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BTEC Level 3 Forensic Investigation Course in Darlington

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

BTEC Level 3 Forensic Investigation Course in Darlington. Classes run full-time at Darlington College, five days a week during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. This level 3 btec forensic investigation qualification covers biology, chemistry, and physics through practical, hands-on study. The course runs for 34 weeks. You'll need four GCSEs at grade C (4 or 5) or above, including a science, maths, and English Language, plus a reference and an interview before enrolment.

Who this course is for

Applied Science Foundation Diploma is a multidisciplinary subject covering the areas of biology, physics and chemistry. It is a rigorous, practical subject that makes students highly employable, with many of students progressing on to employment or further studies in biomedical sciences, nursing, forensic science, applied chemistry and pharmaceutical science, cosmetic, food and nutrition industries.

The course is suitable for school leavers and for mature students as well.

Entry requirements

You will need four GCSEs at grade C (4-5) or above (including any Science, Maths and English Language). Alternatively, you can have a BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Applied Science (at Merit or above), or overseas GCSE equivalents.

Applicants will also need a good reference from a school or employer. You will complete an interview prior to enrolment.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the biological principles that underpin forensic science.
  • You'll apply chemistry knowledge to analyse substances and evidence.
  • You'll use physics concepts to interpret forensic data and crime scene findings.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills through hands-on experiments.
  • You'll learn how to collect, handle, and document forensic evidence correctly.
  • You'll explore how forensic science connects to biomedical and pharmaceutical science.
  • You'll build the scientific knowledge needed for university or employment in science-related fields.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom teaching and practical laboratory sessions at Darlington College. Assessment is through a combination of assignments, projects, and externally assessed units set by Pearson Edexcel. There are no traditional written exams for every unit, but some units include a set task completed under timed conditions. Your work is assessed against Pearson Edexcel's national standards throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Forensic science technician: supports evidence analysis in labs or field settings.
  • Laboratory technician: carries out scientific tests in research or industrial labs.
  • Biomedical science assistant: works in NHS or private medical laboratories.
  • Pharmacy technician: prepares and dispenses medicines under pharmacist supervision.
  • Food science technologist: tests and develops food products for safety and quality.
  • Crime scene investigator: attends scenes to gather and preserve physical evidence.
  • Research assistant: supports scientists in university or commercial research projects.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Forensic Science: a university degree that takes your investigation skills to a professional level.
  • BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science: leads to roles in NHS and private medical laboratories.
  • BSc (Hons) Applied Chemistry or Pharmaceutical Science: strong routes into industry or research.
  • BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science (Level 4): a work-focused higher education route if you prefer not to go straight to a full degree.
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