This Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science is equivalent to one A Level.

This course is for students interested in learning about the Applied Science sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses. This course can be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other BTEC Nationals or A Levels.

An optional unit is also studied to broaden the students’ understanding and to support any future career aspirations.

How is the Course Structured?

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science is equivalent to one A Level and is comprised of four units. Three of these units are mandatory:

• Principles and Applications of Science

• Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques

• Science Investigation Skills

The remaining unit is optional and can be selected from choices such as Genetics and Genetic Engineering or Electrical Circuits and their Application.

• Assessment

  There are three methods by which this course will be assessed:

• Assignments set and marked internally;

• Tasks set and marked by the examining body;

• Written examinations set and marked by the examining body.

  The mandatory Unit 2 and the optional unit are assessed using assignments which are set and marked internally usually involving practical projects. Mandatory Unit 1 is assessed using a written examination, set and marked by the examining body which will require students to recall and apply technical knowledge.

  The remaining mandatory Unit 3 is assessed via tasks set and marked by the examining body which will involve applying their learning to ‘real life’ situations.

The grading of this course ranges from pass through to distinction* which are equivalent to A Level grades and will have a specific number of UCAS points associated with them.

Overall PASS - Equivalent to E grade.
Overall MERIT - Equivalent to C grade.
Overall DISTINCTION - Equivalent to A grade. Overall

DISTINCTION * - Equivalent to A* grade.

Progression Routes

Applied Science is a good choice for students looking
to progress into careers such as Nursing, Healthcare, Sport Science, Support Services, Laboratory Technician, assisting with Chemical, Biological and Physical Research, Education and Manufacturing Industries.