Master of Forensic Behavioural Science
Note: This course is available to local students and off-shore international students who are studying in a country other than Australia; this course is not available to on-shore international students on a student visa.
Duration
3 years part-time
Intakes
Online (Semester 1, Semester 2) - View application and start dates
Study modes
- Online,
- Part-time
2024 Start Dates
2023 Start Dates
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
Note: This course is available to local students and off-shore international students who are studying in a country other than Australia; this course is not available to on-shore international students on a student visa.
Course structure
- Six core units (75 credit points)
- Coursework specialisation: six elective units (75 credit points) - two of these units must be Level 3 units (25 credit points) or
- Research specialisation: two additional core research units (25 credit points) and four elective units (50 credit points) - two elective units must be Level 3 units (25 credit points)
Maximum Academic Credit
The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Master of Forensic Behavioural Science is 50 credit points (normally four units)
Units of study
Complete the following six units (75 credit points):
Elective units
Research specialisation: Complete two of the following units (25 credit points)
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Aims and objectives
- critique the theories and principles that are influential in the field of forensic behavioural science
- demonstrate capacity to translate knowledge of research into practical applications within forensic settings
- apply specialised knowledge of key research methodologies and evidence-based practice, including conducting evidence appraisal and evaluating research design
- demonstrate the capacity for independent thought, abstraction, critical evaluation and synthesis of existing knowledge and theories across the field of forensic behavioural science
- independently resolve complex issues and formulate judgements based on relevant evidence/ theories
- compose original solutions relevant to their practice, and both communicate and justify these ideas to specialist and non- specialist audiences
- apply specialist knowledge and skills to respond effectively to a broad range of complex and challenging forensic issues in an autonomous, responsible and ethical manner.

Graduate skills
- capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
- entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
- effective and ethical in work and community situations
- adaptable to change
- aware of local and international environments in which they are contributing (e.g. sociocultural, economic, natural).
Pathways and scholarships
- Credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.
HECS-HELP is a loan and discount scheme available to eligible students enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. A HECS-HELP loan can cover all or part of the student contribution amount.
Entry requirements
Entry into the Master of Forensic Behavioural Science (MA-FBS) requires initial enrolment in the Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma of Forensic Behavioural Science (GC-FBS or GD-FBS). If students are able to meet specific criteria (completion of the three Core units, FBS80001, FBS80002, FBS80003, with an average result of distinction (70%) or higher) they may then transfer to the MA-FBS the following semester. Any units completed in the GC-FBS or GD-FBS will be counted towards the MA-FBS. Please indicate your intent to transfer to the MA-FBS in your Statement of Purpose included with your application.
Applicants with equivalent qualifications that may provide direct entry into the MA-FBS will be considered on a case-by-case basis through applications for Advanced Standing. If you believe that you may meet requirements for Advanced Standing for the three Core units due to previous study, please speak to Student HQ and ask to speak to the MA-FBS course administrator to discuss your options.
The university may determine selection criteria and restrictions in respect of courses to apply in addition to these entry requirements.
Please read the Entry Requirements for the GC-FBS and GD-FBS when completing your application and ensure that you include the following information with your application form:
- certified copy of your academic award(s)
- a 500-word statement of purpose explaining what you hope to achieve from your studies
- current résumé