Free BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Truro. Classes run at Truro College, full-time during the day. This level 3 BTEC applied science qualification focuses on analytical and forensic science, covering scientific theory alongside hands-on practical skills. You'll learn to interpret evidence and data, and apply scientific knowledge to reach valid conclusions. The course runs over one year. To join, you'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths, English, and Science subjects.
Who this course is for
You will develop your knowledge and application of scientific theory and gain the practical skills needed to progress into employment or further study in the field of forensic science and associated industries. Do you enjoy using scientific knowledge to solve problems? Are you keen to learn how to piece together evidence and data to reach valid conclusions? The field of analytical and forensic science is vast and is not just limited to crime scene investigation. Scientists use the same skills on a daily basis to attempt to solve current issues. This course is designed to give you a detailed understanding of aspects of science with an emphasis on the skills and knowledge used in the fields of analytical and forensic science. You will study a range of core scientific units as well as specialist units relating to forensics. Over the two years of study, you will develop the scientific knowledge and practical and problem-solving skills to enable you to progress into employment or onto a range of Higher Education courses. Throughout the course you will develop your scientific understanding and practical skills through a series of assignments and challenging investigations which utilise some of the techniques used by crime scene investigators and analytical and forensic scientists in the workplace, including collecting evidence from crime scenes, and analysis of evidence through chemical spectroscopy, fingerprint analysis, chemical and biological testing.
Entry requirements
A minimum of four GCSEs or equivalent at grade 4 including Maths and English. You should also have the following grades in Science: Chemistry (4), Biology (4) and Physics (4) or Combined Science (4,4).
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of core scientific theory across chemistry, biology, and physics.
You'll apply scientific methods to analyse evidence and data.
You'll build practical laboratory skills used in analytical and forensic science.
You'll learn how to reach valid, evidence-based conclusions from scientific investigations.
You'll explore how forensic science techniques are used beyond crime scene investigation.
You'll practise problem-solving using scientific knowledge in applied contexts.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom and laboratory setting at Truro College, with a mix of taught sessions and practical work. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally set examinations. Assignments are based on real scientific scenarios and require you to apply theory to practical problems.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Truro College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Laboratory technician: supporting scientists in research or testing environments.
Forensic science technician: collecting and processing evidence for analysis.
Science technician: working in schools, colleges, or industrial labs.
Quality control analyst: testing products in pharmaceutical or food industries.
Environmental monitoring officer: sampling and analysing environmental data.
Research assistant: supporting scientific studies in public or private sector.
What you could study next
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science: a larger qualification that strengthens your university application in science subjects.
A Levels in Chemistry, Biology, or Physics: if you want to combine BTEC study with traditional A Level routes.
Degree in Forensic Science, Biomedical Science, or Chemistry: the natural next step for a career in scientific research or specialist forensic work.
