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Key details

Course areas
A LevelsScience
Student types
16 - 18 coursesA Levels
Course type
A Level 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:C000450 Child course code: Q047764
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Course introduction

This programme of study is perfect if you would like a career in a science-related field, and want to take your studies further, perhaps onto a degree in a wide-range of Scientific Disciplines. This course is equivalent to one A-Level and is designed to complement your other two A-Level choices. You’ll learn a full range of scientific principles across the key areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

It is equivalent in size to one A Level.

In the first year you will study 2 units:

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science:

The topic areas covered in this unit include: animal and plant cells; tissues; atomic structure and bonding; chemical and physical properties of substances related to their uses; waves and their application in communications.

The unit will be assessed by 3 x 40 minute written exams.

Unit 2: Scientific Practical Techniques

This unit introduces you to standard laboratory equipment and techniques, including titration, colorimetry, calorimetry, chromatography, calibration procedures and laboratory safety. Through the practical tasks in the unit, you will develop proficiency in the quantitative analytical techniques of titration and colorimetry, including learning to calculate the concentration of solutions. You will use measurement of temperature to study cooling curves and be introduced to paper and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). You will also have the opportunity to calibrate equipment and will be encouraged to be aware of the safety aspects of given laboratory procedures and techniques.

The unit will be assessed by 4 x written assignments.

In year 2 you will be able to select one of the many optional units on offer tailored to meet career/university goals. You can expect a professional study environment in well-equipped laboratories, and experienced tutors.

You’ll also find out about career opportunities and get expert advice on next steps. UCAS points from 16 for a Pass grade to 56 points for Distinction*.

A group of people standing around a banner stating 'Nottingham College - you're in good hands'.

You will be encouraged to participate in a 30-hour work placement while you are studying.

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Course information

2 years

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science

Five GCSEs at grade 4-9 including English Language and Maths.

Assessment is by a mixture of examinations and written assignments.

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.

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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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