Applied Science
Engaging and inspiring, this work-related qualification will provide a practical, real-world approach to scientific learning and will give you the skills you need to either move on to higher education or go straight into employment.
Key features of the BTEC Level 3 National / Extended certificate in Applied Science are:
- Learners will acquire technical skills, knowledge and understanding enabling them to enter employment in the science sector.
- Learners are given the opportunity to develop a range of practical skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life.
- The course is 50% portfolio based and 50% examinations. The portfolio work is assessed continuously throughout the course, allowing the students to gauge their own performance on a continuing basis, just like in a real workplace. Students are more engaged and motivated as a result, as they can see and measure their own progress throughout the course.
The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Science is a 2 year course.
Over the two years students must complete 4 units:
- Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science 1
- Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
- Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills
- Unit 4: An optional unit chosen at the course leaders discretion
On completion of the course you will be awarded a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* based on your overall performance.
The National Extended Certificate is broadly equivalent to 1 GCE AS Level qualification.
The Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Applied Science can lead to a variety of scientific careers such as:
- Working as a quality control technician/analyst
- Laboratory carrying out analytical tests using modern instrumentation, ICT and data interpretation
- Working in a hospital as a medical technician
- Working in a research laboratory in the development of new drugs
- Working in the chemical industry, involved with testing materials
- Working with the forensic science service or using their analytical skills in the chemistry industry
