online portal or through an authorised education agent. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Once Murdoch University issues your CoE, you can apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide your CoE, evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa assistance.
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, sunny climate, and a growing economy. The city has over a dozen CRICOS-registered higher education providers, including public universities and private colleges, catering to international students. Cost of living in Perth is moderate: rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages A$450 per week, while a shared house in the suburbs can be as low as A$200 per week. Groceries and transport cost approximately A$150 per week. With excellent beaches, parks, and cultural attractions, Perth is an appealing destination. However, consider your personal preferences for urban vs. campus life and proximity to forensic science job opportunities. This section is a general guide; research further to decide if Perth matches your needs.
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Bachelor of Forensic Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.