Forensic and Criminal Investigation Level 3

Quick facts

By selecting this course, you will be studying Forensics and Criminal Investigation which makes up two A Level equivalents. Students will then need to select from the table below their final one A Level equivalent.

Is it for me?

Are you fascinated by the science behind solving crime? Do you want to discover how evidence can reveal what happened at a crime scene, understand criminal behaviour and explore how science supports real criminal investigations? 
Forensic and Criminal Investigation brings together science, forensic investigation, criminology and psychology, giving you the opportunity to explore the fascinating relationship between scientific evidence and criminal investigation. 
Throughout the course, you will explore the biology, chemistry and scientific principles behind forensic investigation, learning how science can be used to examine evidence, reconstruct events and contribute to criminal investigations. You will develop practical laboratory skills and learn how evidence must be carefully collected, examined, analysed and interpreted to produce reliable scientific conclusions. 
You will go beyond the laboratory to investigate crime, criminal behaviour and the investigative process. You will explore how crimes are investigated, consider explanations for criminal behaviour and discover how psychology can contribute to our understanding of offenders and offending.  
A major part of the course is learning to think and work like a scientist and investigator. Working within our specialist laboratory facilities, you will develop practical scientific techniques, use laboratory equipment, conduct investigations and analyse results. You will learn to question evidence, identify limitations and use scientific reasoning to reach justified conclusions. 
Alongside your specialist knowledge, you will develop important transferable skills in problem solving, critical thinking, scientific analysis, research, numeracy, communication and teamwork, helping you prepare for the demands of university, apprenticeships and future employment. 
Forensic science is an incredibly varied field, with areas including crime scene investigation, toxicology, forensic anthropology, digital forensics and other scientific specialisms. 

What you'll learn

Equipment required for the course

You may borrow a laboratory coat and goggles for the duration of your course. Students are welcome to purchase their own if they prefer. A laptop would be beneficial but is not essential. 

Work experience placements

Students are expected to complete 50 hours of work experience each year, we have connections with local companies where you may choose to gain the industry experience to help you to develop your career interests and choose your next steps.

Assessment

This course is assessed through external exams and internal coursework.

Further study

The course can lead to many degree courses and professional qualifications. Previous students have gone on to study political science, criminology, applied sciences, criminology and science investigation. 

Example careers

• Biomedical Scientist
• Biotechnologist
• Pharmacologist 
• Biologist
• Zoologist
• Scientific Laboratory Technician
• Genetic Counsellor 
• Clinical Scientist/Researcher
• Microbiologist
• Toxicologist
• Neuroscientist
• Pharmaceutical Management
• Education

Days & times

Starting September 2027