Please note; this unit is only available to students approved for study in the Investigative Practice specialisation of R4C Bachelor of Arts with Professional Honours. For further information; please contact dpfem.enquiries@utas.edu.au.
Introduction
Building on basic investigation and interviewing skills developed through previous training or in the workplace, this unit develops skills that will enable each student to conduct simple investigations on their own. Students will engage with contemporary literature regarding investigative techniques and technologies, intelligence gathering and evaluation, and questioning techniques that minimise errors and enable free narratives. Students will interact with skilled practitioners to discuss and develop understandings of and skills in: searches, written and oral briefings for internal and external audiences, physical evidence management, court file development, and the determination and following of investigative leads.
Summary
| Unit name | Investigation for Frontline Officers |
| Unit code | LAW477 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Health School of Paramedicine and Public Safety |
| Discipline | Policing and Emergency Management |
| Coordinator | Doctor James Dwyer |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Honours |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 21/2/2027 | 15/3/2027 | 18/4/2027 | 12/6/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Detail and adhere to requirements of legislation and jurisdictional policies and procedures relating to investigations, including informant management and the interviewing of witnesses and suspects
- Conduct interviews and interactions suited to the investigative context with a witness and/or suspect in order to obtain relevant, accurate and complete accounts and information
- Prepare written and oral investigative reports, records and briefings to appraise appropriate personnel of investigation details
- Manage relationships with victims, witnesses and suspects.
- Conduct a simple investigation and manage physical evidence
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | This unit is delivered fully online and is based in the workplace (Tasmania Police). You are required to attend two weeks of face-to-face training held at the Police Academy. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Legislation and Scenarios (30%)|Victim Interview (30%)|In-field investigation (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
There is no prescribed textbook for this unit. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | Recommended Readings will be provided by your Unit Coordinator via the Reading List link in MyLO, or the unit Reading List on the University Library website. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.