Level 3 Applied Science

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.
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.
●  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.
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
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

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