APPLIED SCIENCE Advanced Technical Award Level 3 Extended Diploma

Level 3
Further Education
Armagh Campus
Newry Campus
Pearson

Overview

The Level 3 Advanced Technical Award in Applied Science is an engaging and comprehensive programme designed to provide students with a solid foundation in scientific principles and practical skills. This course offers an in-depth exploration of various scientific disciplines, enabling students to develop a broad understanding of scientific methods and its applications.

Throughout the course, students will study key scientific concepts and theories across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and physics. They will explore topics such as cellular biology, chemical reactions, forces and motion, energy, and environmental science. Students will gain a strong theoretical knowledge base, which will be further enhanced through practical laboratory work and hands-on experiments.

This level 3 is ideal for anyone wishing to begin a career in the areas of laboratory and industrial science, forensic science, biomedical science, biological science, environmental biology, human health and nutrition, microbiology, nursing as well as other potential career pathways.

The Advanced Technical Award includes the completion of a Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science (the equivalent of 3 A-Levels), alongside Project Based Learning and work placement.

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age on or before 1st July 2024 and have recently been in education to key stage 4 (completion of compulsory education).
The College will review the qualifications and/or experience held by applicants and will consider whether this profile shows an ability to progress towards a level 3 qualification.
Applicants must have achieved the following:

15 points or greater at GCSE, consisting of at least 4 GCSE at Grade C (or equivalent qualification profile from the Register of Regulated Qualifications). In certain circumstances the College may reduce this requirement if it is deemed that the candidate has demonstrated the commitment, understanding and knowledge of the subject. For the Applied Science course, applicants must have achieved at least a GCSE Grade C in Maths and a GCSE Grade C in a science subject.
A BTEC Level 2 Diploma or equivalent at Pass or above with an overall profile equating to 15 points.
A NVQ Level 2 (in relevant subject area).
Leaving Certificate – a profile equivalent to 12 points (of which 3 subjects must be achieved at Grade C3 or better at Ordinary Level) pre-2017. From 2017 onwards, 3 subjects must be achieved at 04 or better at Ordinary Level.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.
Applicants who do not possess GCSE English Language at Grade C or higher (or equivalent) must be able to demonstrate as part of their application they can communicate in written and spoken English language to an acceptable level to succeed in the course. The College reserves the right to refer any applicant to appropriate English language or literacy classes until their level of fluency in written and spoken English is sufficient to allow participation in other areas of study.
Students entering a full time Level 3 programme are expected to have already achieved a minimum of GCSE Grade C in English Language and Mathematics (or equivalent qualification). Applicants admitted to a full-time programme of study without these qualifications in will be required to undertake an Essential Skills course in Literacy and Numeracy. Applicants with a Grade D will also have the opportunity to undertake repeat classes in GCSE English Language and/or Mathematics.

The course consists of the following mandatory modules:

Principles and Applications of Science 1*
Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
Scientific Investigative Skills*
Laboratory Techniques and their Applications
Principles and Applications of Science 2*
Investigative Project
Contemporary Issues in Science

(* externally assessed via examination).

Optional modules may include (subject to change):

Physiology of Human Body Systems
Disease and Infection
Industrial Chemical Reactions
Practical Chemical Analysis
Biomedical Science
Medicinal Physics Applications

Students will study 13 modules over two years. Four modules will be externally assessed by the awarding body via examinations. The remaining 9 modules will be assessed through a range of coursework methods, including group work, essays, research projects, practical investigations, written reports and presentations.

Upon successful completion of the Level 3 in Applied Science, students will have acquired a solid foundation in scientific knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for further study or entry-level positions in various scientific fields.

Graduates may choose to pursue higher education in areas such as biology or biomedical sciences, environmental health and sciences, food science, forensic science, sports science, nursing, podiatry, physiotherapy, radiography and paramedic science.

Alternatively, graduates may also choose to pursue a foundation degree higher level apprenticeship in applied industrial sciences.

This programme can lead to careers such as laboratory technician, research assistant, science educator or work within healthcare or the life sciences industry.