Forensic & Criminal Investigation Level 3

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)

Students are expected to supplement their College attendance with at least twelve hours of private study per week. It is an academic course and 100% attendance to classes is expected. Tutorial support is given on 121 basis and targets set electronically and reviewed regularly.

The Extended Diploma is assessed by a range of methods including practical exercises, essays, projects and externally assessed examinations. Most will involve written and practical work which you will have to complete by strict deadlines. This means it is very important to organise your time and spread your workload so that all deadlines can be met.

The assignments will be divided into a series of set tasks along with a clear explanation of what has to be achieved in order to obtain one of the following grades: Distinction* (highest grade), Distinction, Merit, Pass, Referral or Fail.

• 5 GCSEs at grade 9 - 4 (A* - C) to include GCSE Maths and double Science (preferably at 5 or above). It is strongly recommended that you also have GCSE English at grade 9 - 4 (A* - C).

A firm offer of a place on the course is conditional on you:
• attending a Welcome Event (a presentation and formal interview)
• attending two compulsory Taster Days (week commencing Monday 28th June 2021)
• achievement of GCSE results at the correct level (as stated above)
• a satisfactory reference. In addition to the entry qualifications listed, the offer of a place on the course is subject to the outcomes of initial assessment, which will be taken at the College as part of the admissions process. Please note that entry criteria may vary quite significantly between courses at the same level. This is to take account of the specific skills needed for success on particular courses, the length of the course and the requirements for progression to the next level. Entry criteria are given as a guide, and the exact requirements in order to obtain a place on a particular course will be confirmed following attendance at a Welcome Event/Interview.

The Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A levels achieved over 2 years or 1.5 A level if Foundation Diploma is taken over year.

You will develop transferable skills in applied science and forensic science that are highly regarded by universities and employers. You may therefore be able to progress onto a range of degree courses such as
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) Biological Science
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science BSc (Hons) Criminology
and other forensic / science related courses. You could also progress onto the BTEC Level 4/Level 5 HNC/HND Diploma in Policing Studies offered at Cambridge Regional College.