A forensic science course launched in response to the “CSI effect” is continuing to gather momentum at Coleg Cambria, with increased demand, new facilities and students progressing to university.
Introduced just three years ago, the Forensic and Criminal Investigation programme was developed to meet growing interest in crime scene investigation, forensic analysis and the criminal justice system.
Interest has remained consistently high since launch, leading to additional classes, and strong retention and achievement rates.
Lead lecturer Paul Phillips-Jenkins said growth reflects both the relevance of the subject matter and the strength of progression opportunities available to students.
“The programme has developed significantly in a relatively short period of time,” he said.
“We are seeing sustained interest year on year, strong academic outcomes and clear progression routes into higher education in areas such as forensic science, anthropology and archaeology.”
The college has now seen its first cohorts progress to university, marking a key milestone for the qualification, reinforcing its role as a pathway into specialist scientific and investigative disciplines.
Delivery of the course has been supported by investment in specialist facilities. It is now based in the Nant building at Yale in Wrexham, and includes a dedicated forensic laboratory, specialist teaching spaces and immersive mock crime scene environments.
These include simulated hospital wards and a mock social care apartment, designed to give students hands-on experience in realistic settings.
The programme is also supported by a specialist forensic science technician.
At the time of launch, the course drew significant attention due to the impact of the “CSI effect”, with crime dramas helping to raise awareness and interest in forensic science as a field of study.
Paul added: “The subject was increasingly viewed as an accessible and engaging route into science, particularly for learners interested in real-world application rather than traditional pathways. That’s certainly proven to be the case.”
Equivalent to three A Levels and studied alongside the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate), the programme combines academic study with practical crime scene investigation skills, environmental forensics, criminology, forensic genetics, anthropology and archaeology.
