BTEC National Diploma In Applied Science - Forensic Science (Incorporating National Award)

Course suitability

The course will appeal to those students who want to follow a career in laboratory-based science.

The emphasis of the course will be centred on the work of the Forensic Scientist, although the generic science skills learnt would have relevance to many other science careers.

Students should appreciate that the course only provides a first step to further training in employment or Higher Education. Students taking this course should be comfortable with coursework assessment and be prepared to work hard to meet the demands of science training.

Entry qualifications

Satisfactory interview and a minimum of 4 GCSEs at Grades A* - C, including English, Maths and Double Science.

Course content

The course comprises 9 units of study in the first year:

Fundamentals of Science
Scientific Investigation
Scientific Practical Techniques
Application of Numbers for Science Technicians (half unit)
Statistics for Science Technicians (half unit)
Genetics and Genetic Engineering
Microbiological Techniques
Chemical Laboratory Techniques
Criminology
Criminal Psychology

The second year of the course has a further 9 units of study, including subjects such as:

Working in the Science Industry
Perceptions of Science
Practical Chemical Analysis
Forensic Media and Crime
Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis
Forensic Psychology
Criminal Investigation Practice
Forensic Investigation Procedures

Additionality

Key Skills

Assessment

Continuous assessment throughout the course and an assessment of a final portfolio.

Progression

University or employment in science-based occupations.