Applied Science

If you enjoy science subjects, practical laboratory work and prefer coursework to exams, this more work relatedly based course, linking the science you study to jobs using scientific skills might suit you. You can study it alongside A level science subjects or other level 3 qualifications, making it equally suitable for entry to science courses in higher education, or going straight into work or an apprenticeship. The course covers the fundamentals of biology, chemistry and physics.

4 GCSEs at grade C or above, including science, maths and English.

You'll learn about the important concepts in biology, chemistry and physics and explore the ways in which they are applied in the workplace, from cell biologists diagnosing diseases, materials scientists using their understanding of chemistry to develop nanomaterials, to automotive engineers applying Newton's laws to designing cars. You'll spend a considerable amount of time in the laboratory, planning and carrying out scientific investigations of the kind that professionals working in industry and medical science might undertake. You'll have hands-on experience of safely using lab equipment and experimental techniques. You'll explore the roles and career paths for scientists across a range of sectors and understand the specific skills and qualifications required for them. You'll look at the ways scientific ideas are communicated to non-scientists as well as exploring the media and public perceptions of science through current topical issues.

Through a mixture of classroom based theory and laboratory practical lessons.

Written examination and assignment based coursework.

You could enter technician employment or apprenticeships/degree apprenticeships in science based roles including laboratory work in hospitals, schools, medical, veterinary or sports science, quality control or research in industry. You could move on to to higher education courses such as HNC/HND, Foundation or bachelor's degree in related subjects such as chemistry physics, biology, biomedical, forensic, food or sports science as well as healthcare therapies and nursing.