Applied Science (Biomedical/Forensic Science)

This course is studied on its own and cannot be combined with other courses.

Are you passionate about science and want to develop your skills in a course covering a range of scientific disciplines? Are you inspired by the television series Criminal Minds? This exciting, practical course will equip you with a range of scientific skills such as criminal psychology, as well as knowledge of police and forensic procedures. It is ideal if you are interested in a full time rigorous Science course with a level of demand equivalent to A Level, but mainly assessed by coursework. You will be aspirational and wanting to develop a career in an area such as biomedical, applied or forensic science.

In your first year you will study the Foundation Diploma progressing to the Extended Diploma in your second year. You will learn by attending lectures, workshops, practical exercises, attending mock scenes of crime, visiting forensic laboratories and carrying out assignments. Assessment is by a combination of exams and assignments.

Choose this course if you are interested in a full time rigorous Science course with a level of demand equivalent to A Level, but mainly assessed more by coursework. You will be aspirational and wanting to develop a career in an area such as biomedical or forensic science.

You will develop your employability skills and engage in work experience. You will also take additional maths support lessons leading to the Level 3 Certificate in Maths, equivalent to an AS Level. This has enabled previous learners to gain better offers from top universities and employers.

What topics will I study? 

You will study 16 units during the Extended Diploma, to include:

Core units:

• Fundamental principles and applications of all three sciences
• Practical scientific procedures and techniques
• Science investigation skills, lab techniques and their uses across the sciences
• Lab techniques and their application
• Investigative project into a specialist area of your choice
• Contemporary issues in science

Specialist units:

• Forensic evidence collection and analysis
• Genetics and genetic engineering
• Biomedical science
• Forensic fire investigation
• Forensic traffic collision investigation

The above list of units may be subject to change.

You will:

• Look at the principals and applications of science
• Use practical scientific procedures and techniques, particularly in Biology and Chemistry
• Develop and understand science investigation skills and lab techniques and their application
• Carry out an investigative project
• Consider contemporary issues in science 
• Enhance your research skills and learn how to reference your research for assignments
• Use a dedicated forensic science lab
• Enjoy visits to several universities and employers
• Attend careers fairs and be encouraged to undertake work experience

Next steps: Successful students can continue their studies with many different university degrees such as Biomedical Science courses, those supporting NHS-related careers or Forensic Science. Similar proportions of students progress to university from this BTEC course as from our A Level science routes and we have had progression into Medicine and Veterinary Science pathways. Alternatively, you may seek employment or an Apprenticeship in a variety of roles, including laboratory technician, crime scene investigator and the police or fire service.

You will need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths and two Sciences (or Double Award in Science). Success at the end of year one in the Foundation Diploma is required to progress on to year 2.

You will have access to fully equipped laboratories and PCs with a crime scene area as well as access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC).

There is a resource fee which covers items such as lab coats, safety goggles, and visits to scientific workplaces.