Forensic Science - Level 3 Extended Diploma

Forensic science is essentially the application of scientific principles for the resolution of legal disputes or as legal evidence to prove/disprove a crime. 

The aim is to provide impartial information which can be used to establish whether a crime has been committed and to evaluate physical evidence of a crime. This course provides a broad overview of the principles and techniques of forensic science, how evidence is analysed and interpreted, and how it is presented in court processes by following UK legislation.

Extended Diplomas have two one-year programmes. You need to finish the first year before moving on to the second.

This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit Diploma.

 Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma.

Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A Levels.

Topics covered can include:

• Principles of Science
• Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis
• Forensic Fire Investigation
• PhysiologyGenetics
• Forensic Archeology
• Criminal Investigation
• Procedures and Practices
• Criminology
• Criminal Psychology

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths and Science (Combined Science, or two individual Sciences) or an equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit or above

All applicants must have an interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

Assessment is continuous throughout the year through completing written assignments and projects as well as performing practical work that is assessed internally within the college. 

There will also be some written examinations, assessed externally via Pearson, the BTEC awarding body.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

This course will help you to move on to higher-level courses, such as a Bachelor of Science, or to pursue employment in the science industry.

Darren joined City and Islington College in September 2021. He began his teaching career in Further Education in February 2008 teaching Sport and Uniformed Protective Services subjects at Nescot College and East Surrey College for 11 years. Darren was a tutor for Uniformed Protective Services and supported the learners in completing their university applications.  Darren has also been a Head of Department for the Care Services including Public Services, Sport, and Forensic Science. 

Before going into teaching Darren worked in the South African Air Force as a Regimental Instructor and Training Officer.  He trained new recruits who joined the South African Air Force on military discipline, weapons training, and physical fitness.

Darren is a volunteer with the Royal Air Force Air Cadet (RAFAC) organisation. He is a commissioned officer.  Darren works as a Training Officer supporting young cadets in gaining knowledge and skills in subjects such as Youth First Aid, Airmanship and Expedition Skills.  He is also a qualified supervisor/assessor supporting young people on the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

Darren has got experience in teaching, citizenship, diversity, leadership, communication, teamwork, and expedition skills.

Darren is passionate about teaching and enjoys seeing the young learners grow in confidence, knowledge, and skills in the Uniformed Protective course. He is always willing to go the extra distance to support the learners in achieving their qualifications and progressing onto Higher Education and in employment.

Monalisa is a friendly, kind, and approachable Forensic Science Lecturer with PGCE and many years of experience teaching Chemistry and Biology to a variety of courses such as A Level, BTEC Levels 1, 2 and 3, GCSE and Higher National level diplomas. Monalisa not only teaches, but also assesses the exams from different awarding bodies such as Edexcel, OCR, and AQA and has a broad knowledge of exam requirements. 

Monalisa enjoys making science interesting by adding lots of practical elements during the lessons. Monalisa has also taught functional skills in Level 2 Maths and can therefore assist learners to apply maths elements while learning science. 

Monalisa has experience teaching in both academic and vocational qualifications and guides learners in a smooth transition from academic to vocational courses or vice versa. 

The teachers listed may change, these shown are an example of the teachers who teach on these programmes.