BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science

Are you interested in Science? Do you like to learn about the practical application of Science? Are you organised; do you prefer coursework over exams? Then this could be the course for you, with a more gentle step up from GCSE to A Level and useful in a variety of careers including nursing, laboratory work and accepted by universities, this could be the course for you.

Course Overview

BTEC Level 3 Extended certificate is a two-year course and is equivalent to 1 A Level. The course content includes both mandatory and optional units, of which some are assessed externally and some internally.

The course develops a sound foundation through the study of fundamental biological, chemical and physical principles whilst exploring applications of medical science.

Find out how to apply for this course

Where could this course take me?

Successful completion of the course can lead to employment, college or university. Whatever your grade or aim at the end of the course you will have gained a great deal of information about Applied Science. Previous students have gone into a wide range of courses, including Biomedical Science, Forensics, Psychology and Nursing.

Entrance Requirements

To study BTEC Applied Science, students on either the Combined Science or Separate Science GCSE programmes will be considered.

  • If students study Combined Science, they must achieve a 5-5 Grade or above.
  • If students study Separate Sciences, they must achieve a Grade 5 or above in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Students must also obtain a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics and a Grade 5 or above in English Language / Literature.

For students from other schools, equivalent Science GCSE courses will be considered.

As with all A Level subjects, students must be prepared to carry out a considerable amount of private study and attend support sessions when appropriate.

Awarding Body

Pearson

Assessment

58% Exam

42% Coursework

Why choose this course?

This course gives you a mix of practical and coursework skills. There will be a written exam and a practical exam as the external assessment. The internally assessed units are based upon practical skills, that will be transferrable to future careers and other subjects. This is not just for those who wish to pursue Science as a career but also for anyone who wishes to improve their IT and report writing skills and the ability to analyse and evaluate data.

What topics will I study?

Mandatory units:

1.       Principles and Application of Science (externally assessed in Year 1 and 3)

2.       Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques (internally assessed in Year 1 and 2)

Optional units (only 1 is selected in year 2),

  • Science Investigation Skills
  • Contemporary Issues in Science

How is the course assessed?

What equipment will I need?

You will need a scientific calculator, lined paper or notebook, pens, pencils and other common stationery.

What other subjects go well with Applied Science?

Applied Science can work well alongside Mathematics, Psychology, Health and Social Care and Sport.

What summer work do I need to complete for this course?

Please find below the transition work to be completed over the Summer period.

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