Update on Level 3 Criminology, Food Science & Nutrition, and Medical Science qualifications

The Government has confirmed that responses to its recent consultation showed broad support for introducing V Levels across the subject areas proposed in the consultation document, which included both Criminology and Science.

As part of the next stage, the Government has brought together all the subjects suggested through consultation feedback, alongside those already outlined in the document. They are now carrying out further, in-depth subject analysis to determine which areas are viable to progress as full V Levels. More detailed information on which subjects will be taken forward is expected to be set out in the forthcoming Implementation Plan, which has not yet been published.

Because some employment routes span a wide range of occupations — and therefore require a broader set of knowledge, skills and understanding — the Government has indicated that more than one V Level may be developed within certain routes where content is particularly extensive.

At present, we are seeking clarification on whether Criminology will be included within a wider Protective Services route or whether it may be developed as a standalone V Level.

For our Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs) in Medical Science and Food Science and Nutrition, we anticipate that these will align with the Health and Science route, reflecting the scope of the existing T Level in Science, which includes both Laboratory Sciences and Technical Food Sciences.

We will share any updates with centres as soon as more information becomes available.

Our current qualifications remain available

While the Government continues its analysis, we want to reassure centres that the following qualifications remain available and unchanged for delivery:

Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification in Medical Science (Certificate and Extended Certificate)
Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification in Food Science and Nutrition (Certificate and Extended Certificate) – first teaching from September 2026.
Level 3 Applied Certificate and Diploma in Criminology