Course content & format

This full-time Level 3 course is designed for students who want to study science in depth through a combination of theory, practical work and applied learning. It is ideal for students who enjoy laboratory work, scientific investigation and understanding how science is used in real-world contexts.

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science is equivalent in size to three A Levels and is usually studied as a full-time programme over two years. Pearson states that the qualification contains 13 units, of which 7 are mandatory and 6 are optional, with 4 mandatory units externally assessed. The qualification has a total of 1080 guided learning hours.

All students study the following mandatory units:

· Principles and Applications of Science I

· Principles and Applications of Science II

· Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques

· Science Investigation Skills

· Laboratory Techniques and their Application

· Investigative Project

· Contemporary Issues in Science. (qualifications.pearson.com)

In addition, students study optional units selected by the college. These may include:

· Physiology of Human Body Systems

· Biological Molecules and Metabolic Pathways

· Diseases and Infections

· Applications of Organic Chemistry

· Applications of Inorganic Chemistry

· Medical Physics Applications. (qualifications.pearson.com)

The course gives students a broad scientific education across biology, chemistry and physics, while also developing practical laboratory skills, investigative techniques and the ability to apply scientific knowledge to realistic scenarios.

Your unique experience

Applied Science offers a practical and engaging approach to learning. You will carry out experiments, develop laboratory techniques, analyse data and apply scientific ideas to a range of contexts including healthcare, research, environmental science and industry.

The course supports students in developing valuable transferable skills such as observation, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, evaluation and independent research. It is well suited to students who want a hands-on route into higher education or science-related careers.

Students may also benefit from enrichment opportunities such as practical workshops, guest speakers, subject visits and careers guidance linked to science and related progression routes.

Entry Qualifications

· Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, Mathematics and 44 in Double Science.

· A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.

· A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time.

· An interview may be required as part of the application process.

How is this course assessed?

Assessment is through a mixture of external assessment and internal assessment.

Pearson states that the Extended Diploma includes 4 mandatory externally assessed units, with the remaining units assessed internally. Internal assessment includes assignments set and marked by teachers and quality assured by Pearson. (qualifications.pearson.com)

Students are assessed through:

· written examinations

· set tasks

· practical investigations

· laboratory work

· assignments

· project work

· reports and case studies

Final grades are awarded on the BTEC scale, with the overall qualification graded up to DDD* at the top end of the Extended Diploma. Pearson describes the qualification as equivalent in size to three A Levels

What can I do next?

This qualification can support progression to:

· Higher Education

· Higher or degree apprenticeships

· Employment in science-related sectors. (qualifications.pearson.com)

It can provide a strong foundation for progression into areas such as:

· Biomedical Science

· Environmental Science

· Forensic Science

· Pharmacy

· Healthcare Science

· Laboratory-based careers

· Scientific research

· Pharmaceutical industries

· Environmental and industrial science