HSDC is delighted to announce the relaunch of two Level 3 Applied Science courses at its
South Downs Campus from September 2026, offering students vital pathways into
science-based careers through highly practical, career-focused study.
The relaunched programmes include Forensic & Criminal Investigation, and Biomedical
Science, both of which are two-year courses designed to develop scientific competency
alongside the workplace skills essential for progression into employment, apprenticeships or
higher education.
The Forensic course is a dynamic and highly specialised programme which provides a
robust foundation in advanced scientific principles while preparing learners for the practical
realities of modern investigative work. In their first year, students will explore a broad range
of subjects including practical scientific procedures and techniques, forensic photography,
physiology and scientific investigative skills, whilst their second year will see them tackle the
applications of criminology, forensic genetics, anthropology and a range of other exciting
modules.
This course has been designed with clear career pathways in mind for HSDC’s students,
providing an excellent springboard for progression into a range of roles including crime
scene investigator, forensic scientist and DNA analyst.
Alongside this, the Biomedical course is also relaunching at South Downs, providing a
strong foundation for students interested in medical, biomedical and laboratory-based
careers. This course covers core scientific principles whilst emphasising the development of
problem-solving, research and communication skills valued by both universities and
employers.
This pathway includes specialist practical content such as quantitative analysis,
spectroscopy, chromatography, microscopy and aseptic techniques, ensuring students
develop skills directly relevant to healthcare and laboratory environments. Successful
learners can progress into careers in biomedical science, healthcare, laboratory science or
continue their studies at higher education level.
Both courses also offer the opportunity for students to complete a substantial work
placement, further strengthening their employability, professional conduct and real-world
work experience.
Dave Popely is the course manager for these Applied Sciences, and spoke proudly about the outcomes students can expect from studying them:
“Previous students from these courses have obtained university places studying Dentistry, Veterinary science, paramedic science and even medicine in the Navy!”
