AQA Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science

This qualification is equivalent to 1 A level and will provide learners with a broad understanding of vocationally-related sciences to support progress to higher education. It is suitable for studying alongside substantial academic science qualifications, such as A-level sciences or other Level 3 vocational qualifications. This qualification can also prepare learners to take up employment in the applied science sector, either directly after achieving the qualification or via higher education.

Studying this qualification will enable learners to develop their knowledge and understanding of scientific principles, as well as those scientific practical skills recognised by higher education institutions and employers to be most important. The qualification also offers learners an opportunity to develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, research and communication as part of their applied learning.

Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science

Unit summary

1 Key concepts in science

2 Applied experimental techniques

3 Science in the modern world

Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science

Unit summary

4 The human body

5 Investigating science Optional: learners study one of the three options below

6a Microbiology

6b Medical physics

6c Organic chemistry

Mandatory

1 Key concepts in science Written exam

2 Applied experimental Techniques Portfolio

3 Science in the modern world Written exam with pre-release material

4 The human body Written exam

5 Investigating science Portfolio

Optional

6a Microbiology Portfolio

6b Medical physics Portfolio

6c Organic chemistry Portfolio

GCSE grade 5 in Biology, Chemistry & Physics or GCSE grade 5 and 5 in the Combined Award Science and a grade 5 in Mathematics.

The AQA Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science has been developed with a wide range of higher education institutions to ensure that the best possible progression opportunities are available to courses at Foundation and/or BSc degree level.

As this qualification contains both examined and assignment-based assessment (both externally and internally assessed), the learner should be better prepared to adjust to the learner-centred ethos of higher educational study.