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Accredited Forensic Science Course

CPD UK & ICOES Accreditation | 50 CPD Points | Buy this course and avail of a FREE one-month membership to 200+ courses

International Open Academy

Summary

Price
Save 52%
£12 inc VAT (was £25)
Offer ends 01 May 2024
Study method
Online
Duration
50 hours · Self-paced
Access to content
60 days
Qualification
No formal qualification
CPD
50 CPD hours / points
CPD What's this?
Certificates
  • Proof of Completion - Free
  • Certificate of Achievement - £18.99
  • ICOES Digital Certificate - £23.99
  • ICOES Certificate - Hard Copy - £29.99
  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD) - £39.99
Additional info
  • Exam(s) / assessment(s) is included in price
1,241 students purchased this course

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Overview

If you’re considering a career in forensic science, forensic psychology, criminal psychology, criminal law, or crime writing, then our fascinating Forensic Science course is designed for you.

Our Forensic Science online course takes you behind the police tape and into the crime scene where you’ll discover how evidence is gathered, analysed and used to catch criminals.

With 5.5 million crimes being committed in England and Wales each year, there is a massive demand for people to work within the field of forensic science. You’ll be responsible for gathering evidence at a crime scene to bring criminals to justice.

KEY COURSE BENEFITS:

  • Access to course: 60 Days - Study at your own pace
  • Internationally-recognised CPD accredited course
  • Start learning straightaway from any laptop or mobile device in any country

Forensics is a fascinating subject working with bodily fluids, fingerprints and DNA to analyse a crime scene. Sign up for our Forensic Science certificate course to begin your journey discovering more about the important part that forensics plays in investigations.

CPD

50 CPD hours / points
Accredited by The CPD Certification Service

Course media

Description

Working within the forensics team, it’s your mission to ensure that crime doesn’t pay. By gathering evidence at a crime scene or analysing the material in the laboratory, you’ll be an important cog in the criminal justice system. Forensic science deals with crime scenes to find evidence to catch criminals. Forensic psychology studies human behaviour and crime.

Forensic science, forensic psychology and criminal psychology are powerful forces that are putting a new face on solving current cases and clearing up old cold cases. As you study our course, you’ll become more experienced about what forensics is. This will give you greater confidence in interviews and in applying for jobs within this field.

You will see how:

  • forensic science developed and its roles in police work and solving crimes
  • evidence such as blood and fingerprints can be analysed and used as evidence
  • to determine how long someone has been dead, even for a very long time
  • powerful DNA evidence is to catch a criminal
  • forensic scientists apply their expertise in court
  • forensic science has an impact on many exciting and varied roles
  • forensic science is used in criminal cases by studying our real-life criminal case studies

Our online Forensic Science course equips you with a new wealth of knowledge to prepare you for a new career in forensic science, forensic psychology or criminal psychology; improve your current job; enhance your resume; or help you understand your favourite crime book or TV show better. Not only that, but you can study in your own time, from home. Sign up now.

How is the Forensic Science course assessed?

There is a short multiple choice exam at the end of each module for you to take and you’ll know your score immediately. By studying Forensic Science online with IOA, you do not pay an extra fee for sitting an exam or have to wait for a set date to sit an exam.

Forensic Science Course Syllabus

Module 1: Historical Development And Role Of Forensic Sciences

  • Introduction to forensic sciences and basic principles
  • Special areas and contributions of the forensic sciences
  • Development of medico-legal investigation
  • Forensic pathology and toxicology

Module 2: The Crime Scene

  • Processing the crime scene
  • Reconstruction of the crime scene
  • Legal considerations of the crime scene
  • Using science to link crimes
  • The significance of physical evidence

Module 3: Fingerprinting

  • Fundamental principles of fingerprinting
  • Classification of fingerprints
  • Methods of detecting and preserving fingerprints
  • Digital imaging techniques
  • Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS)
  • Case study: product tampering and Stella Nickell

Module 4: DNA Analysis

  • The nature of DNA
  • Collecting DNA samples
  • DNA typing
  • Analysis of DNA evidence
  • The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)
  • Case study: the exoneration of Earl Washington

Module 5: Toxicology

  • What is forensic toxicology?
  • Techniques used in toxicology
  • The significance of toxicological findings
  • Toxicology and identification of poisons
  • Toxicology and identification of drugs

Module 6: Arson And Explosion Investigations

  • The chemistry of fire
  • Investigating the fire scene
  • Type of explosions
  • Collecting and analysing explosives
  • Case study: Is Daniel Dougherty guilty of arson?

Module 7: Serological Evidence

  • The nature of blood
  • Stain patterns of blood
  • Forensic analysis of blood, semen, and other bodily fluids
  • Collection and analysis of rape evidence

Module 8: Firearms

  • Forensic ballistics
  • Gunpowder residue
  • Bullet and cartridge casing comparisons
  • Striations and tool marks
  • Gunshot wounds
  • Case study: family murderer Christopher Vaughn proven guilty

Module 9: Time Of Death Determinations

  • Stages of decomposition
  • Body temperature calculations
  • Stomach contents
  • Decomposed skeletonized remains
  • Forensic entomology (insects)
  • Case study: the murder of Leanne Tiernan

Module 10: The Forensic Scientist As Expert Witness In Court

  • Preparation for testimony
  • Testimony and cross-examination
  • Admissibility of scientific evidence
  • Ethical considerations

Module 11: Collaboration In Criminal Investigations

  • Working with detectives
  • Working with the forensic psychology team
  • Working with the prosecutor or defense
  • Conducting research
  • Lecturing and consulting

Who is this course for?

  • Career-minded individuals interested in a career in forensic science, forensic psychology, criminal psychology or detective work
  • People with an interest in science and crime
  • Anyone wanting a better understanding of criminal investigations and court cases
  • Fans of crime shows and detective stories who want to get ‘behind the scenes’
  • Anyone seeking an intriguing and interesting insight into another aspect of the criminal justice system
  • Employees or volunteers within the justice system
  • Writers who want to publish a crime or detective novel or series

Requirements

International Open Academy's Forensic Science course is designed for anyone with an interest in learning. No formal qualifications are required to study with us.

Our courses are suitable if you want to learn new skills, start a new career, or if you’re already working in a particular industry and wish to upgrade your talents and enhance your resume.

Career path

  • This course could inspire you to study further to pursue a fascinating career in forensic science, forensic psychology, criminal psychology, law or detective work
  • Start a career within law enforcement
  • Elevate your crime writing to the next level
  • Start a blog or podcast about Forensics
  • Write a blockbuster crime-solving TV show
  • Look into a career working with offenders or the victims of crime

Questions and answers

No questions or answers found containing ''.

Janelle asked:

Does it come with a certificate?

Answer:

Yes, once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion issued by the course provider.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Theophilus asked:

what is the level of the certificate and Can one work with it or attend a higher institution

Answer:

We offer specialist courses and upon graduation, you will receive a certificate of completion. The Forensic Science course is comparable to a level 3.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Michalis asked:

How much does the whole course cost?

Answer:

The price includes the Forensic Science course, unlimited access to the course content and a certificate of completion issued by the course provider.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
OLA JOHN asked:

Does it involve carrying out of practicals or mainly theoretical?

Answer:

After each module of your Forensic Science course, there is a short exam which includes multiple choice questions. The final grade of your course will be the average of the eleven modules.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
chris asked:

just a quick question on the Forensic Science course what do i get at the end of it all ie cert or can i take it further to uni ?

Answer:

Yes, once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion issued by IOA.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Sinead asked:

Hi is this course for beginners level, and is the £10 the only payment I will make

Answer:

Yes, the Forensic Science course is an introductory course. The offer includes the full course, lifetime access to the course content, and a certificate of completion issued by the International Open Academy.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Jade asked:

What level is this? Is it level 3 or 4?

Answer:

Once you complete your Forensic Science course you will gain a pdf certificate of completion and is comparable to a level 3.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Ngurang Achung asked:

1.:Who will conduct the test/examination and when? 2. Whether this course can be completed before 6 months?

Answer:

After each module of your Forensic Science course, there is a short exam section which includes multiple choice questions. Our course is entirely online and self-paced.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
paul asked:

Do you issue transcript for the course to detail every module taken?.

Answer:

Hello Paul, Thank you for your question, you can order the transcript from the virtual campus.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
louise asked:

So we require any books for this coarse to learn from

Answer:

Hi Louise, Thank you for your query. Our courses, including the "Forensic Science" course are fully online. All you need to start and complete your course is a device with a common operating system and a reliable access to internet. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Eve asked:

Hello, Roughly how long is each module expected to take? Thanks

Answer:

There's no time limit for completing the course since you have lifetime access to the course content. You can complete it at your own pace.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
mohmoud asked:

how can i apply this? how can i get lessons?

Answer:

Our Forensic Science is available to start as soon as you purchase it with REED. Our course is entirely online and once is completed you will receive a Certificate of completion.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Sar11292 asked:

What happenes if you fail an exam? Can you retake it & would it be free of charge?

Answer:

If you have failed the module (received < 55% mark), you only need to re-sit enough marks within that failed module to achieve a pass rate of 55%. Within the exam section, you will see a "re-sit" button instead of a “check-results” button on each page. Please note that there is always one re-sit per exam free of charge, however, you’ll be charged an additional fee only if and when you re-sit the same exam again, after the free re-sit.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Val asked:

How do you start the course you've bought and where do you put in your preference for printed modules

Answer:

Thank you for your interest in our Forensic Science course. Once the purchase is made you will be contacted by our customer support team with all the relevant information for you to get started with your studies on the world of criminal law.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Adnan asked:

As I'm at university and have other coursework If I purchase this can I start the course in may when it's my holiday

Answer:

There's no time limit for completing the course since you have lifetime access to the course content. You can complete on your own pace.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Connor asked:

What qualifications do you get from this course

Answer:

Once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion that will definitely improve your CV and therefore increase the chances of getting employment or to start a career in law enforcement or criminal law.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
terry asked:

do you only have 50 hours to complete it or can you take as long as you like

Answer:

There's no time limit for completing the Forensic Science course since we offer unlimited access to the course content.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Asta asked:

How do you activate a purchased course?

Answer:

Once you complete your purchase of the Forensic Science course you will be contacted with all the relevant information get started with your course.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Christine asked:

Will this course enable me to get a job within the forensics field or would I still need further education?

Answer:

Once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion that will definitely improve your CV and therefore increase the chances of employment or to start a career in law enforcement or criminal law.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Ehsan asked:

How long do students have in order to complete the course?

Answer:

There's no time limit for completing your Forensic Science course since we offer unlimited access to the course content.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Jo asked:

Is this equivalent to UK level 3 or above?

Answer:

Once you complete your Forensic Science course you will gain a pdf certificate of completion and is comparable to a level 3.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Jyothi asked:

after completing this course what type of jobs i will get

Answer:

Once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion that will definitely improve your CV and therefore increase the chances of getting employment.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Angela.Link asked:

Will a “n Accredited Certificate of successful completion of this Course be given at the end?

Answer:

Yes, once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion issued by IOA.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Wayne Gilbert asked:

what other costs are involed.what is the certification,is this a book or other paraphenalia.where do I go after cert.ie dip.foundation,BSc or MSc

Answer:

The price includes the Forensic Science course, unlimited access to the course content and a certificate of completion issued by the course provider.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Chrysa Eleanor Victor asked:

Hi, I would like to know all about forensics courses offered and would like to know how to apply for this course mentioned in your instituition. Thx.

Answer:

You can purchase the Forensic Science directly with REED. Once you do you will be contacted by our customer support team with information to start your course.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Luis asked:

Hi, this course works in a laptop with windows 10 installed? Thank you.

Answer:

Our Forensic Science can be accessed and completed using any device or operating system.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Amanda asked:

Is this course available for a 16 year old school leave?

Answer:

Hi Amanda, Thank you for your query. There is no age restriction to avail of our courses. However, if the student is under 16 and through Article 8 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), in that case, we are required by law to obtain the authorization of the parent or legal guardian to offer services to the minor. We must also verify the legal guardian's identity by giving consent. You can reach out to our support team, and we will help you with the process. Kind regards, IOA team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Susana asked:

What is the minimum age to do this course? My daughter is fourteen and is interested. Thanks

Answer:

Hi Susana, Thank you for your query. There is no age restriction to avail of our courses. However, if the student is under 16 and through Article 8 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), in that case, we are required by law to obtain the authorization of the parent or legal guardian to offer services to the minor. We must also verify the legal guardian's identity by giving consent. You can reach out to our support team, and we will help you with the process. Kind regards, IOA team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Tshenolo Oteng asked:

Is the qualification diploma or certificate? Can I get transcript afterwards?

Answer:

Hi, Thank you for your query. We offer high-quality training, but these are not degrees or diplomas. Our programs benefit individuals on many levels and aim to support learners in several stages of their learning process. Our courses are accredited by ICOES and CPD Certification Service, meaning that the course counts towards the individuals' CPD hour records. I invite you to look at the course syllabus on REED to learn more about its content. Kind regards, IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Paige Woods asked:

Is there a time limit to do this course? for example it runs out after 60 days

Answer:

Hello Paige, once you register you will have one year to activate the course. Once activated you will have 60 days to complete it and in case you need additional time you can always purchase an extension.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Demba S. Jammeh asked:

I am director forensic investigation & would like to facilitate diploma in forensic for some officers. Kindly sent information on application and cost

Answer:

Hello, Please feel free to contact REED's contact center in order to get assistance with this matter.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Cosimo asked:

Is there any chance for practical training with the course? For instance: blood sample or fingerprint recognition.

Answer:

Hi Cosimo, thank you for your query. The "Forensic Science" course is a reading-based course and has no practical training at the moment. I invite you to have a look at the course syllabus on REED to learn more about the course content. Please feel free to reach out to our customer support team through the contact page on our website for further information in this regard. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Amy asked:

After I have paid the £25 for the course is there any other costs that would be involved?

Answer:

Hi Amy, Thank you for your query. The "Forensic Science" course price includes a lifetime access to the course and a PDF certificate delivered by IOA upon course completion. So there are no additional costs for you to complete the course, receive your ceritificate and refer back to the course whenever you need to. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Jane asked:

Does the exam show your mark at the end of each module and can you retake to increase your score multiple times

Answer:

Hi Jane, Thank you for your query. The exam shows your mark at the end of each module. However, you can only retake an exam if you fail it. The minimum score you need to receive to pass is 55% per module. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Lucy Johnson asked:

Will I be able to get a job in forensic science straight away after doing this course?

Answer:

Hi Lucy, Thank you for your query. Our "Forensic Science" course is the perfect foundation for anyone who's considering a career in forensic science, forensic psychology, criminal psychology, criminal law, or crime writing. I invite you to have a look at the Course Syllabus on REED to learn more about the course content and the opportunities it opens. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Deborah asked:

Cam I haver ir 100% online ? I am in Brazil

Answer:

Hi Deborah, thank you for your query. Our "Forensic Science" course is fully online, and as you have a lifetime access, you can study at your own pace. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Jasmine asked:

Is this the best course to start of with for beginners

Answer:

Hi Jasmine, Thank you for your query. The "Forensic Science" course is the perfect foundation for anyone who's considering a career in forensic science. I invite you to have a look at the course syllabus on REED to learn more about the course content. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Samantha asked:

I have a 2:1 BSc degree in Chemistry which included forensic modules. Is there a higher level qualification to suit a undergraduate like myself?

Answer:

Hi Samantha, Thank you for your query. According to the UK standards, our "Forensic Science" course is comparable to a level 3. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
louise asked:

I get paid 21st this offer is on till 21st so can I still apply on that date at that price please Thank you

Answer:

Hi Louise, Thank you for your query. For all your queries regarding the payment, please take the time to reach out to REED's Customer Support Team to be properly assisted. Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Jennifer asked:

Is this course recognized in the United States? I did not see it listed on this specific course.

Answer:

Hi Jennifer, Thank you for query. Our certification is international and is accredited by the International Council for Online Educational Standards, ICOES, and CPD ( CPD UK). Kaoutar - IOA Team

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Paula asked:

Hi, I was just wondering if there is any tutor support with this particular course. Thank you.

Answer:

Our Forensic Science course is fully online and self-paced. Although you won't have a tutor you can contact our customer support team for any questions or issues.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Abigail Clow asked:

Can you please let me know if you are awarded a diploma after successfully completing this course.

Answer:

Yes, once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion issued by IOA.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Amir H asked:

what calcifications do I need to start this course? with kind regards Amir A

Answer:

You don't need previous knowledge, just an interest in the world of law enforcement or criminal law.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
shoulders asked:

Do you receive any form of certificate from the course?

Answer:

Yes, once you complete your Forensic Science course, you will receive a certificate of completion issued by IOA.

This was helpful. Thank you for your feedback.
Ask a question

Certificates

Proof of Completion

Digital certificate - Included

Certificate of Achievement

Digital certificate - £18.99

ICOES Digital Certificate

Digital certificate - £23.99

ICOES Certificate - Hard Copy

Hard copy certificate - £29.99

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Digital certificate - £39.99

Reviews

4.7
Course rating
91%
Service
95%
Content
97%
Value

Legal information

This course is advertised on reed.co.uk by the Course Provider, whose terms and conditions apply. Purchases are made directly from the Course Provider, and as such, content and materials are supplied by the Course Provider directly. Reed is acting as agent and not reseller in relation to this course. Reed's only responsibility is to facilitate your payment for the course. It is your responsibility to review and agree to the Course Provider's terms and conditions and satisfy yourself as to the suitability of the course you intend to purchase. Reed will not have any responsibility for the content of the course and/or associated materials.

FAQs

Study method describes the format in which the course will be delivered. At Reed Courses, courses are delivered in a number of ways, including online courses, where the course content can be accessed online remotely, and classroom courses, where courses are delivered in person at a classroom venue.

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development. If you work in certain professions or for certain companies, your employer may require you to complete a number of CPD hours or points, per year. You can find a range of CPD courses on Reed Courses, many of which can be completed online.

A regulated qualification is delivered by a learning institution which is regulated by a government body. In England, the government body which regulates courses is Ofqual. Ofqual regulated qualifications sit on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), which can help students understand how different qualifications in different fields compare to each other. The framework also helps students to understand what qualifications they need to progress towards a higher learning goal, such as a university degree or equivalent higher education award.

An endorsed course is a skills based course which has been checked over and approved by an independent awarding body. Endorsed courses are not regulated so do not result in a qualification - however, the student can usually purchase a certificate showing the awarding body's logo if they wish. Certain awarding bodies - such as Quality Licence Scheme and TQUK - have developed endorsement schemes as a way to help students select the best skills based courses for them.
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