Forensic and Criminal Investigation - Level 3 Foundation Diploma

Are you interested in how crime scenes are investigated?

Do you want to understand the workings of the criminal mind?

Do you want to learn how investigators examine the remains of a fire and trace back, through the damage and point of origin?

Forensic Science looks into how evidence is gathered either to solve crimes or problem-solve. You will learn practical and technical skills to look at how microscopic clues can be gathered from crime scenes and how to analyse them to provide key information that helps the police put the 'story' together. In addition, you will also learn the skills needed in planning a scientific investigation to record, interpret, and draw scientific conclusions and evaluations.

This course is the first year of a two-year course.

In the first year you will learn the following topics:

• Principles and Applications of Science (external exam)
• Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
• Science Investigation Skills (external exam)
• Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice 
• Physiology of Human Body Systems
• Forensic Fire Investigation

• 5 GCSE at Grade 4 or above, including Science, English/and or Maths

Principles and Applications of Science and Science Investigation Skills are externally assessed through examinations.

The other units listed are assessed internally through internal assignments where you will have to produce a range of assessments which will include scientific reports, videos, photographs, presentations and essays. 

In addition, you will be going out on work experience to gain skills and knowledge within the forensic science industry.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

The range of higher education degree courses that you progress onto:

• BSc (Hons) in Policing and Criminal Investigation
• BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation
• BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science
• BSc (Hons) in Forensic Psychology
• BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Criminology
• BSc (Hons) in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Investigation
• BA (Hons) in Criminology
• BA (Hons) in Criminology and Law