Full Time Applied Science BTEC National Diploma

Applied Science BTEC National Diploma
The application of science leads to a wide variety of careers and Higher Education opportunities. The courses offered allow you to prepare for a number of options, whilst learning about the practical applications of science and laboratory practice. You will gain an insight into many of the roles of technical work in science, from scientific support at scenes of crime (SOCO) to getting the colours of jelly babies right, from keeping the water we drink safe to the diagnosis of diseases.

Forensic Science

In addition to the Science core you will study the work of the Forensic Science Service and other related agencies like the Police and Fire Services. You will learn how to take and analyse fingerprints, how DNA evidence is gathered and used, gain an insight into how psychologists profile criminals, and how pathologists determine time of death. This is a 3 A Level equivalent course.

Medical Science

In addition to the science core you will study clinical areas of science technical work. You will learn about the nature, causal and diagnostic factors of disease from those caused by microbes to conditions associated with genetic mutations. You will also gain an insight into the field of genetic engineering and opportunities and dangers it opens up for us. This 3 A Level equivalent course is taken within the Applied Science suite.

What will I study?
You will gain a full understanding of the technical aspects of scientific enquiry and laboratory work. The course introduces you to the work of forensic and biomedical scientists, and you will develop your understanding of criminal psychology, crime scene investigation and pathology laboratory analysis. A number of work-related visits and a one week work placement help to put your learning into a career focused context.

You will take 6 core units:

• Fundamentals of Science
• Working in the Science Industry
• Scientific Investigation
• Scientific Practical Techniques
• Perceptions of Science
• Application of Number for Science Technicians

You will also take 12 special units, which will be negotiated with your tutors depending on your career aims.

Units include:

• Practical Chemical Analysis
• Microbiology Techniques
• Statistics for Science Technicians
• Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis
• Criminal Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Using Science in the Workplace
• Biomedical Science Techniques
• Genetics and Genetic Engineering
• Physiology of Human Body Systems
• Forensic Science Informatics
• Biochemical Techniques
• Microbiology Techniques
• Biomedical Science
• Forensic Media and Crime

How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed by a variety of projects and assignments, including investigations, written reports, presentations and research.

What can I do next?
You could go on to a Higher National Diploma or Degree course in Applied Science, Forensic Science, Criminology and related areas, or employment in a laboratory environment.