Applied Science (Vocational)

Outline

The course gives you a broad foundation across biology, chemistry and physics, with a strong emphasis on applying scientific knowledge through practical laboratory work and scientific investigation.

Biology

Explore areas including cells, tissues, human body systems, physiology, genetics and genetic engineering.

Chemistry

Study bonding and structure, organic chemistry, industrial chemical reactions, analytical techniques and practical chemical analysis.

Physics

Develop your understanding of areas including waves, energy and the medical applications of physics.

Practical Science and Laboratory Skills

Practical science is a major part of the programme. You will develop laboratory techniques including:

• Accurate measurement
• Preparation of solutions
• Titration
• Chromatography
• Spectroscopy
• Analytical methods
• Safe working and good laboratory practice

You will also plan and carry out scientific investigations, analyse results, assess the quality of scientific evidence and complete an extended investigative project.

Units studied

The programme includes:

• Unit 1 – Principles and Applications of Science I
• Unit 2 – Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
• Unit 3 – Science Investigation Skills
• Unit 4 – Laboratory Techniques and their Application
• Unit 5 – Principles and Applications of Science II
• Unit 6 – Investigative Project
• Unit 7 – Contemporary Issues in Science
• Unit 8 – Physiology of Human Body Systems
• Unit 11 – Genetics and Genetic Engineering
• Unit 14 – Applications of Organic Chemistry
• Unit 18 – Industrial Chemical Reactions
• Unit 19 – Practical Chemical Analysis
• Unit 21 – Medical Physics Applications

Work experience

All students must complete 30 hours of work experience alongside their academic programme, providing an opportunity to develop professional skills and experience in a workplace setting.

You should also be prepared for regular independent study outside lessons, including revision, coursework, scientific research, preparation for practical work and managing multiple assignment deadlines.

Progression

Applied Science can support progression to university, higher or degree apprenticeships and science-related employment.

Biomedical and Life Sciences

Potential progression areas include:

• Biomedical Science
• Biochemistry
• Genetics and Genomics
• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology
• Biological Sciences
• Health Sciences

Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Potential routes include:

• Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Pharmacy
• Pharmacology
• Analytical Chemistry
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Formulation and Manufacturing
• Quality Control and Quality Assurance
• Toxicology

Forensic, Laboratory and Research Careers

The course can also support progression towards areas including:

• Forensic Science
• Biomedical and Clinical Laboratory Science
• Research and Development
• Laboratory and Scientific Technical Roles

University and apprenticeship entry requirements vary, so you should check your intended progression route carefully, including any requirements for particular units, grades or GCSE subjects.

Entry Requirements

The course is assessed through a combination of external assessment and internally assessed coursework.

External Assessment – approximately 42%

Units 1, 3, 5 and 7 are externally assessed by Pearson.

External assessment does not necessarily mean a conventional written examination. The format varies between units and can include externally set tasks as well as examinations.

Coursework – approximately 58%

The remaining units are assessed through assignments completed throughout the course. These are marked internally and subject to Pearson quality assurance.

Each unit contributes points towards your final qualification grade, meaning both coursework and externally assessed units make an important contribution to your overall result.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

Apply

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