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BTEC Single Applied Science

Applied Science

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Course Overview

Qualification: A Level Courses

This is a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (Alternative Academic Qualification, equivalent to 1 A level)

  • The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science provides opportunities to learn in real, relatable and practical ways to ensure you develop the critical knowledge and transferable skills you need for the future.
  • This will give you the confidence to progress to university, where the qualification is accepted and supported, having been developed in partnership with them to ensure you end up with the right combination of knowledge and skills for success in higher education.
  • We use a combination of assessment styles to give you the confidence to apply your knowledge to succeed in the workplace and develop the study skills to continue learning throughout your career.
  • If you’re interested in learning about the science sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a range of higher education courses, but not necessarily in science, then this course is for you. It is taken as part of a programme of study including two other A Levels.
  • There are internal and examined assessments of equal weighting across biology, chemistry and physics, which allow you to showcase your knowledge and skills to best effect when you take your next step, such as higher education, an apprenticeship or employment.
  • 50% of the assessment is done by internal assessment, 50% by exams.
  • The course is delivered in a variety of ways to help you to develop a range of skills. There are laboratory-based practical assignments, supported by self-study, presentations, group work and discussion.
  • Throughout your course you will be taught by specialist Biology, Chemistry and Physics teachers and supported by a team of technicians.
  • Lessons are taught in specialist laboratories with access to equipment which enables you to develop your practical skills.
  • Studying for the Extended Certificate allows you to choose two of a wide range of A level subjects alongside to support your interests and career ambitions.
  • There is also an opportunity for learners to join our STEM Programme enrichment.

An AAQ is a 2-year vocational course, equivalent to one A level. It is studied alongside two other A level courses. You will study a total of 5 units across two years which include:

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Biology (Exam)
Unit 2: Principles and Applications of Chemistry (Exam)
Unit 3: Principles and Applications of Physics (Exam)
Unit 4: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques (Internal)
Unit 5: Scientific Investigation Skills (Internal)

50% of the course is externally assessed by exam; 50% is internally assessed by assignments.
Examining Board – Pearson.
This 5-unit qualification is the equivalent of one A Level. Grades are awarded from Distinction* to Pass.

Grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics and English Language and two grade 4s from Biology, Chemistry and Physics or grade 4-4 in Combined Science. In addition to standard entry requirements.

Cannot be taken alongside A Level Biology, A Level Chemistry or A Level Physics.

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements for many courses if taken alongside other qualifications as part of a two-year programme of learning, including, but not exclusively, those which are science-related. The qualification can be taken as part of a diverse programme, leaving progression options fully open. It can also give context to subjects which would benefit from some scientific background. This will depend on the combination of qualifications chosen.

The qualification can lead to progression to the following degrees, although there are many others:
BSc (Hons) Applied Sport and Exercise Science
BSc (Hons) Nursing
BSc (Hons) Secondary Science Education

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The following subjects would be suitable to combine with this qualification: Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Sport, Health and Social Care.

This information is correct for September 2025 entry.


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