Garth Hill College

Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification - BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate)

BTEC Applied Science is a vocational course that is equivalent to one A-Level and gives equivalent UCAS points if you are considering applying for university. It provides students both with practical skills and theoretical knowledge in the three sciences (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics). Students study five units across the two years (three in year 12 and 2 in year 13). Students study Units 1, 2 and 3 in Year 12, and Unit 4 and the optional unit in Year 13. Units 1, 2 and 3 are externally assessed (through an exam) and Unit 4 and the optional unit are internally assessed (through coursework).

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Biology (60 Guided Learning Hours)

• Structure and function of cells and tissues
• Structure and function of biological molecules
• Cellular transport and enzyme activity

Unit 2: Principles and Applications of Chemistry (60 Guided Learning Hours)

• Atomic and electronic structure
• Bonding and structure
• Periodicity
• Physical chemistry
• Organic chemistry

Unit 3: Principles and Applications of Physics (60 Guided Learning Hours)

• Understanding waves and optical fibres
• Forces in transportation and Newtons Laws of Motion
• Electrical circuits and the transfer of energy

Unit 4: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques (90 Guided Learning Hours)

• Learning aim A: Undertake techniques to determine chemical concentration and composition of substances.
• Learning aim B: Undertake biological procedures to investigate concentration and distribution of biological components
• Learning aim C: Undertake physical procedures to examine energy transfer
• Learning aim D: Review personal development of scientific skills for laboratory work

Unit 6: Optional unit - Contemporary Issues in Science (90 Guided Learning Hours)

• Learning aim A: Investigate contemporary scientific issues that impact the global population and environment
• Learning aim B: Examine the effect different organisations have on contemporary science
• Learning aim C: Understand how to evaluate and report scientific information

What do I need to study BTEC Applied Science?

We recommend the following:

• Minimum grade 5-5 in Combined Science (Foundation or Higher Paper) or grade 5s in Separate Sciences
• A 4-4 minimum in GCSE English and Maths

Where can BTEC Applied Science take me?

The new BTEC qualification has been approved by over 150 UK universities and other higher education learning providers. Some example degrees this course could lead you to include: archaeology, nutrition, speech therapy, biology, kinesiology, environmental science, animal science, genetics, nursing, midwifery, and sports science.

If you are considering apprenticeships, there are several large companies who look for Applied Science students. They include: Allergan, AstraZeneca, GSK, Pfizer, Rolls-Royce, and Unilever.