Monday 11th May 2006
FORENSIC SCIENCE QUALIFICATION NOW OFFERED AT CALDERDALE COLLEGE

Fans of CSI now have the chance to follow a career in forensic science themselves with a new two-year course at Calderdale College in Francis Street.

The BTEC Diploma in Forensic Science, on offer at the college from September, is equivalent to three A-levels. It is targeted mainly at year 11 school leavers but is also available full or part time for mature students, some of whom may be eligible for financial assistance.

Students will follow five core applied science units with thirteen specialist forensic science units including chemical and physical forensics, criminal psychology, fire and traffic accident investigation and criminal investigation procedures.

“Careers in forensic science have become very high profile with the success of TV shows like ‘CSI’ and ‘Waking the Dead’ and we anticipate that this new post-GCSE course will be popular”, said Calderdale College science tutor Julie Jackson. “It’s a practical, work-related course which can be followed up with a degree in forensic science, on offer at Huddersfield University as well as further afield. Students could also choose to go straight into employment as a science technician in areas such as the chemical industry or pathology labs”

“Forensic scientists spend most of their time in the lab doing straightforward analysis”, she added “but they do go out to collect evidence at crime scenes, work with the police and frequently give evidence in court. As impartial witnesses, their identification of textile fibres, body fluids or plant and animal materials can support either the case for the prosecution or defence. Forensic science can be a rewarding and fascinating subject and we’re very pleased to be able to offer it on the doorstep, here at Calderdale College.”

A series of free taster sessions for year 11s, including a Murder, Mystery Day, is planned at the college for the week beginning 26 June. Details of the tasters and the Forensic Science BTEC course is available from the college’s information team on 01422 399399.