KV4002 - Introduction to Digital Crime Investigations

What will I learn on this module?

You will be given a rounded introduction to the principles of digital crimes and digital forensics from both a theoretical and technical perspective provided in contextual setting for digital forensics by an examination of the criminal justice system within England and Wales. You will be introduced to the basic philosophy and concepts of digital forensics, in particular the role of digital evidence and the basic techniques associated with gathering, preserving and presenting digital evidence. You will be guided in developing a critical and analytical approach to problem solving, the application of computer fundamentals and principles to digital evidence, an examination of the consequences of actions, the need to protect evidential integrity, and the need to document all actions. You will also be provided with an introduction to the particular legal, professional and ethical issues likely to face digital forensic examinations, such as legal requirements in the gathering, preservation and presentation of digital evidence so that it will be admissible in a court of law.


CoP pre-join curriculum learning outcomes: CoP February 2026 v3.0

Core National Learning
Wellbeing and resilience 3.1–3.2
Neighbourhood, community and partnership working 2.1a, 2.1b, 2.2b, 2.4, 2.9; 3.3
Information and intelligence 2.1–2.5; 3.1
Conducting investigations 3.5

Core National Supporting Information
Supporting/Supplementary Material
Information, intelligence and evidence
Conducting investigations

Legislation/Reference Material
Information, intelligence and evidence
Conducting investigations

How will I learn on this module?

The module includes a combination of methods to support learning, including lectures, practical seminar sessions and guided learning. Topics will normally be introduced in lectures and explored through practical exercises (helping you develop the practical skills needed) and guided learning activities. You will be encouraged to develop independent learning skills. The university library offers support for all students through its catalogue and an Ask4Help online service.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported through active participation and discussion during seminars and workshops. These offer a unique opportunity to fully understand the theory underpinning the principles and practices of a thorough and effective police investigation. All lecture, seminar and workshop material will be available on the University’s eLearning Portal, supplemented with guidance on further reading relevant to the subjects.
Written assessment feedback will also be provided to allow you to understand how you performed and how you can build on this performance in subsequent assessments within your programme.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Acquire an understanding of the core concepts which underpin the disciplines of digital forensics
2. You will acquire the necessary knowledge and understanding of the relevant computer crime and law.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Identify findings obtained from digital forensic investigations and apply appropriate procedural principles to that evidence.
4. Appreciate the ethical, legal and professional responsibilities required of practitioners in these disciplines

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Communicate and present written investigative findings in such ways that they meet the expected standards.

How will I be assessed?

Formative – Short MCQ quiz via elp. Feedback via elp.

Summative – Written 2,500 word assignment which will be used to assess all MLO’s. Written feedback will be provided via elp.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module introduces you to the principles of digital forensics from both a theoretical and technical perspective and provides a contextual setting for these disciplines by an examination of the criminal justice system within England and Wales. You will be guided through and provided feedback on exercises during the timetabled sessions as well as attending a series of lectures and seminars covering core teaching topics. You will be assessed via a 2,500 word written assignment critiquing an aspect of digital crime investigations.

Course info

UCAS Code Z085

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time

School Humanities and Social Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

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Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

 

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The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies. 

 

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