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Key details

Course area
Science
Student types
16 - 18 coursesCourses for 19+ students
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 3
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
City Hub 111 Canal Street, Nottingham, NG1 7HB
Course code
Parent course code:C055924 Child course code: Q055925
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Course introduction

This course is perfect if you would like a career in a science-related field, and want to take your studies further, perhaps onto a degree. 

You’ll learn a full range of scientific principles across key areas such as biology, chemistry and physics. You’ll also do science-based fieldwork and practical laboratory experiments. In year 2 you will be able to select one of three options: Applied/Biomedical/Analytical and Forensic Science, tailored to meet career/university goals.

You can expect a professional study environment in well-equipped laboratories, and experienced tutors. You’ll carry out experiments and practical and theory-based assignments as well as exams.

You’ll also find out about career opportunities and get expert advice on next steps.

Aged 19 or over?

If you don't already hold a Level 3 qualification (equivalent to at least two A Levels, or a Level 3 vocational qualification), you can now study this course fully funded!

The Government’s new Free Courses for Jobs programme has created new opportunities for adults, aged 19 and over, to access fully funded full-time learning.

For more information, view our Free Courses for Jobs programme.

If you are aged 16-18 without having achieved a Level 3 qualification, you will also be eligible for full funding.

Course information

2 years

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma in Applied Science

You’ll need 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English Language and Maths, both of these must be at grades 9-4. You will also need to have all three Sciences at GCSE grade 9-4, Double Science, or a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification at Merit or above with English and Maths GCSE grades 9-4.

A combination of externally assessed exams and portfolio building.

Choose to follow with a degree-level course in an industrial or science-based subject, to help you move into further scientific research or laboratory work, or a career in medicine, chemistry, biochemistry or microbiology, natural sciences or forensics, for example.

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

Meet Brian, one of our Science lecturers!
Meet university level science student Louise
Meet Rose - a Science student at Nottingham College.
Student support at Nottingham College

Careers related to this course

Select career:

Physical Scientists

Potential Earnings

£55,122.08

Average Earnings

£32,586.99

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Natural Sciences

People in these occupations observe the natural order, formulate theories, run tests, and conduct experiments.

Skills

Science

Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

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