Is Forensic Science for you?

applied

Exam Board:

Pearson EdexcelBTEC Level 3

Are you interested in how core

scientific concepts such as atomic

structure and cellular function

underpin Forensic Science?

Do you want to learn how analytical

techniques are used in the laboratory?

You wish to develop the skills and learn the

background knowledge useful for employment

in related Forensic Science occupations.

You have the commitment

and organisational skills to

keep on top of coursework demands.

This course takes up TWO of your subject choices

at college.

You must have achieved at least 5 GCSEs at grade

C or above, including at least a grade C in a GCSE

Science subject or BTEC First (Merit level) in a

science related area.

science

Do you want to learn the theory

behind crime scene evidence

collection and analysis?

Applied Science (Forensic) can be studied as a

Subsidiary Diploma (equivalent of 1 A Level) over

one year. You can then progress onto the Diploma

(equivalent of 2 A Levels) in your second year.

(forensic science)

You will study general Applied Science units in

the first year. These cover Biology, Chemistry &

Physics

Do you want to learn more about

safety, scientific procedure and

legislation?

What will I learn?

How will I be

assessed?

What activities can I get involved in?

The College has lots of exciting enrichment and C.V

building opportunities including the chance to earn the

Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, learn a new skill, learn a

language, join a club, take up or develop a sport or take on

a new challenge. See the College Prospectus for further

information about what is on offer.

Facebook.com/birkenheadsixthformcollege @BSFC

tel: 0151 652 5575 email: enrol@bsfc.ac.ukExpect more from your sixth form

bsfc.ac.uk

Where does it lead?

There are opportunities for visits to interesting and

relevant places and exhibitions which bring classroom

learning to life. This has included Nottingham Galleries of

Justice and Liverpool Crown Court where we have observed

Court cases, a talk from a Forensic Fire Investigator from

Merseyside Fire and Rescue, a visit to HMP Altcourse and a

chance to take part in the investigation of a simulated

crime scene.

This course takes up two of your subject choices at college. You

will study both the Applied Science and Forensic Science units.

The Applied Science units cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

You must therefore have a strong interest in science to take on

this course.

There are no exams for this course. All assessment is through

set assignments which you will need to submit according to

strict deadlines.

After studying the Forensic Science Subsidiary

Diploma in your first year, subject to your grades,

you can then study Forensic Science (as two

subjects) in your second year of college & achieve

BTEC Level 3 Diploma Applied Science (Forensic

Science) which is equivalent to two A Levels.

Depending on your other subject choices, Applied

Science can provide a route in to careers in the

science industry e.g. as a technician in a laboratory,

environmental testing or in the police

force. It can also be studied alongside other Level 3

courses as a route into Higher Education. A variety

of apprenticeship programmes are also available.

Fundamentals of Science

Working in The Science Industry

Scientific Practical Techniques

Criminology

You will use microscopes to find out about the different

cells and tissues of the body. You will study chemical

reactions and bonding and investigate different types

of energy. You will explore the topic of scientific

communication and discover how scientific information

is communicated to other scientists and prepare your

own scientific report.

You will develop an understanding of the role played

by science technicians and other professionals who

work in a variety of scientific places and scientific

disciplines. You will look at what it is like being a

modern scientist and consider the importance of

working safely. You will also examine practices and

procedures followed in modern science laboratories

and how the use of ICT makes science workplaces

efficient and effective. You will design your own

laboratory to meet the needs of a general science

workplace.

You will select and use a variety of appropriate

equipment and instruments to carry out core

practical techniques. You will develop your ability to

test substances and materials using a range of

scientific instruments by carrying out different

activities. You will use cutting edge techniques such

as gel electrophoresis and practice every day

techniques such as the identification of biological

molecules.

You will explore how changes in criminology theory

have influenced the treatment of offenders by the

courts. By looking at historical changes, you will be

encouraged to ask whether the new policies to

control crime are indeed new and you will begin to

understand how such changes are related to

criminology.

Forensic Evidence Collection & Analysis

A major aspect of work of the Forensic Scientist is to

examine samples of evidence from a crime scene. You

will develop your knowledge and skills first hand by

taking part in a simulated crime scene investigation.

Criminal Psychology

You will examine the research methods employed in

clinical psychology. You will study the ethical issues

involved and have the opportunity to apply these

research methods to aspects of crime.

We have an extensive range of books available in the library

which provide as a great source of information for the

course. The BTEC textbook follows the specification closely,

so you can easily see what you have covered and quickly

find the information you need. ICT resources are available in

all teaching rooms.

The course is supported by the Learning Support team

and learning mentors and teaching staff operate an

‘open door’ policy.