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This is a practical, work-based course designed in partnership with businesses across London and co-developed with London South Bank University.
You will be taught in a realistic work environment with access to industry-driven laboratories and digital learning spaces and get to perform experiments with real-world applications, using industry-standard equipment, and be taught how to scientifically analyse your results.
You can visit local projects and workplaces as part of your course as well as benefit from wider services and support at London South Bank University.
Forensic science, combining science and the law, is an exciting and rewarding career path to go down, with many different routes and areas of specialisation. Highly skilled, well-trained, and qualified Forensic Scientists and Technicians are constantly sought-after by employers around the globe.
This one-year Higher National Certificate, Level 4 qualification in Forensic Science is an advanced, technical qualification co-developed with London South Bank University (LSBU) and employers, delivered in a supportive Technical College environment with contemporary facilities.
Gaining this industry-led qualification not only provides you with a direct route to Higher Education, including direct entry to London South Bank University’s second year Forensic Science Bachelor of Science degree, but also equips you with the specialised scientific knowledge and skills needed to fast-track your career progression in Forensic Science and related disciplines such as health sciences.
Please note: this course is subject to final awarding body approval and validation. Please apply as normal. For more information contact Lambeth College.
The course offers students a broad introduction to the forensic science and professional laboratory science via mandatory units, while allowing for the acquisition of specialist skills and experience through specialist forensic science modules. Students will gain a wide range of sector knowledge tied to practical skills gained in evidence-based practice, personal research, self-study, directed study and workplace learning and experience.
Assessment is continuous throughout the course, with a combination of written assignments, external examination, practical tasks (both in the laboratory and in the field), presentations, time constraint assignments.
The assessment is criterion-referenced, and all units will be individually graded as ‘pass,’ ‘merit’ or ‘distinction.’
Both oral and written feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.
This course could lead to direct employment in a variety of science-related industries and roles (influenced your selected pathway), including Laboratory Technician, Research Technician, Technical Support Chemist / Biologist, Quality Support Technician, Manufacturing Technician, Science Technician, Technologist, Instrumentation Technician and Product Development Technician; or give you the opportunity to progress straight to Higher Education.
After successfully passing the Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Applied Sciences, you may wish to consider progressing to Higher Education, including direct entry to the second year of London South Bank University’s Forensic Science degree. You may also consider one of London South Bank University’s other degree courses (additional qualifications may be required).
After a few years' experience forensic scientists can be called to court as a reporting officer. This means you need to concisely and confidently explain to the court what you have found. Salaries after three years' experience are usually around £25,000-£30,000, with senior roles paying around £50,000 (Prospects).
LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:
We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.
You will need the following:
If you do not meet the entry criteria above, we also review any previous skills, knowledge or experience you have gained outside of your education and are happy to talk through any extenuating circumstances you feel relevant.
If English is your second language and you have not undertaken your final two years of schooling in English, you must demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to IELTS 5.5; Reading and Writing must be at 5.5 or equivalent.
Visit UCAS for guidance on the tariff.
Choose your country
| Mode | Duration | Start date | Application code | Application method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 1 year | September | 5820 | Apply now |
| Full-time | 1 year | September | 004F | Apply now |
International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.
Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.
International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.
£7500
Tuition fees for home students
£N/A
Tuition fees for international students
Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.
| UK fee: £7500 | International fee: £ |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5820 | Session code: 1FX00 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £7500 |
| International: £N/A |
| UK fee: £7500 | International fee: £ |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5820 | Session code: 1FX01 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £7500 |
| International: £N/A |
| UK fee: £7500 | International fee: £ |
| AOS/LSBU code: 5820 | Session code: 1FX02 |
|
Total course fee for this location/stream: * The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees. |
| UK: £7500 |
| International: £N/A |
For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.
Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by reading the UKCISA regulations.
See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 630 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 775 KB).
The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.
The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees to reflect increased costs of delivery and to maintain an a high-quality student experience. This increase would be no more than Consumer Prices Index (CPI) increases plus 5%.
