BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science
BTEC Level 3 Applied Science
Course Level – 3
Course Type – BTEC (RQF)
Specific Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade 5 including Maths, English and Science.
Duration – 2 Years
Student Age – 16-18
About The Course
This is the new, higher demand, specification which has been updated to include both externally marked exams and assessments. The topics covered include organic and inorganic chemistry, Genetics, physiology and thermodynamics. As there are externally assessed units, Russel group universities now recognise this qualification with the same regard as A levels, giving students who study this course a genuine alternative route into these universities.
How Is The Course Taught?
You will gain an advanced understanding of the principles of biology, chemistry and physics through a mix of theoretical and practical studies. Teachers use a variety of models and methods to encourage students to solve problems, make predictions and to develop scientific explanations, and understanding of familiar and unfamiliar facts.
All lessons are taught by highly qualified teachers with many years’ experience of teaching the three sciences. Extensive use is made of classroom technologies and trips; and the lessons take place in well-equipped science labs.
How will I be Assessed?
Unit 1 and 5 are externally marked exams covering Level 3 science topics, some of which are not included in either the A level or previous BTEC Science specifications. Unit 3 is an externally marked scientific experiment, testing the students’ practical and analytic skills and unit 7 tests their comprehension and analysis of high level scientific text.
The additional units are internally assessed through lab work, lab reports, essays, posters and presentations. Together with their chosen subject-specific units, the new specification has given the students a more rounded education experience and the successful students will have demonstrated a wider study-skills set.
What does it lead to?
On completion of this course, you are likely to move onto university to study a science-based degree. Our students progress to universities such as QMU, UCL and Kings College.
Working as a scientist the typical earnings in the sector ranges from £26k/ annum as a biomedical scientist/ graduate entry level engineer, up to £60k as a Senior scientist/ engineer.
