Forensic Investigation

Interested in Forensic Science?  Want a course covering a range of scientific disciplines?  This new course provides an exciting and stimulating pathway into how forensic science is used within criminal investigation.  For example, forensic scientists may locate and analyse physical traces such as hair, textiles, glass, body fluids, to determine if there are connections between a suspect and a victim or to a crime scene.

You will develop a range of skills, from practical to analytical thinking skills through the use of biological, chemical and physical evidence.  You will explore the principles of forensic science used to investigate crime, collation of evidence and analysis of forensic evidence.  This course is perfect if you are perhaps considering a career in forensics, policing or criminology and enjoy problem solving and investigation.

In order to take this course there is an entry requirement of 5 or above in Mathematics.

Course Title: Forensic Investigation

Qualification: BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (equivalent to 1.5 A Levels)

Award: Pass/Merit/Distinction/Distinction*

What will I study?

There are six different units including:-

UNITS	NAME & DETAILS OF UNITS	METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Unit 1	Principles and Applications of Science Includes the study of cells, microscopes, the periodic table, atomic structure and bonding, waves and sound.	External Exam
Unit 2	Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques Includes titration, colorimetry, cooling curves, chromatography and reflection.	Four internal assignments
Unit 3	Science Investigation Skills Includes enzymes, plants and the environment, diffusion, energy content of fuels and electrical circuits.	Externally marked task following Practical Investigation set by the exam board
Unit 4	Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice Includes the collection and preservation of evidence from a crime scene; analytical techniques to examine forensic evidence and the drawing of conclusions from forensic evidence.	Internal written assignment including collation, analysis and evaluation of evidence collected from a crime scene
TWO further units	Choice of:- Physiology of Human Body Systems Environmental Forensics Forensic Fire Investigation Forensic Traffic Collision Investigation Forensic Photography Forensic Genetics	Two coursework based assignments

How will I be taught?

You will be taught through both practical and theory lessons, role play and research tasks.  To be successful, you will also need to show good independent organisational and study skills.

What are the entry requirements?

A minimum of two Grade 5’s in Science plus normal sixth form entry criteria.

BTEC Forensics and Criminal Investigation Person Specification

• Have an interest in forensics and criminal investigation
• Have stong written communication skills
• The ability to work to deadlines
• Can work well in a team, as well as independently
• Enjoy carrying out practical investigations
• Excellent research, report writing and referencing skills

Where can this course lead?

The higher-order skills needed to complete this forensic science course are highly regarded by both higher education and employers.  This diversity incorporates planning, analytical and evaluative skills as well as the ability to understand scientific text, problem solve and conduct complex scientific laboratory tasks independently.