Forensic science is a crucial part of crime scene investigation, using scientific techniques to analyse and piece together the evidence to be presented during a court case and help solve the crime.
Biotechnology explores how some of these techniques, and others, can be used to harness biological processes for use in industry. This includes interesting topics like vaccine production, DNA analysis and genetic engineering.
This SCQF Level 6 course is a great stepping stone to further study with NESCol via the HNC/D Applied Science which can lead to a range of exciting careers or direct entry to year 3 of a large range of degree programmes.
The SCQF Level 6 Forensic Science & Biotechnology course offers both theoretical and hands-on, practical learning across a diverse range of interesting topics. It is similar to our SCQF Level 6 Applied Science but has some exciting differences.
During this course, you’ll learn about and try out forensic techniques such as blood typing, blood spatter examination, fingerprinting, gunshot residue testing and DNA analysis.
You’ll cover state-of-the-art techniques including cloning, stem cell technology and using bioreactors. You will also get hands-on with biotechnological techniques such as growing bacteria or yeast in the lab and investigating the activity of enzymes and how they can be used in industry to make everyday products.
Everything you need to know before applying to this course.
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Forensic Science & Biotechnology (SCQF Level 6)
If English is not your first language, please view the specific English language requirements for this course.
If you are studying a full-time non-advanced course (below HNC level), you may be entitled to funding.
You can apply for a full-time course online or using a paper form.
Open Days are a great way to find out more about this course and what it’s like to study at NESCol. You will see facilities, meet lecturers and get a feel for life as a student.
Our next Open Day will take place on 15 March 2025.
NESCol can provide extra support to students who have additional support needs, including:
You may be eligible for additional funding to support the cost of living, including travel costs, cost of materials, and childcare.
Find out more about the types of funding and whether you are eligible here
This course is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme. This means that you are required to have access to your own laptop computer, netbook or similar device in class each day that you are in college.
This may be funded or part-funded by a bursary, if you are eligible to receive one.
Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to several universities across Scotland and strong relationships with industry employers.
On successful completion of this course, you can progress to the following courses at North East Scotland College:
You would need to undertake further study at HNC/D level to progress to a range of university degrees.
“One of my highlights so far has been getting the chance to become an Executive Officer with the Students’ Association.”
“I now have qualifications and I’ve found a rewarding career that I love. I’d recommend the Highers course at NESCol to anyone who wants options for entry to a wide range of university degrees. “
“Studying has been such a positive experience for me, challenging myself to learn new things when physically I’ve been limited has undoubtedly been rewarding for my mental wellbeing. I’m looking forward to learning more, achieving my degree and perhaps using it to go into teaching.”
“I’m really glad I did the 2 + 2 Degree link with NESCol as I found myself well prepared with my lab techniques. Last year we had a practical research methods module and I found that a lot of the skills I learnt during my time at College were applicable and really helped me. I achieved an A grade for the unit and I attribute that to my time at NESCol. “
“The lecturers have been great – they are really approachable if you’re stuck with anything or want to ask questions. They have a wide range of industry experience and are very willing to share this with their students.”
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
You can apply for a place on this course by completing an online application form, which you can access using the ‘Apply Online’ button. Once completed, this will be received by our Admissions Team who will then process your application.
Completed forms should be signed and returned to us at the following freepost address:
The Student Information & Admissions Manager
North East Scotland College
FREEPOST RTJJ-TXBA-AEZS
Aberdeen City Campus
Gallowgate
Aberdeen
Scotland
UK AB25 1BN
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to complete an enrolment form. In completing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
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