Programme Specification Programme Title and Name of Award Professional Qualifications / Accreditation FdSc Forensic Science N/A Academic Level Level 5 Total Credits 240 UCAS Code F410 JACS Code F410 The University s standard criteria for admissions apply. Please refer to the Applicant Information pages of the University website for more information. For APL, please refer to the University website. The normal entry qualifications for the FdSc Forensic Science are:- Grade C or above in GCSEs in Mathematics, English and Science or equivalent. Criteria for Admission to the Programme Minimum 48 UCAS tariff points including an A Level (or Level 3 equivalent) in a Science subject. UCAS tariff points are subject to review on an annual basis. Conditional acceptance can be given to applicants who have yet to gain these qualifications. All applicants are interviewed. Detailed criteria for admission to this programme can be found on the programme webpage: https://www.southport.ac.uk Teaching Institution Owning Department Programme delivered in conjunction with Principal Mode of Delivery Pattern of Delivery Southport College Department of Science, Natural Resources and Outdoor studies N\A Blended learning a combination of face to face delivery and online resources. Full time Part time infill into the full time programme can be discussed at interview. All rights including copyright in the content of this programme are owned or controlled by the University of Cumbria. Except as otherwise expressly permitted under copyright law or by the University of Cumbria, the content of the programme may not be copied, duplicated, reproduced, republished, posted, distributed or broadcast in any way without the written permission of the University of Cumbria
Delivery Site(s) Programme Length Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR) Exit Awards Southport College s site will be the delivery location as articulated in the Memorandum of Co-operation. If a business need arises to offer the programme at another site, this will be discussed with the University s Collaborative Provision Team. Full-time standard registration period 2 years Maximum registration period 7 years Upon successful completion of this programme, you may receive a Diploma Supplement/Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR). CertHE Forensic Science Programme Features The FdSc Forensic Science programme is aligned to the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Forensic Science, the National Occupational Standards for Forensic Science and the following component standards of The Forensic Science Society:- Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence Crime Scene Investigation Laboratory Analysis. The Codes of Practice and Conduct from the Forensic Science Regulator have also informed module content. As such, the programme:- provides you with the skills and knowledge needed for employment; is up to date and fit for purpose; has been designed with employers specifically in mind. In addition, the foundation degree has been aligned to the QAA Foundation Degree qualification benchmark and the attributes of employer involvement, accessibility, articulation and progression, flexibility and partnership have been incorporated. On successful completion of the FdSc Forensic Science you will be eligible to you will be eligible to progress onto the BSc (Hons) Forensic Science top-up at the University of Cumbria, Carlisle Campus. Aims of the Programme The overall aims of the Programme are: The overall aims of the programme are to enable you to: 1. develop an enthusiasm for forensic science and have an intellectually stimulating and beneficial learning experience 2. acquire scientific knowledge and skills relevant to competence as a practitioner in forensic science, and to those organisations concerned with the collection or analysis of forensic evidence 3
3. develop scientific knowledge and skills, and transferable skills, which are of value in areas of employment other than forensic science 4. acquire the written and oral communication skills required to present data and explain scientific arguments to both specialist and general audiences 5. develop your ability to work independently, to build on your knowledge and skills for your own and any future employer s benefit, and to show initiative and flexibility with respect to changing needs and techniques 6. develop a familiarity with the justice system and an appreciation of the importance of the continuity of evidence from the crime scene to the court 7. develop an awareness of professional and ethical standards and practices (including quality assurance), and understand the importance of adhering to them. Level Descriptors Level Descriptors describe in general terms the expected outcomes you will achieve at each level of study as you progress through your programmes. They describe the relative demand, complexity, depth of learning and learner autonomy associated with a particular level of learning and achievement. The University s Level Descriptors are aligned to the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) and are a key mechanism for ensuring the academic standards of the University s provision. At Level 4: (Usually Year 1 undergraduate), you will be able to demonstrate that you have the ability: To apply a systematic approach to the acquisition of knowledge, underpinning concepts and principles and deploy a range of subject specific, cognitive and transferable skills. Evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving well defined problems and communicate outcomes in a structured and clear manner. Identify and discuss the relationship between personal and work place experience and findings from books and journals and other data drawn from the field of study. At Level 5: (Usually Year 2 undergraduate), you will be able to demonstrate that you have the ability: To apply and evaluate key concepts and theories within and outside the context in which they were first studied. Select appropriately from and deploy a range of subject-specific, cognitive and transferable skills and problem solving strategies to problems in the field of study and in the generation of ideas effectively communicate information and arguments in a variety of forms. Accept responsibility for determining and achieving personal outcomes. Reflect on personal and work place experience in the light of recent scholarship and current statutory regulations. Programme Outcomes Knowledge and Understanding The programme provides opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate the following: 4
After 240 credits of study (FdSc) you will be able to demonstrate: Core K1 A sound knowledge and understanding of selected aspects of chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics and statistics that are central to forensic science Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence K2 knowledge of how to record, manage, interpret, evaluate and present evidence and experimental results K3 knowledge of prevailing legal standards and legislation applicable to the recovery, storage, retention, analysis and disposal of evidence Crime Scene Investigation K4 knowledge of the principles and effective application of the relevant techniques needed for the formulation of crime scene examination strategies K5 understanding of the responsibilities, roles and liabilities of the individuals and agencies involved in a crime scene, and of information exchange between them Laboratory Analysis K6 knowledge of the theory, application and limitations of the principal laboratory methods used routinely in forensic science, and competence in the selection and use of such methods Programme Outcomes Skills and other Attributes (including Employability Skills) The programme provides opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate the following: After 240 credits of study (FdSc) you will be able to demonstrate: S1. communication skills, including the ability to use technical language correctly, to present concepts and information in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in writing, and the ability to interact and communicate effectively within a wide range of professional environments S2. investigative and analytical skills, including the ability to formulate problems clearly, identify key issues, carry out an independent investigation using multiple information sources and apply judgement to construct logical arguments S3. personal development skills, including the ability to identify and reflect on where further training or skill acquisition is necessary for self-improvement S4. the ability to use information technology systems effectively to access, analyse and present data, research findings and the evidence base for forensic science S5. the ability to plan, execute, report and evaluate the results of a scientific investigation using appropriate methods and information technology systems S6. the ability to work both within a team and independently, following safe working practices and relevant quality assurance procedures S7. competence in procedures for maintaining the integrity and continuity of evidence, together with an awareness of the special issues, legal framework and practices involved with the recovery, storage, 5
handling, retention, investigation and analysis of forensic materials and digital data External and Internal Reference Points The following Subject Benchmark Statements and other external and internal reference points have been used to inform the Programme Outcomes: Academic Regulations: The Forensic Science Society Component Standards: http://www.forensic-science-society.org.uk/accreditation/component%20standard QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Forensic Science: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/en/publications/documents/subject-benchmark-statement-forensic-science.pdf QAA Foundation Degree Qualification Benchmark: http://www.cumbria.ac.uk/media/university-of-cumbria-website/contentassets/public/aqs/documents/academicregulations/acregs.pdf. http://www.qaa.ac.uk/en/publications/documents/foundation-degree-qualification-benchmark- 2010.pdf Skillsmark: The Quality Framework for Learning and Development in the Justice, Community Safety and Legal Services Sector: http://www.sfjuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/skillsmark-process-guide-may-2013.pdf Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategies employed to enable the Programme Outcomes to be Achieved and Demonstrated Blended Learning: The delivery mode we adopt is referred to as Blended Learning and in our experience this adds significant value to the teaching and learning process. Blended learning refers to the combination of face to face and online learning. It empowers you to collaborate remotely through Moodle, share materials and discuss your work with your peers and tutors. Blended learning equally provides lecturers with opportunities to review your progress, to add tasks, for example, tests for revision purposes, podcasts, videos and other materials between lectures, keeping sites up to date and interactive. Through blending the learning we are able to respond to the range of learning needs and preferences expressed by our student groups. Blended learning also refers to the inclusion of tasks and opportunities that add value by offering exceptional opportunities for learning. Employability: (academic, professional and graduate skills) There is a particular emphasis in the course on employability using volunteering, employment and work experience in appropriate placements as a vehicle for employability skill development. To provide you with the opportunities to compete effectively at the next stage of your career, the team actively promote using volunteering, employment and work experience and have made a variety of links in the local community to support you to take up these opportunities. The production of a reflective log will be required to underpin the links between theory and practice which are key to completing a summative assessment using this information. The delivery and assessment of teaching and learning: 6
The teaching and learning strategy is developmental and cumulative and as such includes formative (opportunities to practise new skills) and summative assignments (assessments that contribute to your progression through the programme). These assessments are structured to promote self-confidence and enhance performance. The delivery of the programme is varied and increasingly innovative. Student participation is considered a key to success and attendance is closely monitored. We have an expectation that attendance will be 100% to achieve degree level study. The key aim for all assessments in the programme is to enable you to demonstrate that you have achieved the intended learning outcomes of the programme and each contributory module. The assessment strategy also seeks to: facilitate your learning experience through a varied range of assessment methods develop assessment skills that foster independent and reflective learning encourage engagement in group activities and private study foster a range of generic and key skills vital to maximise employment opportunities Learning and teaching methods are designed to support the move to autonomy and independent learning, and will include: lectures laboratory classes tutorials simulated crime scene experience case studies seminars and workshops, including oral presentations directed and independent study involving electronic resources on the college s Moodle site (virtual learning environment), textbooks and other self-study materials problem-based learning interactive computer-based learning training and practice in the use of IT and software packages project work, both individual and in teams reading and interpreting research publications Methods of Assessment: The assessment throughout the programme will include a blend of typical assessment activities such as written assignments, presentations and reports, alongside innovative and employability focused tasks such as case study analysis, problem based activities and reflective logs. These methods are chosen to encourage knowledge development, practitioner skills, and a range of transferable and professional capabilities such as communication and presentation skills, problem-solving, team work, numeracy and IT skills. Forms of Assessment: All assessments occur during or on completion of modules, and will include a range of Summative and Formative tasks. In each module, you have the opportunity to engage in summative and formative assessments. Summative assessment refers to work submitted for module and programme credit to achieve a recognised educational qualification, and is used to assess whether you have achieved the relevant 7
Learning Outcomes in a module. Summative assessment is captured in the overall mark awarded for each module. Formative assessments occur in each of the modules to provide a foundation to build on for the future summative assessments. Indicative Range of Formative & Summative Assessment Methods: The breadth of assessment methods acknowledges that graduate and employability skills are many and varied and so you need opportunities to develop, practice and be assessed on as full a range of skills as possible. The traditional methods (e.g. essay) are supplemented by applied methods, for example, portfolio, case analysis, oral presentation for the workplace. Some examples of the assessment types used on the programme appear below: unseen examinations laboratory reports portfolios problem solving reports on simulated crime scenes critical analysis of case studies critical analysis of journal articles project work oral, audio-visual and poster presentations dissertations peer and self-assessment group work Student Support As a student on this programme that maybe employed, or undertaking a voluntary placement within a related Science setting, a local induction with details of key information, contacts and services available within the College will be provided for you and the setting. The College is aware of its responsibility to maximise industry related opportunities and to review the suitability of the setting for both the student and the placement provider. Induction includes the expectations of HE study and of the programme, with additional practical sessions related to the library and accessing information and supportive study skills materials. A student handbook is provided which outlines the structure of the programme and contains more thorough guidance to support you and gives an overview of each module and details of progression and articulation pathways which are aligned to the Academic Regulations which govern Southport College and the University of Cumbria. Module Handbooks are provided for each module outlining the module requirements and providing very clear guidelines on the type of assessment you will be expected to undertake. You will be issued with a timetable\academic calendar of events which highlight holiday periods and the expected assessment schedule and be given an opportunity to take part in formative feedback as a means of clarifying you understand the tasks of your assessment and how this can support you in preparing for your summative assessment and hence your learning during the course of your studies. The processes of student support you will be entitled to receive whilst a student at Southport College include:- Regular tutorials with personal learning and target setting; 8
Contact with the programme leader who will monitor progress overall and provide ongoing guidance and support; A dedicated e learning portal site with information about the programme, including your programme handbook and resources available for each module; A separate module site will be maintained by each of the tutors, who will also provide updates on issues of current significance; Access to tutors and administrative staff via email, telephone and post; A range of facilities is available to support students with special needs and/or learning disabilities. You will be supported on an individual basis, as appropriate, and, if necessary, changes are made to the curriculum, teaching styles and assessment practices. Arrangements are made to ensure that you receive appropriate support during your work based learning experience. Technicians, will be on-hand to help with the use of learning technologies throughout your programme. The Library Learning Centre team can assist with accessing literature aligned to the specific modules and electronic access to appropriate and authoritative sources. Learners are supported throughout their studies to engage in activities designed to elicit their feedback aligned to the content and delivery of the programme and are encouraged to offer their opinions on the teaching and learning experiences as well as any relevant peripheral issues. There are regular student meetings during which an elected student representative will collect and collate the feedback and present to the Head of Department. Previous students are periodically invited back to discuss their experiences with current learners in terms of progression, both academically and professionally, and offer advice and guidance in relation to maximising potential in their studies and help with the work placement element of the programme. This is further supported by inputs offered from HEI representatives regarding articulation routes available to the learners upon completion of their FdSc. You will also be allocated a Personal Tutor. Your Personal Tutor will be proactively involved in the delivery of your programme and will have contact with you throughout your time at the College. They will support your learning and development, including tutorials. Personal tutors will also be able to signpost students to other agencies they may need during their student career. Library and Student Guidance Services Library and Student Guidance Services offer a wide range of support, including; access to library learning resources, academic skills, careers and employability, financial help, counselling, health and wellbeing and support for disabled students and those with specific learning requirements. As a Higher Education student learning support is funded via the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) for further information click here; https://www.southport.ac.uk/higher-education/our-support/learning-support We know that you want to get the most out of your programme, make the best use of your time and find or continue in the career you always dreamed of. Access college support and facilities easily and quickly via our https://www.southport.ac.uk/higher-education/our-support/student-guidance-centre Students can access a suite of online self-help resources accessible 24/7 via the college s website and Moodle site. It also provides group and individual advice and guidance accessible through and alongside your course and by different means such as face to face, email or virtual. Module leaders will collaborate with Library advisers to ensure that your reading lists are current and items are available via the library collections. In order to maximise access, availability and usefulness, ebooks and electronic journal titles will, in most cases, be prioritised. You can access a wide range of great electronic and printed content and you can find out more about key texts and journals for your subject by accessing the library via the College website; https://www.southport.ac.uk/pageinfo.aspx?college/resources/library-learning-centre 9
At the start of the programme you will be expected to purchase your own Laboratory coat from a Southport College recommended supplier. You can also, if you prefer, purchase other personal protective equipment please speak to the programme leader for further advice during induction. 10
Programme Curriculum Map 1 Academic Level Module Code Module Title 2 Credits Module Status 3 Map to Programme Outcomes 4 4 HSOG4001 Core Scientific Skills To develop core scientific skills needed for both success in your undergraduate studies and to enhance your employability. 20 Compulsory K2, S1, S2, S3, S4, S6 4 HSOS4001 Scientific Investigation To explore the protocols associated with scientific investigation. 4 HSOS4011 Biology for Forensic Scientists 20 Compulsory K1, K2, K6, S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 To develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of biology, essential to further study in forensic science 20 Compulsory K1, K2, S1, S4 4 HSOS4012 Chemistry for Forensic Scientists To develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of physical, organic and analytical chemistry, essential to further study in forensic science 20 Compulsory K1, K2, K6, S4 4 HSOS4004 Forensic Disciplines This module will introduce you to the fundamental principles of Forensic Science including different categories of evidence, types of crime scene and crime scene personnel. 4 HSOS4005 Crime Scene Investigation To equip you with an ability to perform techniques 11 20 Compulsory 20 Compulsory K1, K3, K4, K5, K6, S4, S6, S7 K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6, S1, S2, S5, S6, S7
Programme Curriculum Map 1 Academic Level Module Code Module Title 2 Credits Module Status 3 involved in crime scene investigation and analysis of evidence as practised by UK forensic agencies. Map to Programme Outcomes 4 5 HSOS5005 Work-Based Project To develop knowledge, workplace skills and personal attributes sought after by employers. 20 Compulsory S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 5 HSOS5001 DNA Technology To discuss the application of molecular biology to forensic science and clinical diagnostics as well as providing an overview of new and emerging research relevant to the specialist fields. 20 Compulsory K1, K2, K3, K6, S1, S2, S4, S6 5 HSOS5002 Forensic Biology To demonstrate how biology and biological techniques are applied in forensic casework. 20 Compulsory K1, K6, S1, S4 5 HSOS5003 Forensic Chemistry To develop a thorough understanding of the principles and applications of chemical analysis in forensic science. 20 Compulsory K1, K2, K6, S1, S4, S5, S7 5 HSOS5004 Evidence, Procedures and Law To develop your understanding of the investigative process and the management of forensic evidence, with particular reference to the role of an expert witness presenting evidence in court. 20 Compulsory K2, K3, K4, K5, K6, S2, S4, S5, S6, S7 12
Programme Curriculum Map 1 Academic Level Module Code Module Title 2 Credits Module Status 3 Map to Programme Outcomes 4 5 HSOS5010 Forensic Medicine To introduce you to the ways in which medical science and principal evidence types can assist in the resolution of legal issues in the criminal and civil courts. 20 Compulsory K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6, S4, S5, S7 Notes Module pass mark: 40% (Undergraduate) Please see the Academic Regulations http://www.cumbria.ac.uk/media/university-of-cumbria-website/contentassets/public/aqs/documents/academicregulations/acregs.pdf Section G for guidance on progression and the carrying of fails. 1 This programme operates in accordance with the University s Academic Regulations and Academic Procedures and Process. 2 Please refer to the relevant programme webpage on the University s website for summaries of the individual Module Aims. 3 Core Modules must be taken and must be successfully passed. Compulsory Modules must be taken although it may possible to carry as a fail (if the award permits). Optional Modules are a set of modules from which you will be required to choose to study. Once chosen, unless indicated otherwise in the table above, an optional module carries the same rules as a compulsory module as per the Academic Regulations. Qualificatory Units. These are non-credit bearing pass/fail components that are used to satisfy relevant professional, statutory or regulatory body professional requirements that are associated with the programme. 4 This column references the Programme Outcomes that will be achieved through successful completion of each module (i.e. through successful completion of the module summative assessment) 13
Programme Delivery Structure: Full Time Module Code Module Title Delivery Pattern Autumn Semester / Spring Semester Method(s) of Assessment Approximate Assessment Deadline HSOG4001 Core Scientific Skills Autumn Written assignment Report HSOS4001 Scientific Investigation Spring Set exercise Report Mid semester 1 End semester 1 Mid semester 2 HSOS4011 Biology for Forensic Scientists Autumn Spring HSOS4012 Chemistry for Forensic Scientists Autumn Spring HSOS4004 Forensic Disciplines Autumn Spring HSOS4005 Crime Scene Investigation Autumn Spring HSOS5005 Work-Based Project Autumn Spring Written exam Written assignment Written assignment Written exam Written assignment Written exam Portfolio Set exercise Project work Project Work End semester 1 End semester 1 End semester 1 Mid semester 1 Mid semester 1 Mid semester 2 HSOS5001 DNA Technology Spring Written assignment Written exam HSOS5002 Forensic Biology Autumn Oral assessment/presentation End semester 1 14
Written exam End semester 1 HSOS5003 Forensic Chemistry Spring Oral assessment/presentation Written exam HSOS5004 Evidence, Procedures and Law Spring Oral assessment/presentation Written assignment HSOS5010 Forensic Medicine Autumn Written assignment Written exam Mid semester 2 Mid semester 2 Mid semester 1 End semester 1 Please note; Part time students will study alongside full time students on an infill basis. In such cases, an individualised programme delivery structure, programme duration, and timetable will be agreed between the student and the programme leader. 15
Methods for Evaluating and Improving the Quality and Standards of Learning Mechanisms used for the Review and Evaluation of the Curriculum and Learning, Teaching and Assessment Methods Mechanisms used for gaining and responding to feedback on the quality of teaching and the learning experience gained from: Students, graduates, employers, WBL venues, other stakeholders, etc. Module Evaluation Programme validation and revalidation Annual Evaluatory Reports Peer Review External Examiner reports Southport College Higher Education Quality Improvement group University of Cumbria Annual Partnership Review Student focus groups Student council Student governor Module Evaluation Forms Programme Evaluation: National Student Survey, Module/Programme/Personal tutorials Meetings with External Examiners Date of Programme Specification Production: Date Programme Specification was last updated: 20.03.2017 22.03.2017 For further information about this programme, refer to the programme page on the University website:- https://www.southport.ac.uk 16