- Structures, definitions, principles, and powers applicable to conducting investigations
- Legislation, policy, and procedures relating to: Detention and charging of suspects; Bail and out-of-court disposals; Disclosure processes and responsibilities
- Investigative techniques and evidence gathering, including: Crime scene management; Passive data and intelligence collection; Exhibit recovery and documentation
- Interviewing suspects, witnesses, and complainants: Legal requirements and best practice; interview principles; Special considerations for young and vulnerable persons
- Statement production for complainants, witnesses, and officers - Disclosure schedules (MG6) and exhibit schedules (MG12)
- Good practice when dealing with victims and witnesses, including: Supporting victims during investigations; Care through the Criminal Justice System and post-judicial proceedings
- Impact of investigations on victims, witnesses, and investigators
- Complexities of abuse affecting vulnerable groups, including: Domestic abuse, coercive control, sexual offences; Cultural considerations and societal attitudes
- Control measures to prevent abuse of power by public officials
- Learning from reviews, including serious case reviews and domestic homicide reviews
- What constitutes justice and reasons why cases may not proceed to court

1. Students will undertake a simulated suspect interview where they must demonstrate application of the law, authorised professional practice guidance and best practice interview techniques.

2. Students will complete a portfolio based on a simulated case containing a complainant statement, witness statement, police officer statement, short descriptive note, disclosure schedule and exhibit list utilising nationally recognised Manual of Guidance forms (provided by the course team for you to use).

This module will be taught through a range or lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical sessions. Sessions and assessment will entail practice from industry to enhance real world applicability and employability skills development. Assignment support will be built into the module. You will experience interviewing masterclasses in scheduled taught sessions where those with police experience will demonstrate and explain good techniques for interviewing. You will also conduct non-assessed interviews on the module before your summative assessment to refine your practice based on reflection and feedback. Examples of completed MG forms will be provided to support you in completing the forms for your case study assessment and you have the opportunity to submit some forms for formative feedback before the deadline.

1. Apply the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and associated legislation in dealing with individuals suspected of crime.

Application & problem solving;

2. Apply investigative techniques and best practice in interviewing when interviewing suspects.

Application & problem solving; Communication

3. Collate, manage, and present investigative material in accordance with the professional investigative standards.

Application & problem solving; Communication

4. Create a police case file demonstrating accurate application of legislation, investigative procedures, evidence documentation, and professional standards.

Application & problem solving

Simulation suite

College of Policing (2025) APP- Investigations. (Online) Available at: https://www.college.police.uk/app/investigation

Connor, P. (2026) Blackstone's Police Manuals 2026 Oxford University Press.

Police & Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and Codes of Practice A - H Home office (Online)

Ever watched a police show on TV and thought you could investigate that crime? Well, here is your opportunity to learn what really goes into an investigation and harness your skills. This module takes your investigative skills to the next level, building on foundational knowledge to explore the full spectrum of criminal investigations. You’ll dive deep into legislation, policy, and procedures that shape investigative practice, while mastering advanced techniques for evidence gathering, suspect interviews, and disclosure. Through practical role-play and scenario-based learning, you’ll apply the interviewing models to real-world situations, produce professional statements, and navigate the intricacies of detention, charging, bail, and out-of-court disposals. You’ll also examine how abuse impacts vulnerable groups and the challenges of safeguarding victims and witnesses.