GCSE Science Grade 4 or higher (Combined Science, Biology, Chemistry or Physics) and Grade 4 or higher in GCSE Mathematics
The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate) enables students to study the principles and applications of biology, chemistry and physics, as well as practical scientific procedures and techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their investigation skills or explore contemporary issues in science.
There are three examined units and two internally assessed units where students will engage in practical tasks to develop their scientific skills and knowledge. The qualification is designed to be taken alongside A Levels or other BTEC courses as part of a study programme. It can link to learning in a range of subjects such as Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, and Information Technology. The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate) is intended for students that wish to progress into higher education as a pathway to employment.
The qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education representatives and sector experts from associated professional bodies to ensure students have the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to progress to, and thrive, in higher education.
The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:
Principles and Applications of Biology – Structure and function of cells and tissues, biological molecules, enzymes and their role in organisms
Principles and Applications of Chemistry – Structure of the Periodic Table and its implications on physical and chemical properties of substances, through analysis of different bonding methods
Principles and Applications of Physics – Waves and their applications; force principles and their application in transportation and construction of electrical circuits
Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques – Practical applications across the sciences, including chromatography, colorimetry and electrical circuits.
Students have a choice from two optional units covering the following topics:
Scientific Investigation Skills – Investigative research, including planning, data collection, analysis and evaluation.
Contemporary Issues in Science – Contemporary scientific issues including the reliability of sources of scientific information and their associated validity.
Units are assessed using a grading scale of Distinction (D), Merit (M), Pass (P), Near Pass (N) and Unclassified (U). The grade of Near Pass is used for externally-assessed units only.
The three external units are set and marked by Pearson. Each exam is out of 50 minutes and lasts for one hour.
Fundamental scientific principles and applied knowledge relating to biology, chemistry and physics
Laboratory techniques, including health and safety assessment, and associated professional practice
Problem solving. Students will develop the following knowledge and skills from the optional units:
Scientific Research skills including researching and planning methodologies, primary data collection and analysis, drawing justified conclusions.
Secondary research skills including collecting information from a range of sources, its evaluation and interpretation, and its use to draw reasoned conclusions.
Transferable skills such as critical thinking, taking personal responsibility and written communications.
Students develop the ability to practically apply scientific concepts, which is beneficial to the analytical approach of related degrees. Critical thinking and independent learning help students to be better prepared for the self-directed learning approach used in higher education and become more open-minded to learning. Research and extended writing skills with the other skills, creates a good foundation for academic success.
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.
Biomedical Science at St George's University London, Biomedical Science at University of Greenwich
Biomedical Science at Kingston University Biochemistry at Brunel University
Forensic Science at London South Bank University Pharmaceutical Sciences at Kingston University
Planetary Science and Astronomy at Birkbeck University London Midwifery at Kingston University
Kingston University studying Psychology with Criminology King's College London studying Midwifery
Westminster University studying Pharmacology and Physiology Diagnostic Radiography and Medical Imaging at the University of Portsmouth
Physiotherapy at the University of Wolverhampton Biomedical Science at the University of Surrey
Surrey University studying Biochemistry with Foundation Year Brunel University studying Computer Science (Software Engineering)
Greenwich University studying Extended Forensic Science Oxford Brookes University studying Nutrition
London South Bank University studying Sport and Exercise Science London South Bank University studying Physiotherapy
Westminster University studying Psychology and Counselling Psychology at University of Surrey & Kingston University
Early Childhood Studies at Roehampton University Law at Royal Holloway University & City University London
Real Estate Management with Business Experience (Sandwich year) at Kingston University Information Systems and Management at Birkbeck University London