Free BTEC Level 3 Forensic Investigation Course in Lancaster. Classes run full-time at Lancaster and Morecambe College, five days a week during the day. The course runs for one year. You'll study the science and methods behind forensic investigation, covering topics such as crime scene analysis, evidence collection, and the scientific principles that underpin forensic work. The course includes careers-related learning throughout, with opportunities such as educational trips, employer guest speakers, and employability skills sessions. If you're 16 to 18 years old, your study programme also includes maths and English where needed, plus work experience. There are no entry requirements for this level 3 btec forensic investigation course.
Who this course is for
This course is designed for 16-18 year old and will be delivered as a study programme which includes math and English where applicable and work experience. The course will include a substantial amount of careers related learning designed to support progression to the suitable next step, this could include educational trips, employability skills and employer encounters such as guest speakers.
Entry requirements
There are no entry requirements for this course
What you will learn
You'll examine the principles and techniques used in forensic investigation
You'll study how crime scenes are recorded, managed, and processed
You'll learn how physical and trace evidence is collected and preserved
You'll explore the scientific analysis methods used to examine forensic evidence
You'll develop an understanding of the criminal justice system and how forensic science supports it
You'll build employability skills through employer encounters and careers-related activities
You'll gain practical experience through work placement (16 to 18 year olds)
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Lancaster and Morecambe College. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma is assessed through a combination of assignments and internally assessed units, with some externally assessed components set by Pearson. You'll build a portfolio of work across the year. Careers learning is woven throughout, including guest speakers from relevant industries and educational trips.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Lancaster and Morecambe College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Crime scene investigator support role, assisting police forensic teams
Forensic laboratory technician, processing and analysing samples
Police officer, using forensic knowledge in frontline investigations
Forensic science technician, working in a laboratory environment
Evidence recovery officer, collecting and logging physical evidence
Scenes of crime officer (SOCO), attending and documenting crime scenes
What you could study next
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Forensic Investigation: a larger qualification that strengthens your university application in forensic science or criminology.
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science: a degree for those wanting to work as a qualified forensic scientist.
BSc (Hons) Criminology: suits those drawn more to the criminal justice side of forensic work.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science: a work-focused Level 4 route into laboratory and technical roles.
