Applied Science

The AAQ Extended certificate in Applied Science enables students to gain practical laboratory skills and theoretical scientific understanding in a workplace setting. Students further develop their knowledge and skills by exploring one of two vocational pathways: environmental studies and medical physics.

Science lies at the core of STEM, providing you with analytical and problem-solving skills, teaching you to think, investigate and come up with solutions. This is a full-time course for students who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education or apprenticeships and ultimately to employment in the STEM sector. The qualification is equivalent to one A Level and can lead to many degree-level science courses, including: Psychology, Environmental Sciences, Biological sciences, Medical professions, Food science etc. when combined with appropriate A-level subjects.

Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 4+ including English and Maths and Science at Grade 5/5+

Content

This course is equivalent to one A Level.

There are three components and two externally assessed units:

Component 1:	Investigating Science
Component 2:	Environmental Sciences
Component 3:	Medical Physics

Externally assessed Unit 1:	Fundamentals of Science
Externally assessed Unit 2:	Science in Society

Students study across all three sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics, covering topics including: fundamental chemical and physical principles, structure and function of cells, physiology and disease, electromagnetic waves, amongst many other fascinating areas of cutting-edge science. You will carry out many experiments, some of which you will design yourself, learning how to analyse and evaluate your results. There will be lessons where you undertake independent and group research, discuss scientific issues, research information online, revise topics and practice exam techniques. You will develop strong independent study skills throughout your time studying applied science. This course also allows you to develop your industry work skills.

Assessment

50% Examinations, 50% Coursework

Am I right for the course?

This course is right for you if you have a keen interest in the sciences, particularly the applied and practical aspects of them, and are interested in finding out more. It is a modular course with both coursework and exams, so it would be ideal if you prefer this way of learning.

Course Highlights

Hands-on Experience:	Work in well-equipped science laboratories
Personal Development:	Explore and develop your individual scientific practice

Where Next?

Most students who complete a BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science progress to university, where a wide range of degree courses are on offer to students, such as Forensics, Radiography, Biomedical Science, Pharmacology, Microbiology or Nutrition.

Alternatively, you may progress to an apprenticeship or directly into employment such as laboratory work. Employers highly value the skills gained by science students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have taken the higher papers in Science and Maths?
No, this is not a requirement of the course. You can apply having achieved your grades on foundation papers.
Is there a lot of writing?
Yes, there is a lot of independent coursework that needs to be written up.
Are there trips?
We are planning trips and site visits to complete your coursework and make the STEM industries come to life.
What are AAQs?
Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs) have been approved by the Department for Education (DfE) and, when combined with A Levels as part of a mixed-study programme, provide learners with a high-quality entry route into higher education with the added reassurance of allocated UCAS tariff points. AAQs provide a flexible and inclusive progression opportunity for learners who commence at certificate level.

St Wilfrid's Catholic School

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