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Applied science

Applied Science

AAQ Applied Science Extended Certificate 

Biology, Chemistry and Physics in a way that emphasises the practical application of each.

Why study Applied Science?   

You will cover a broad range of topics and skills from Biology, Chemistry and Physics. There is also a large amount of practical work in this subject which will enable you to develop your laboratory skills and work safely and accurately in a work-based environment. 

We run two different courses at Winstanley College. The AAQ Applied Science Extended Certificate Pearson BTEC course is equivalent to one A-level and the Applied Human Science Diploma OCR Cambridge Technical course is equivalent to two A-levels. 

 

What will I study?

Course content for the AAQ Applied Science Extended Certificate.

The five units are:

  • Biology (unit 1)
  • Chemistry (unit 2)
  • Physics (unit 3)
  • Scientific Procedures and Techniques (unit 4)
  • Science Investigation Skills (unit 5) or Contemporary Issues in Science (unit 6) 

Course content for the Applied Human Science Diploma covers:  

  • Science fundamentals (unit 1) 
  • Laboratory techniques (unit 2) 
  • Control of hazards in the laboratory 
  • Microbiology 
  • Product testing techniques 

plus an extra four coursework units and one extra examination (unit 3) to further your understanding of the scientific principles of all science subjects and the wider impact of science within society. 

 

Entry requirements

5 or above in any Science

Which exam board & how will I be assessed?

AAQ Pearson BTEC Qualifications 

Units 1-3 are externally assessed by examination. Units 4-6 are internally assessed. 

OCR Cambridge Technical Qualifications 

Units 1-3 are assessed via written examinations. All other units are assessed via coursework marked internally. 

Where could it take me?

Students have taken up places on undergraduate courses at a wide variety of universities, 

while others have taken up highly sought-after apprenticeships. Both courses can take you on to a variety of careers including nursing, sports science, physiotherapy, health care, primary education, midwifery, laboratory technician and much more. 

Subject combinations

Students taking one of our courses usually don’t take any pure science subjects, so these are great courses if you are planning on taking Physical Education, Health Studies, Engineering, Sociology, Criminology or Psychology and would like Applied Science to back them up. 

What support is available?

We provide you with one-to-one or group tutorials, course booklets, access to video lessons, practical skills sessions, quizzes, further reading and a bank of key questions to test yourself on. 

You will receive help with choosing which university and course is right for you; we’ll support your development of interview skills. 

What extracurricular activities are available?

Biology Olympiad, Nuffield Bursary Scheme, educational visits to university and research laboratories, Biology Book Club, STEM Club and guest speakers. 

Did you know?

Vocational courses have far more practical work than any of the individual pure science subjects. Students studying an Applied Science course at Winstanley College are most likely to finish the course with a Distinction* or Distinction. .

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