BTEC National Certificate in Applied Science
(Forensic Science)
This is a full-time course equivalent to 2 A levels, suitable for students who obtain CC in Science at GCSE. You do not normally take other A levels with this course.
Forensic science is the use of scientific methods to assist the police and the courts in resolving legal issues, whether those issues are criminal or civil.
This full-time two year qualification combines written theory with the practical skills required for working within the field of forensic science, whether that is at a crime scene or in the laboratory.
It is equivalent to 2 A Levels, with classes scheduled throughout the week and for suitable students can be combined with an additional A Level. Successful completion of the course can lead students onto university courses to study forensic science or other qualifications within analytical science or bioscience fields.
Throughout the two years of this qualification you will study a variety of biological, chemical and physical sciences, structured in such a way as to give you 'hands on' practical experience in using science and applying it to the study of 'forensics'.
The course is assessed by completion of structured assignments which have been developed to be stimulating and challenging.These assignments, in combination with the theoretical and practical structure of the course, will enable you to develop the transferable skills required to work within any scientific field: excellent communication skills, problem solving, time management, teamwork and an enquiring mind.
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs at grade C or above.These must include Mathematics, English Language and double Science.
Course Content
The course consists of 12 units, 6 delivered in the first year and 6 delivered in the second year.
Examples of the units studied include:
• Criminal psychology
• Forensic evidence collection and analysis
• Forensic photography
• Fundamentals of science
• Traffic accident investigation