Applied Science

Course Outline

If you are looking for a course that is practical and work-related, you have a keen interest in science from your GCSE courses and you are considering a career in a scientific field, this qualification is for you. A varied two-year course, BTEC Applied Science offers you a wide range of topics and further development of your lifelong learning skills.

Qualification Information:

Level: BTEC
Syllabus: Pearson
Duration: 1st Year – National Certificate.
2nd Year – National Extended Certificate

This is a BTEC Nationals vocational qualification that focuses on applied science and so reflects the type of work that goes on in organisations that use science. Designed for learners who are interested in learning about the sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in applied science.

Entry Requirements

Essential
Level 2 threshold (5 A*- C grades or equivalent). Double C Grades at Higher or Foundation Science or Applied Science GCSE.

Desirable
Double B Grades in Science or Applied Science GCSE.

What Will I Study?

Year 12

2 core units will be studied:

  • Principles and applications of Science – This unit introduces learners to fundamental scientific ideas in biology, chemistry and physics

  • Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques – The focus of this unit is on learners successfully carrying out required investigations and so focuses more on practical skills and less on written work. Learners will be introduced to quantitative laboratory techniques, calibration, chromatography, calorimetry and laboratory safety, which are relevant to the chemical and life science industries.

Year 13

1 further core unit will be studied, plus one further optional unit to be chosen by your teacher

  • Science investigation Skills - Learners will cover the stages involved and the skills needed in planning a scientific investigation: how to record, interpret, draw conclusions and evaluate

  • Optional unit - This will be a more specialised unit which could look at either physiology of body systems, biological molecules and metabolic pathways, applications of inorganic chemistry or electrical circuits and their application

How Will I Be Assessed?

The course combines external assessment: exams and set vocational tasks completed under supervised conditions. Internal assessment: research, projects and case studies. These will incorporate a range of practical and technical skills.

Career Opportunities & Progression

The career paths are vast and varied, dependent on the other subjects studied. Combined with Maths for engineering, combined with psychology for sports psychology, combined with health and social care for nursing, combined with sport for sport and exercise science, combined with geography for environmental science. This course could also lead to employment as a lab technician or in scientific research.