This qualification is equivalent to three A Levels when taken as an Extended Diploma or two A Levels for the Diploma course.
Qualification: Choose either BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science (worth 3 A levels) or BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science (worth 2 A Levels)
Exam Board: Pearson
Curious about how science works in the real world? Applied Science offers a hands-on, career-focused pathway where you will develop practical lab skills, investigate real-life scientific problems and build knowledge across biology, chemistry and physics. An Applied Science course is ideal for students who enjoy coursework, teamwork and applying their learning, opening doors to university courses and careers in areas such as healthcare, forensics, environmental science and beyond.
You can choose to take this course as an Extended Diploma (worth the equivalent of 3 A Levels) or as a Diploma (worth the equivalent of 2 A Levels). Students who opt for the Diploma will then chose an additional subject to take alongside.
The Extended Diploma consists of 13 units in total of which 9 are assessed via coursework and 4 are examined units.
The Diploma consists of a total of 8 units in total of which 5 are assessed via coursework and 3 are examined units.
We cover key Biology, Chemistry and Physics concepts in an applied context. Units include Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques, Physiology of Human Body Systems, Forensic Evidence, Collection and Analysis, Industrial Chemical Reactions, Diseases and Infections, and Medical Physics Applications to name just a few.
Students develop analytical, mathematical, research and laboratory skills valued by employers and universities.
Internal assessment (coursework) 58%
External assessment (exams) 42%
The qualification is assessed through a combination of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed examinations.
Students are graded Pass (P), Merit (M), Distinction (D) or Distinction* (D*).
Final overall grades for the Extended Diploma range range from PPP to D*D*D* and PP to D*D* for the Diploma.
Four 9-5 grades at GCSE with a minimum of numerical grade 4 in English Language, although grade 5 is recommended.
The content of the BTEC Applied Science course has been developed in consultation with higher education to support progression to degree-level study.
Students who have taken Applied Science at Coombe have gone on to study for degrees in Biomedical Science, Sports Science, Nursing, Environmental Science, Pharmacology, Psychology and related subjects.
This course will also support transition directly to the workplace and onto apprenticeships.
Applied Science can lead to careers such as: