Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 3 Diploma |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements |
Maths and English grade 5. Combined Science 66 or Triple Science 5 in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | 40 hours |
Is it for me?
This course - which is equivalent to three A Levels and widely recognised by universities and industry - will give you the skills and knowledge to progress into a range of different scientific disciplines.
Forensic Scientists are traditionally involved in the production of scientific evidence for use in courts of law to support the prosecution or defence in criminal and civil investigations.
Crime Scene Investigators examine crime scenes to gather forensic evidence that will ultimately lead to the detection and prosecution of criminals.
Both Forensic Scientists and Crime Scene Investigators are responsible for processing and categorising evidence that may be used in criminal investigations, including biological evidence. For both fields, you will need to demonstrate a core set of behaviours to be competent and successful in your future career.
You will learn how to work effectively, practice advanced scientific skills and improve IT abilities.
What you'll learn
- Foundation Knowledge of Biology, Chemistry and Physics
- Environmental Forensics
- Analytical Biology, Chemistry and Physics
- Forensic Traffic Collision Investigation
- Forensic Genetics
- Forensic Anthropology
- Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice
- Criminology
- Essential Skills including Problem Solving, Working with Others and ICT
- Work Experience, Employability and Careers
Equipment required for the course
Laboratory coat
Work experience placements
You will need to take part in a placement in a science-based industry for a minimum of 50 hours throughout the year.
Assessment
This course includes both internal assessments and external exams.
Further study
- Biomedical Science Extended Diploma Level 3
- Environmental Science Extended Diploma Level 3
Example careers
- Forensic Scientist
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Forensic Anthropologist
- Forensic Archaeologist
- Toxicologist
- Teacher/Lecturer
- Scientific Lab Technician
- Teaching Lab Technician
- Biomedical Scientist
- Analytical Chemist
- Detective
- Forensic Computer Analyst
- Intelligence Analyst
- Ballistics Expert
- DNA Analyst
- Trace Evidence Expert
- Anatomical Pathologist Technician
- Criminologist
- Psychologist
- Law
Days & times
Starting September 2025