Level 3 in Forensic & Criminal Investigation

If you are interested in pursuing a career in forensic science then this academic course gives you the chance of studying a mixture of Biology, Chemistry and Maths and also psychology and criminology topics. This course will enable you to develop practical science skills but also the ability to plan, research, problem solve and communicate findings. You will be able to apply your knowledge to different situations in a mature learning environment that is very different to school.

We have specialist, well equipped labs for Chemistry and Biology.  Our staff are very well qualified and passionate about delivering practical science.

You will be assessed through a mixture of exams, examined tasks and coursework. Equivalent to 3 A levels, this qualification will allow progression to higher education or employment.

Over the two years there are broad range of units covered. These include:
7 core units (compulsory)
1: Principles and Applications of Science I (exam: marked by BTEC)
2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques (coursework)
3: Science Investigation Skills (practical assessment and write up; externally marked by BTEC)
4: Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice (coursework)
5. Applications of Criminology (exam: marked BTEC)
6. Criminal Investigation Procedures in Practice
7. Applications of Criminal and Forensic Psychology (exams: marked by BTEC)

Specialist units (6 additional units are studied, and what is studied will vary from year to year):
• Physiology of Human Body Systems
• Forensic Traffic Collision Investigation
• Practical Chemical Analysis
• Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques
• Forensic Photography
• Forensic Genetics

You should have a strong interest in applied science, in particular developing practical skills in chemistry and forensics, be committed to the level of work required and have good time management skills. Some of your classes will be taken with the Applied Science students as there are shared units.