APPLIED SCIENCE
LEVEL 3: EXTENDED CERTIFICATE/EXTENDED DIPLOMA (BTEC)
EXAMINING BOARD: PEARSON
This is a practical, industry-focused course with an emphasis on technical laboratory skills.
It is ideal if you want a grounding in all three of the major science disciplines; Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Past trips include visiting an observatory to learn about Astronomy and outings to chemical labs, biomedical labs and breweries to learn about these scientific careers.
You can select to study either an Extended Certificate or an Extended Diploma:
The Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A Level and can be combined with two other subjects.
The Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels and carries the same UCAS points tariff, so you will not study additional subjects within your core Study Programme.
Extended Certificate
Year 1 units:
- Principles and Applications of Science 1
- Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques.
Year 2 units:
- Science Investigation Skills
- Astronomy and Space Science
Extended Diploma
Year 1 units:
- Principles and Applications of Science 1
- Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
- Science Investigation Skills
- Laboratory Techniques and their Application
- Biological Molecules and Metabolic Pathways
- Genetics and Genetic Engineering.
Year 2 units:
- Principles and Applications of Science 2
- Investigative Project
- Contemporary Issues in Science
- Medical Physics Applications
- Biomedical Science.
As a minimum, you will need (or equivalent to):
- GCSE Mathematics grade 4
- GCSE English Language grade 4
- a GCSE in one of the core Sciences at grade 4
- plus two more GCSEs at grade 4
It is strongly recommended you have:
- GCSE Mathematics grade 5 or above
- a GCSE in one of the core Sciences or Applied Science at grade 5 or above
It is not recommended to combine this subject with Biology, Chemistry or Physics, as they contain similar content.
For the BTEC Extended Diploma, a Level 2 vocational qualification at grade merit or above can be accepted in place of one GCSE.
Extended Certificates are assessed by coursework (42%) and exams (58%).
Extended Diplomas are assessed by coursework (58%) and exams (42%).
Coursework takes a variety of forms including demonstrating practical techniques, writing reports and preparing literature, presentations and videos.
The exams are both written and practical and taken upon completion of specific modules.
Students progress on to degrees, Apprenticeships and a range of science-related careers.
Potential degrees include:
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Paramedic Science
- Medicine
- Biological Science
- Sports Science
- Environmental Science
- Veterinary Science
- Primary Education
- Physiotherapy
- Forensics.
Potential job roles include:
- Laboratory Technician
- Health Worker
- Pharmacy Assistant
- Optician.
Even if you decide not to pursue science you will acquire many valuable skills including critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, independence, report writing and presentation skills.
Are vocational qualifications as valuable as A Levels?
Yes, they are well regarded by universities and employers alike.
They carry an equal UCAS points tariff and some of the best universities highly regard Applied Science and value the practical skills that our students bring.