BTEC Level 3 Forensic and Criminal Investigation Course in Henley-on-Thames

Cost£25.00
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start8 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

BTEC Level 3 Forensic and Criminal Investigation Course in Henley-on-Thames. Classes run at The Henley College, full-time over two years. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec forensic and criminal investigation qualification blends practical skills with academic study. You'll explore forensic science, criminal law, and investigative techniques. The course is designed to prepare you for university, higher apprenticeships, or direct entry into employment. Entry requires GCSE grade 4 in English, Maths, two Sciences (or Combined Science at grade 44), and one further subject at grade 4.

Who this course is for

These are vocational qualifications which blend practical, career-focused skills and academic study to prepare you for direct entry into employment or enable you to move on to higher education, apprenticeships or higher apprenticeships

Entry requirements

English grade 4, Maths grade 4, Two Sciences 4 or Combined Science in grade 44. Plus one grade 4 from your remaining subject.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the principles of forensic science and how evidence is collected and analysed.
  • You'll explore criminal law and the justice system in England and Wales.
  • You'll learn how criminal investigations are planned and conducted.
  • You'll develop skills in interpreting scientific data and presenting findings.
  • You'll examine crime scene management and the roles of different agencies.
  • You'll study the psychology of criminal behaviour.
  • You'll build report-writing and analytical skills used in investigative work.

How you will learn

The course is classroom based, with a mix of assignments, project work, and practical activities. Assessment is mainly through coursework and unit assignments rather than exams, though some units include external assessment set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll build a portfolio of evidence across the two years. Optional field trips may be available to support your learning.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Textbooks cost approximately £25, and there may be optional field trips with additional costs. The Henley College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Crime scene investigator, supporting police forensic teams
  • Police officer, joining a force after further training
  • Forensic technician, working in a laboratory setting
  • Probation services officer, supporting offender rehabilitation
  • Court clerk or legal administrator, working within the justice system
  • Fraud investigator, working for financial or government bodies
  • Custody detention officer, working in police custody suites

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Forensic Science, a degree that builds directly on this qualification and opens specialist laboratory and investigative roles.
  • BSc (Hons) Criminology or Criminal Justice, for those drawn more to the social and legal side of the subject.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in Policing, combining paid work with a degree-level qualification.
  • BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science, a shorter higher education route into forensic or laboratory work.

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