Applied Sciences
The College of Richard Collyer In Horsham - West Sussex
01403210822
Hurst Road, Horsham, RH12 2EJ
Course summary

The BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Applied Science are for students seeking an A-level standard science qualification who wish to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education or apprenticeships and ultimately employment in the applied science sector. Over 95% of universities (including Russell Group) and a wide range of employers highly value BTEC qualifications. A qualification in Applied Science can lead to many degree level science courses* including: Psychology, Environmental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Medical professions, Food Science, Communication Industry, Satellite Communications and Materials Science. *when combined with appropriate A-level subjects. Students will study across all three sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics covering topics including: fundamental chemical and physical principals, structure and function of cells, physiology and disease, astronomy and space science, electromagnetic waves and satellite communication amongst many other fascinating areas of cutting edge science. We offer both the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science (single award, 1 A-level equivalent) and the BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science (double award, 2 A-level equivalent). The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate is designed to be studied alongside two other Level 3 courses including BTECs and A-levels. The BTEC Level 3 National Diploma is designed to be a substantive part of a 16-19 study programme with a strong science focus, and would be taken alongside one other Level 3 course including BTECs and A-levels. Both programs are studied over two years.

Entry requirements

3 x grade 4’s from three Single Award GCSE Sciences, or 2 x grade 4 from Double award GCSE Science + grade 4 in Maths. Grade 5’s in GCSE Sciences and Maths are preferred.

How you'll be assessed

Year 1: Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I: A theory-based unit covering key concepts in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. 90 hours of study. (Biology = 30 marks; Chemistry = 30 marks; Physics = 30 marks). Externally assessed: 3 x 40-minute exams sat in January of the first year. Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques: A practical-based unit introducing students to quantitative laboratory techniques (in titration and colorimetry), calibration, chromatography, calorimetry and laboratory safety. 90 hours of study. Internally assessed via laboratory work and practical reports assessed throughout the first year. Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills A practical-based unit covering the stages involved and skills needed in planning a scientific investigation. Topics covered include enzymes, diffusion, plant growth, fuels & circuits. 120 hours of study Externally assessed: 1 x 2 hour 15 minute exam sat in May/June of year 1. Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems A theory and practical-based unit covering 3 human body systems (musculoskeletal, lymphatic and digestive). 60 hours of study Internally assessed via a series of written case study research reports. Year 2: Unit 5: Principles and Applications of Science II A theory-based unit that builds on the fundamentals covered in Unit 1. 120 hours of study (Biology = 40 marks; Chemistry = 40 marks; Physics = 40 marks). Externally assessed: 3 x 50-minute exams sat in January of year 2 Unit 4: Laboratory Techniques and their Application A practical and theory-based unit that covers the importance of health and safety in workplace laboratories, how data is managed in a scientific workplace and how organic compounds are made and tested industrially. 90 hours of study. Internally assessed via written reports and laboratory work. Unit 6: Investigative Project A practical based unit that enables students to gain an understanding and skills required to undertake an investigative project. 90 hours of study. Internally assessed: students complete a scientific literature review to produce a plan before carrying out their investigation and reporting their results and conclusions. Unit 16: Astronomy and Space Science A theory and practical-based unit covering the principles and present-day understanding of developments in astronomy. 60 hours of study. Internally assessed via a series of written reports on the principles of astronomy and the technology of space exploration, in addition to practical work observing day and night sky objects.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityWest Sussex
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressHurst Road, Horsham, RH12 2EJ