Extended Diploma in Forensic Science Level 3

About this course

Is the course right for me?

We have all heard of this subject, but what does it really involve? Forensic Science is the application of science to the law. Forensic scientists arrive at crime scenes to search for and examine physical traces, such as DNA, fluids and clothes fibres, that can help the police understand how a crime was committed. If you watch crime shows, read thrillers or keep up to date with news headlines, you will have seen the influence that forensic science can have on the outcome of criminal cases. This is a fascinating area, but it is also skilled and highly competitive. To succeed you will need to be intelligent, analytical and highly focused. Our Extended Diploma will help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to get ahead in this groundbreaking field.

What will I be doing?

You will study an intriguing mix of science and social science through lectures, lab work and practical activities. Our course begins with an overview of the fundamentals of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, such as cells and tissues, energy transfer, atomic structure and titration. You will also examine human circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems, and learn how to use a variety of scientific instruments that you will need when you start to sample and analyse specimens.

You will study a number of important topics, including microbiology, chemical analysis, criminal psychology, criminology, forensic psychology, genetics, medical imaging, statistics, physiology and lab techniques.

In your second year, you will have the opportunity to work on an extended scientific project, in which you can explore your own interests and demonstrate the skills you have acquired so far.

Entry requirements

You will need five GCSE grades A-C, with a minimum grade C in Science and grade D in English and Maths. Alternatively, you will hold a Merit grade in a Level 2 or First Diploma in Science.

Our Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels.

Assessment

You will be assessed on an ongoing basis through coursework assignments with an emphasis on practical work and individual research. There are no exams or unit tests.

What next?

With an Extended Diploma in Forensic Science Level 3, you can choose to progress to a HNC/HND or degree in Forensic Investigation, Criminology, Psychology, Microbiology or Policing and Criminal Investigation.

Forensic Science is a diverse and highly specialised career. After leaving university, you could become a Laboratory Attendant or Assistant Forensic Scientist, undertaking biology and chemistry-based analytical work. With more experience, you could get a role as a Forensic Scientist or Reporting Officer and begin to attend crime scenes in an advisory capacity. Then why not set your sights on becoming a Scene of Crime Examiner, Fingerprint Expert or Forensic Imaging Specialist?

Your Extended Diploma is also helpful for other career pathways such as Archaeology, Nursing, Teaching and Medicine.

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For help applying call 01905 743456