L3 Nat Fou Dip Applied Science (Analytical & Forensic Science) - Full L3 - L3 Adult Offer - 25/26

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Mode of study

Full Time

Start date

08/09/2025

Entry requirements

A minimum of 4 GCSEs grade 9 - 4 including maths and English or a full Level 2 with a merit profile and grades 9 - 4 in English & maths.

Teaching staff

By studying Analytical and Forensic Science at Oaklands College you will be exposed to a broad spectrum of sciences, a variety of practical activities and develop your problem-solving skills. You will be taught by experienced and qualified lecturers whose areas of expertise include Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Forensic. They are supportive and motivational tutors who will do their best to make your time at Oaklands enjoyable, interesting, and an excellent learning experience. You will also receive support in finding employment or a university place of your choosing.

Course Code

FD3SCA1F/1

Duration

1-Year

Location

Welwyn Garden City Campus

Awarding body

Pearson Education Ltd (Formerly EDEXCEL)

Assessment

As this is a vocational course you will be assessed mostly by course work which you need to pass. However, there are some units assessed by external exam. All internally assessed units consist of a series of assignments and are awarded at pass, merit, or distinction level. These cover a range of tasks including practical activities, written assignments, presentations, scientific reports, and portfolios of evidence. You will need to be very organised and keep up to date with all the coursework. Similarly, exam units will have written tasks. Your overall grade will be determined by the average of all units studied.

About the course

The Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Applied Science (Analytical and Forensic Science) is a one-year course progressing to the Extended Diploma in year two. It is suitable for students who prefer a more vocational and practical-oriented study that covers a considerable breadth of subject specialisms. The Extended Diploma (Analytical and Forensic Science) is equivalent to 3 A-levels and this qualification is recognised by universities. It is a very popular course for those who are keen on a career in science-based field and want to pursue a degree in a science discipline such as biomedical science, biological science, pharmaceutical sciences, Forensic Science, Criminal investigation or a degree in healthcare. Students who wish to progress to university are fully supported during their two years of study with us. Students are also supported to progress onto an apprenticeship within the field if this is their preferred choice.

Career options

On completion of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Analytical and Forensic Science, you will have the ability to apply to university or for apprenticeships to further develop your skills in these fascinating subjects. You will receive support for applications to university, apprenticeships, or work, with training to pursue your career in the range of jobs associated with Applied science and Forensic science. Potential careers include Drug Researcher Forensic Scientist, Fingerprint Officer, Laboratory Technician, Forensic Data Analyst, Chemical Analyst, Biomedical Scientist, or Reporting Scientist.

On completion of the Applied Science course you will have the ability to apply to university to further develop your skills in this fascinating subject. You will receive support for applications to university or work with training to pursue your career in the range of jobs associated with Forensic Investigation.

Potential careers:

Forensic Scientist
Fingerprint Officer
Crime Scene Investigator
Police Officer
Laboratory Technician
Forensic Photographer

Course Content - What will I learn?

This course applies scientific principles for use in the Applied and Forensic Science field. The Level 3 BTEC extended diploma is equivalent to three A levels and will include units such as Laboratory techniques and their applications and Practical scientific procedures and techniques, Principles and the Application of Science, and Scientific and Investigation Skills, in addition, a wider range of optional specialist topics including Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Microbiology and Microbiological techniques, Physiology of Human Body Systems, Diseases and Infections, Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Practical Chemical Analysis, Forensic Evidence, collection and Analysis and Astronomy and Space Science, and will also have opportunity to conduct an investigative research project.

You must have a grade 4 or above in GCSE English, Maths, and Science or a full level 2 with a Merit grade. This course is an alternative to A-levels, for those who wish to excel in their chosen scientific field. Students will be expected to undertake work experience in related scientific organisations. Students can access 1 to 1 study skills support from the LRC Learning Coaches, and learning mentors support students in developing other soft skills that are key for employment and Higher Education.

Please contact us to find out if you require any specific equipment for this particular course.

As this is a vocational course you will be assessed mostly by course work which you need to pass. However, there are some units assessed by external exam. All internally assessed units consist of a series of assignments and are awarded at pass, merit, or distinction level. These cover a range of tasks including practical activities, written assignments, presentations, scientific reports, and portfolios of evidence. You will need to be very organised and keep up to date with all the coursework. Similarly, exam units will have written tasks. Your overall grade will be determined by the average of all units studied.