Forensic Science BTEC Level 3 Diploma

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Entry Requirements

Normal entry requirements for advanced work including a Grade ‘C’ in a GCSE Science subject or BTEC First (Merit level) in a science related area.

About the Subject

In Forensic Science you will develop the skills and learn the background knowledge useful for employment in related Forensic Science occupations.. It can also be studied alongside other level 3 courses as a route into Higher Education. It is a practically based subject and requires a hard-working and determined approach to study.

Students will study the following 6 units in year 1:

  • Fundamentals of Science
  • Working in the Science Industry
  • Scientific Practical Techniques
  • Perceptions of Science
  • Criminology
  • Criminal Psychology

In year 2 students will study a further 6 units

  • Using Statistics in Science
  • Scientific Investigations
  • Application of Forensics Psychology
  • Traffic Accident Investigation
  • Using Mathematical Tools in Science
  • Forensic Evidence Collection
  • Forensic Fire Investigation Analysis

General Information

Fundamentals of Science

Learners will investigate the quantities necessary in chemical reactions, the structure and function of cells, the calorific value of different fuels and develop skills in communicating scientific information.

Working in the Science Industry

Learners will learn communication practices, how laboratories are designed, how information is stored in laboratory information management (LIMS) and how to work safely in a scientific workplace.

Scientific Investigations

The aim of this unit is to enable learners to explore the protocols associated with scientific investigations. The unit is based around working as a research scientist, setting up an idea, testing it and then reporting the findings.

Scientific Practical Techniques

The aim of this unit is to enable learners to use a range of practical techniques used in science such as the analysis of substances, the separation of substances and the use of instruments/sensors.

Perceptions of Science

Learners will consider how people, society and the media interact with science. They will also consider how scientific ideas develop and the ethical/moral issues associated with some scientific advances.

Using Mathematical Tools in Science

Learners start with basic numbers and simple algebraic manipulation and then move on to collecting and interpreting data on graphs and charts.

Using Statistics in Science

This unit enables the learner to use statistical techniques that are essential for the handling, collection and interpretation of scientific data.

Applications of Forensic Psychology

This unit examines the way in which psychology helps us to understand criminal behaviour and how it may be applied to aspects of the criminal justice system (CJS).

Criminology

The unit will also explore how changes in criminology theory have influenced the treatment of offenders by the courts. By looking at historical changes, learners will be encouraged to ask whether the new policies to control crime are indeed new and will come to understand how such changes are related to criminology.

Criminal Psychology

Learners will examine the research methods employed, including the ethical issues involved, and have the opportunity to apply these research methods to aspects of crime.

Traffic Accident Investigation

With our increasing dependence on road transport for getting around, car crashes are sadly a fact of life. In this unit learners will look at how and why accidents happen and what is being done to make our roads safer for everyone.

Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis

A forensic scientist’s major aspect of work is to examine samples of evidence from a crime scene. This unit is a practical approach to a very important aspect of forensic investigation. Learners will experience and develop their knowledge and skills firsthand by taking part in a simulated crime scene investigation.

Forensic Fire Investigation

Fire investigation is a specialist branch of forensic science. This unit explores the ways in which investigators can examine the charred remains of a building and trace back, through the damage, the seat of the fire, unravelling the mystery of what caused the incident.

What Next?

Depending upon your other subject choices, Forensic Science can lead in to careers in the science industry eg technician, pharmaceutical manufacturing or environmental testing or in the police or fire service. It can also provide a route into Higher Education as well as providing opportunities to develop a range of skills, techniques and attributes for successful performance in working life.