Extended Diploma in Applied Science

You’ll be studying in our state-of-the-art science laboratories and will gain an understanding of what skills scientists need to respond to an ever changing world.

This exciting two year course involves a mixture of mandatory units and six optional units which cover the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths. Topics you will study include biochemical and microbiological laboratory techniques, genetics, physiology and applied chemistry.

Applied Science students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning, be keen researchers, critical thinkers as well as being well organised. You should enjoy having more freedom in the direction of your learning, while knowing you can still ask for help or support if you need it.

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science is a 180 credit course, which covers a wide range of scientific areas and is broadly equivalent to three A Levels. Many of our past students have successfully gone on to study an array of science degrees at university from biomedical science to marine biology to midwifery.

You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above (including maths and English Language), in subjects relevant to your A Level or A+ Programme subject choices.

In addition, you will require GCSE grade 5-5 in Combined Science or Distinction at Level 2 BTEC Science, including English Language and Maths at GCSE at grade 5 or above

The course is assessed through a range of internal, external and synoptic assessments. Four units are assessed externally, and the external assessments are a mix of exams and set tasks which are set and marked by the awarding body. The final external assessment is synoptic and takes place in the second year of the course and gives learners an opportunity to independently select and apply learning from across their course in the completion of a vocational task. The majority of work is assessed internally and subject to verification processes; this is a mix of portfolio work, presentations, practical work and essays.

If you wish to find out more you can contact Hilary Bathgate, Subject Leader, by emailing: hilary.bathgate@nscg.ac.uk

A vast array of potential university courses or job opportunities will be open to you including biochemist, biologist, biomedical scientist, biotechnologist, botanist, chemical engineering technician, crime scene investigator/scenes of crime officer, environmental scientist, food scientist/technologist, forensic crime analyst, forensic scientist, information scientist, laboratory technician, materials technician, medical laboratory, midwifery and nursing. Many of our past students have successfully gone on to study a wide range of courses at university.

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18. If you are outside this age group, please contact Charlotte Robertson on 01782 254141 or email charlotte.robertson@nscg.ac.uk.

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under £26,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance