APPLIED SCIENCE Advanced Technical Award Level 3 Extended Diploma

Level 3
Further Education
Armagh Campus
Newry Campus
Pearson BTEC

Overview

This course is for someone who wants to enter 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 Technical Award includes the completion of a Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science (the equivalent of 3 A-Levels), Project-Based Learning and work placement.

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course and have recently been in education to key stage 4 (completion of compulsory education).

Applicants should normally hold the following:

15 points or greater at GCSE, consisting of at least 4 GCSEs at Grade C, or equivalent. Applicants must have a GCSE profile which includes a GCSE Science and GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or above; OR
BTEC Level 2 First Diploma or equivalent at Pass or above with an overall profile equating to 15 points; OR
NVQ Level 2 (in relevant subject area); OR
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, or entry in 2018, 3 subjects must be achieved at 04 or better at Ordinary Level.
Applicants must have a GCSE profile which includes a GCSE Science and GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or above.

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.

Please note: 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.

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.

Attendance at Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (individual or group interviews) is advisable in the selection of candidates in all courses.

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):

Biological Molecules and Metabolic Pathways.
Applications of Organic Chemistry.
Microbiological Techniques.
Genetics and Genetic Engineering.
Industrial Chemical Reactions.
Medicinal Physics.

You 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.

Successful completion of the Technical Award is equivalent to 3 A-Levels and can lead directly onto Higher National Diplomas or Degree courses in applied sciences, forensic science or other science-related courses, for example: food science, sports science, nursing, podiatry, physiotherapy, radiography, microbiology, biomedical science, and environmental science.