Entry Requirements

GCSE Science Grade 4 or higher (Combined Science, Biology, Chemistry or Physics)  and Grade 4 in Mathematics

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel

Why Study Applied Science?

Science is an integral part of today’s society which includes many excellent careers including Nursing, Biomedical Science, Agri-Food industry and many other science related careers. Our science courses suit anyone, whether you love laboratory work, enjoy learning facts about the human body, watching chemical reactions or the agri-food industry.

 For anyone who sees their future career in science the Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science is an excellent starting point. It covers a wide range of topics across biology, chemistry and physics and will allow you to acquire a high level of practical laboratory skills from which the theory is then drawn. On successful completion of the Extended Certificate course continue on with your studies to your desired science career!

The aim of the course is for it to be "hands on", but there are high levels of scientific theory as well.

Students could combine Applied Science BTEC with Health and Social care BTEC level 3 or other BTEC Nationals or A Levels to progress to higher education or work.

What Topics Will I Study?

This curriculum area is very practical with plenty of opportunities to implement the theory that you learn. There is a combination of exams and course-work, which means that you have a very clear understanding of your progress throughout the course. Taught by subject specialists, with laboratory experience, you will learn by completing laboratory-based practical assignments, supported self-study assignments, presentations and discussions that are based on real workplace situations, activities and demands.

In the Extended Certificate, you will study three Core Units in:

1. Principles and Applications of Science

2. Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques

3.  Science Investigation Skills.

In addition students will study one unit such as – Physiology of Human Body Systems or Astronomy for example. The fourth topic is selected based on cohort career interest.

How Will I Be Assessed?

In the Extended Certificate two of the three core units are externally assessed. This will include a form of controlled assessment and a written exam. The mandatory content is (83%) of the course and the external assessment is (58%).

The remaining unit is internally assessed at RR6 and graded Pass, Merit or Distinction. Students who achieve all Distinctions in all their units receive an overall grade of Distinction*.

A variety of methods are used to show course mastery including case studies, experimental write ups, research projects, projects, portfolio, witness statements and videoed presentations. Students are assessed constantly over the two years.

What Careers or Higher Education Follow from this Subject?

This course provides a basis for progression into higher education and degree courses such as Biology, Chemistry, Biomedical sciences, Computing, Nursing, Radiography, Pharmacology,Forensic science, Environmental Science, Food and Nutrition, Physiology and many others.

The course also provides the appropriate background into employment with possible career-related further qualifications. The pathways taken could be aligned to medical, forensic or industrial career options.