Forensic and Criminal Investigation - Level 3

• 5 GCSEs at grade 4 including Maths, English and Science

Scottish equivalent

• 4 National 5s at grade C and above including English, Maths/Applications of Maths and Science

You will also be invited to meet our teaching team before starting the course to participate in an applicant event, where we can discuss entry grades and suitability to the course.

By completing this course, you will:

• Achieve a Level 3 qualification equivalent to 1.5 A Levels with UCAS points for university progression.
• Upon completing year 2 this could then be equivalent to 3 A Levels. 
• Develop strong scientific, analytical and investigative skills, preparing you for higher education in forensic science, criminology, policing, biomedical science and related fields.
• Build confidence in working like a real forensic investigator - collecting, analysing and presenting evidence.
• Produce professional-standard reports, portfolios and expert-witness style statements used in real criminal investigations.

• You’ll study four mandatory units and choose two specialist optional units, giving you the freedom to shape your learning around your interests.

Mandatory Units

• Principles & Applications of Science – biology, chemistry and physics applied to forensic scenarios.
• Practical Scientific Procedures & Techniques – titration, colorimetry, chromatography, calibration and lab safety.
• Science Investigation Skills – planning, carrying out and evaluating scientific investigations.
• Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice – processing a simulated crime scene, collecting evidence, carrying out laboratory analysis, and writing expert witness reports.

Optional Units

• Forensic Fire Investigation
• Forensic Traffic Collision Investigation

• Through realistic, hands-on practical work in labs and simulated crime scenes.
• Classroom lessons to build knowledge in core science and investigative theory.
• Workshops, demonstrations and scenario-based activities.
• Opportunity for employer involvement such as guest speakers from police, fire services or forensic labs.
• A mix of group work, independent study, research tasks and practical skills development.

Assessment is a mixture of:

External Assessments (41%)

• Unit 1: Written exam covering biology, chemistry and physics.
• Unit 3: A supervised scientific investigation task.

Internal Assessments

• Coursework assignments, practical assessments, lab reports, portfolios, crime-scene notes, evidence logs and expert witness statements.

Synoptic Assessment

• A major investigative assignment in Unit 4, where you investigate a simulated crime scene, analyse collected evidence and present conclusions.

Your final grade will be awarded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction

You are expected to take part in work experience and employer engagement as part of your course and engage with local employers to embed knowledge and skills.

English and maths is embedded in the course to help you enhance your skills. You will also work towards GCSE English and maths as part of your study programme at the college.

Upon successful completion of this course you can progress onto the Extended Diploma (Year 2).

You can also progress into careers such as:

• Forensic Science
• Criminology
• Forensic and Criminal Investigation
• Biomedical Science
• Environmental Science
• Psychology or Forensic Psychology

If you are aged 16-18 when you begin your course you are likely to be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found within the financial support section.

If you are aged 19+ the cost of the course will depend on your circumstances. Our support pages can help you determine your suitability.

This course may be free or discounted if you meet certain criteria. Check our eligibility guide to find out more.