BTEC Level 3 Forensic and Criminal Investigation Course in Cambridge

CostFee:7355.00 Concession: 316.00
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

BTEC Level 3 Forensic and Criminal Investigation Course in Cambridge. Classes run at Cambridge Regional College, full-time over two years. This level 3 btec forensic and criminal investigation course covers biology, chemistry, maths, psychology, and criminology. You'll develop practical science skills alongside research, problem-solving, and communication skills. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and double Science. GCSE English at grade 4 or above is strongly recommended. Offers are conditional on attending a Welcome Event, two Taster Days, achieving the required GCSE grades, and a satisfactory reference.

Who this course is for

If you are interested in pursuing a career in forensic science then this academic course gives you the chance of studying a mixture of Biology, Chemistry and Maths and also psychology and criminology topics. This course will enable you to develop practical science skills but also the ability to plan, research, problem solve and communicate findings. You will be able to apply your knowledge to different situations in a mature learning environment that is very different to school.

We have specialist, well equipped labs for Chemistry and Biology. Our staff are very well qualified and passionate about delivering practical science.

You will be assessed through a mixture of exams, examined tasks and coursework. Equivalent to 3 A levels, this qualification will allow progression to higher education or employment.

Over the two years there are broad range of units covered. These include: 7 core units (compulsory) 1: Principles and Applications of Science I (exam: marked by BTEC) 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques (coursework) 3: Science Investigation Skills (practical assessment and write up; externally marked by BTEC) 4: Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice (coursework) 5. Applications of Criminology (exam: marked BTEC) 6. Criminal Investigation Procedures in Practice 7. Applications of Criminal and Forensic Psychology (exams: marked by BTEC)

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 9 - 4 (A - C) to include GCSE Maths and double Science (preferably at 5 or above). It is strongly recommended that you also have GCSE English at grade 9 - 4 (A - C).

A firm offer of a place on the course is conditional on you: attending a Welcome Event (a presentation and formal interview) attending two compulsory Taster Days achievement of GCSE results at the correct level (as stated above) a satisfactory reference.

What you will learn

  • You'll study biology, chemistry, and maths as they apply to forensic science.
  • You'll explore psychology and criminology topics relevant to criminal investigation.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory and science skills.
  • You'll learn how to plan and carry out research.
  • You'll practise problem-solving using scientific evidence.
  • You'll communicate findings clearly in written and practical formats.
  • You'll apply scientific knowledge to real investigative scenarios.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom and laboratory at Cambridge Regional College. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally set examinations. You'll build a portfolio of work across units covering science, criminology, and investigation skills. Assessment is ongoing throughout the two years rather than concentrated at the end.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cambridge Regional College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Forensic science technician: supports laboratory analysis and evidence processing.
  • Crime scene investigator: collects and records physical evidence at scenes.
  • Police officer: many forces value a forensic or science background.
  • Forensic analyst: examines samples in a specialist laboratory setting.
  • Criminology researcher: works in academic or policy research roles.
  • Probation officer: supports offender management and rehabilitation work.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Forensic Science: the most direct university route after this btec forensic and criminal investigation qualification.
  • BSc (Hons) Criminology or Criminal Justice: broadens into the social and legal side of crime.
  • BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science: useful if you want to focus on the biology and laboratory aspects.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Applied Science: a shorter higher-education route if you prefer to study before committing to a full degree.

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