Applied Science

Extended certificate (1 A-level equivalent)

Exam Board: Cambridge OCR

About the subject

The Level 3 AAQ Applied Science is a challenging course designed for students who wish to study a broad science course that centres on the practical, applied and investigative elements of science. The course is available as a single option equivalent to one A Level.

Students can progress to higher education or apprenticeships and ultimately employment in the applied science sector. An AAQ qualification in Applied Science may lead to many degree level science courses* including: Psychology, Environmental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Health and Nursing, Food Science, Forensics 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 and disease, electromagnetic waves and satellite communication amongst many other fascinating areas of cutting-edge science. Students will also carry out a research project of their own design.  Students are assessed though both exams and course work units.  Students may wish to combine the AAQ in Applied Science with other science A Levels including Electronics, Psychology, PE, Geology or Environmental Science.

Learning styles

The courses are delivered via a range of practical and theory-based sessions with an emphasis on the application of scientific principles across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students produce written reports, presentations, laboratory logs and case studies. Assessment is by internal assessment of laboratory work, written work and presentations and externally set and assessed written exams spaced over the course

Subject Combinations and Progression

Applied Science works well with the following science A-levels: Psychology, Geology, Environmental Science, Engineering and Electronics, but an also be combined with other contrasting A level courses. Students can progress directly into work, apprenticeships or to a wide range of science-based degree level courses including Biomedical Science, Sports Therapy, Paramedic Science, Radiography, Biological Life Sciences, Nursing, Veterinary Nursing and Applied Chemistry

Entry requirements

Grade 4+ in Maths and English and 4,4 in combined science or two separate sciences.