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Free BTEC Level 3 Forensic Investigation Course in Chelmsford

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Forensic Investigation Course in Chelmsford. Classes run full-time at Chelmsford College Moulsham, five days a week during the day. You'll need four GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including Maths, Science, and English Language at grade 9 to 3, to be considered for a place. The course runs over two years and covers the science of forensic evidence alongside criminal psychology and criminology. You'll study in crime scene rooms and laboratories as well as the classroom. Units include forensic genetics, forensic archaeology, and traffic accident investigation. This level 3 BTEC forensic investigation qualification is equivalent to three A levels.

Who this course is for

This course is designed for individuals who are fascinated by the intricacies of forensic evidence. If you have a passion for understanding the scientific and psychological aspects of crime, such as how forensic evidence is gathered, processed, and analysed, as well as into the psychology of those who commit crimes, then this course could be for you. You will learn through activities based in our crime scene rooms, the laboratory, and the classroom, where a number of our activities are scenario-based. Overall, this Diploma in Forensic and Criminal Investigation will provide you with a good understanding of the industry from various angles.

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements:

4 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including Maths and Science and English Language at grade 9-3.

Specific Entry Requirements:

Internal candidates should also have successful completion of current course to meet course entry requirements and meet College expectations regarding attendance and attitude

What you will learn

  • You'll study core biology, chemistry, and physics to underpin your scientific knowledge.
  • You'll learn how forensic evidence is gathered, processed, and analysed at crime scenes.
  • You'll explore forensic genetics, forensic archaeology, and forensic anthropology.
  • You'll investigate forensic fire investigation and traffic accident investigation.
  • You'll study criminal psychology and criminology as core elements of the course.
  • You'll develop science investigation skills used across forensic and laboratory settings.
  • You'll work through scenario-based activities in dedicated crime scene rooms and a laboratory.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions, laboratory work, and scenario-based activities in dedicated crime scene rooms. Assessment is through Pearson Edexcel BTEC coursework, assignments, and practical tasks rather than traditional exams. You'll build a portfolio of evidence across units throughout the two years. Some units may include externally set assessments as required by the Pearson Edexcel specification.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Chelmsford College Moulsham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Forensic science technician: supporting evidence collection and lab analysis
  • Crime scene investigator: working with police to document and gather evidence
  • Digital forensic investigator: recovering and analysing digital evidence
  • Police officer: applying to forces including the Metropolitan or regional constabularies
  • Border Force officer: screening people and goods at ports and airports
  • Laboratory analyst: testing samples in a scientific or forensic setting
  • Criminology researcher: supporting academic or policy research into crime

What you could study next

  • Degree in Forensic Science or Forensic Investigation: the most direct next step for laboratory and crime scene careers.
  • Degree in Criminology or Psychology: builds on the criminal psychology units you've studied.
  • Degree in Policing Studies: a route into the police service with a degree-level foundation.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in a science or investigation field: earn while you study at degree level.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science: a shorter higher education route if a full degree isn't right for you yet.
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