Social Sciences Level 3

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. During this course you will explore four key approaches in psychology – social, cognitive, learning and biological – and apply these approaches to issues relevant to contemporary society.

You will develop knowledge, understanding and skills in the scientific process and in psychological research methodology through their own psychological research project. In the second year you will explore psychological approaches and theories related to lifestyle choices, unhealthy behaviours, and behavioural change, linking them to their specific contexts.

You will also explore the different theories used to explain criminal behaviour and the application of criminal and forensic psychology in the criminal justice system.

Students taking this qualification will study and achieve the 6 mandatory units, including 3 units that are externally assessed. 

The 6 mandatory units are:

• Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I
• Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
• Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills
• Unit 4: Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice
• Unit 5: Applications of Criminology
• Unit 6: Criminal Investigation Procedures in Practice 

Students choose 2 optional units from a group that has been designed to support progression to a range of sector-related courses in higher education and to link with relevant occupational areas. The optional units offer breadth and depth of topic areas that are relevant to the forensic and criminal investigation sector. These include forensic genetics and practical chemic analysis. 

• 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths

If you successfully complete this course, you will receive a Level 3 National Diploma in Forensic and Criminal Investigation and a Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology

Psychology

• Psychological Approaches and Applications
• Conducting Psychological Research
• Health Psychology
• Criminal and Forensic Psychology

Forensic and Criminal Investigation 

• Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I
• Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
• Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills
• Unit 4: Forensic Investigation Procedures in Practice
• Unit 5: Applications of Criminology
• Unit 6: Criminal Investigation Procedures in Practice 
• With 2 additional units

Please note, modules are subject to change.

• Internal and external assessed units

• Subject specific regional and national trips and visits
• Opportunities for fully funded international trips to the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Malta and Cyprus
• Various industry guest speakers including criminal psychologists and psychotherapy specialists
• Science masterclasses
• Trips to Universities including Edge Hill, University of Liverpool and University of Manchester
• University and industry placement preparation
• Study in our state-of-the-art laboratory in The School of Science

This qualification is primarily designed to support your progression to employment after further study at university. However, it also supports you if you choose to progress directly to employment, as the transferable knowledge and skills gained will give you an advantage when applying for a range of industry training programmes and/or Higher Apprenticeships.

Our students go onto University to study:

• BSc Criminology
• BSc Psychology
• BA Social Work
• BSc Forensic Science
• BSc Clinical Psychology

If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees.*

If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact Student Services who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.

*Exam and registration fees will be paid by the college. This is subject to satisfactory attendance and course completion