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Course Content
360 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) - Equivalent in size to one A Level.
6 units of which 5 are mandatory and learners are required to achieve one optional unit from a choice of three.
- External Assessment (50%) – 3 exams
- Internal Assessment (50%) – 3 portfolios
This qualification is aimed at 16 to 18 year old learners who are in full-time Level 3 education and who wish to progress to higher education and/or pursue a career in the applied science sector.
This qualification will provide learners with a broad understanding of vocationally-related sciences to support progress to higher education. It is suitable for studying alongside substantial academic science qualifications, such as A Level sciences or other Level 3 vocational qualifications. This qualification can also prepare learners to take up employment in the applied science sector, either directly after achieving the qualification or via higher education.
Studying this qualification will enable learners to develop their knowledge and understanding of scientific principles, as well as those scientific practical skills recognised by higher education institutions and employers to be most important. The qualification also offers learners an opportunity to develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, research and communication as part of their applied learning.
Mandatory units –
- Unit 1 - Key Concepts in Science
- Unit 2 - Applied Experimental Techniques
- Unit 3 - Science in the Modern World
- Unit 4 - The Human Body
- Unit 5 - Investigating Science
Optional units –
- Unit 6a - Microbiology
- Unit 6b - Medical Physics
- Unit 6c - Organic Chemistry
Assessment
This qualification contains externally assessed and internally assessed units. Externally assessed units are assessed by written examination. Internally assessed units are externally moderated by AQA.
All units are graded Pass, Merit or Distinction. The overall qualification is graded as P, M, D and D*. Learners must pass each unit in order to pass the qualification.
Entry Requirements
Students are required a Merit grade in Level 2 Applied Science or grade 4 in Science GCSE.
Career Progression
The AQA Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science has been developed with a wide range of higher education institutions to ensure that the best possible progression opportunities are available to courses at Foundation and/or BSc degree level.
This qualification is supported by a range of universities, and taken alongside other qualifications it can fulfil the entry requirements for a number of science-related higher education courses, including biomedical, forensic and sports science, as well as nursing. In addition, the qualification is eligible for UCAS points.