Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate)
COURSE OVERVIEW
You will master the core principles of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, while developing essential practical scientific procedures and investigation skills. Alongside scientific knowledge, you will build valuable transferable skills such as problem-solving, research, data analysis and communication, supporting your progression to higher education.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
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.
Scientific Investigation Skills – Investigative research, including planning, data collection, analysis and evaluation.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
At Preston College you’ll benefit from our iSTEM Centre with dedicated science facilities and equipment. There are dual use classroom and laboratories so you can put theory into practice. In terms of equipment there is a PCR machine which amplifies DNA, ultraviolet visible spectrophotometer, digital melting point apparatus, infrared spectrophotometer, a telescope, and forensic kits.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Assignments
Controlled Assessments
Exams
Formal Assessments
In Class Tests
Practical Assessments & Tasks
Presentations
Timed Assessments
Written Assignments
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
A grade of Distinction* is worth 56 UCAS points for this course, which when combined with other qualifications can be used for entry to a range of university degree programmes.
Degree progression may include:
Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health)
Midwifery
Pharmacy
Optometry
Physiotherapy
Biomedical Science
Biological Sciences
Forensic Science
Allied Health degrees (e.g. radiography, operating department practice, paramedic science)
Sport and Exercise Science
Psychology or Health Sciences
Public Health or Healthcare-related degrees
Career and employment pathways may include:
Healthcare support roles (e.g. healthcare assistant, clinical support worker)
Laboratory assistant or trainee technician
Biomedical support roles
Care and health-related roles within the NHS or private sector.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
This course can only be studied as part of a combined studies package. It will run subject to sufficient student numbers and availability of government funding.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You will need five grade 5s including English and maths. This course can only be studied as part of a combined studies package.
