Overview
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 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.
Why Forensic Science at LSBU?
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- You can study this course at the new London South Bank Technical college (LSBTC) in Nine Elms, London’s buzzing Zone 1.
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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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- On successful completion of the course, you can gain direct entry on the BSc (Hons) Forensic Science degree at London South Bank University.
| ModeFull-time | Duration1 year | Start dateSeptember | Application code5820 | Application method Direct to LSBU |
| ModePart-time | Duration2 years | Start dateSeptember | Application code5821 | Application method Direct to LSBU |
Location
London South Bank University student union is located at 103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA.
If you are visiting our Southwark Campus, you may wish to use our downloadable campus map (PNG File 466 KB). For information on accessibility, see our DisabledGo access guides.
Walk or bicycle
The University is in easy walking distance of underground and leading overground stations. We are only 20 minutes away from the Thames. We encourage walking and cycling and have bicycle racks on campus. Please check the Transport for London cycling website for London cycling maps and route planners.
By bus
LSBU is very well connected, and a large number of buses travel to and connect in the Elephant and Castle area from across London.
By train or tube
The Bakerloo and Northern lines stop at Elephant & Castle underground station, which is right next to campus. The closest rail stations are Elephant & Castle, London Waterloo and London Bridge. To plan your train journey, visit the National Rail website.
By car
London South Bank University does not provide public parking space. There is a limited amount of parking in the area, so we strongly advise using public transport.
Do consider the Congestion Charge if you are driving through London to reach the campus. Find out if you'll be crossing the Congestion Charge zone to reach our Southwark Campus.
TfL journey planner
You can travel to Southwark Campus by using public transport, plan your journey using the Transport for London journey planner.
Entry Level Requirements
- 5 GCSE qualifications at grade A*-C or 9-4 (to include Maths and English)
and
- 2 A-Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant science subject
or
Relevant Level 3 vocational qualification in a science-based discipline:
- Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science (MP) or Level 3 BTEC Diploma (120) in Applied Science (MP)
- an Access to Higher Education Diploma awarded by an approved further education institution
- or an international equivalent of the above (NARIC confirmation).
and
- related work experience
All students who are non-native English speakers and who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English, must demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to IELTS 5.5; Reading and Writing must be at 5.5 or equivalent.
Choose your country
Select country here:
Course status
United Kingdom
£
Tuition fees for home students
International
£
Tuition fees for international students
Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees
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Full-time
full-time
Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Applied Science (LSB Technical College) (FT) - Year 1
UK fee: £ International fee: £ AOS/LSBU code: 5820 Session code: 1FX00 Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Applied Science (LSB Technical College) (FT) - Year 1
UK fee: £ International fee: £ AOS/LSBU code: 5820 Session code: 1FX01 Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Applied Science (LSB Technical College) (FT) - Year 1
UK fee: £ International fee: £ AOS/LSBU code: 5820 Session code: 1FX02
Home/EU applicants
| Mode Full-time | Duration 1 year | Start date September | Application code 5820 | Application method Direct to LSBU |
| Mode Part-time | Duration 2 years | Start date September | Application code 5821 | Application method Direct to LSBU |
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.
You will study three core units:
- Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques
- Scientific Data Handling Approaches and Techniques
- Regulation and Quality in the Applied Sciences
And three specialised mandatory units:
- Cell Biology
- Fundamentals of Biochemistry
- Criminal investigation
You will also study 2 further specialist units as follows
- Anatomy and Human Physiology
- Analytical Chemistry
Careers
What to expect from your career
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).
Typical salaries
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).
Teaching and Assessment
Assessment
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.