Why should I study Applied Science?

The course is a two year course designed to meet the needs of post 16 students who wish to progress from GCSE or from BTEC science or OCR national science Level 2. First year of the course (the Certificate) is equivalent to AS level. The second year of the course (the Subsidiary Diploma) is equivalent to A level. Both courses are assessed through continuous assessment of written and practical work. There are no external exams. The course will allow students to acquire a science qualification required for an intended career in science or HE course.

What will I study?

Year 1
Unit 1: Fundamentals of Science
Unit 2: Working in the science industry
Unit 4: Scientific Practical Techniques

Topics Covered:

• Elements and chemical reactions
• Cell structure
• Microscopes
• Tissues and Organs
• Atoms, Molecules and Bonding
• Writing Scientific Reports
• Health and Safety
• Blood, Heart and Circulation
• Food, Diet and Health
• Analytical techniques
• Lungs and Breathing
• The Lymphatic System and Immunity
• Separation techniques and purity

Year 2
Unit 12: Physiology of Human Regulation and Reproduction
Unit 18: Genetics and Genetic Engineering
Unit 15: Microbiological techniques

Topics Covered:

• Homeostasis, the Kidneys and Urinary System
• The nervous system
• The Reproductive System
• Protein synthesis
• Cell division
• Genetics and inheritance
• Basic DNA technology
• Major Body Organs in health and disease
• The Immune System
• Microbiological techniques
• Micro-organisms - Bacteria, Fungi, Viruses
• Culturing Micro-organisms
• Microbial assay technique
• Cell pathology

What are the entry requirements?

Normal college entry requirements plus Grade C in any GCSE Science or Merit/Distinction in BTEC Science or OCR National Science Level 2. GCSE English grade C desirable.

What skills do I need?

An interest in science and Health/medicine.
Enthusiasm for practical and project work.
The ability to work independently.
A commitment to meeting deadlines.

How will I be taught?

• Practical work.
• Independent research tasks.
• Visits to industry and to health care providers.
• Demonstrations.
• DVDs.
• ICT / elearning

How is the course assessed?

All units are assessed by continuous assessment of written and practical work. There are no external exams.

What will this course prepare me for?

The course will allow students to acquire a science qualification required for an intended career in science or HE course.

Private Study

As an approximate guideline the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma requires 4-5 hours of additional study each week.

What materials will I need to purchase?

Not applicable.

Examining Board

EDEXCEL

BTEC in Applied Science (Biology) is for you if

You have an interest in science and living things, you enjoy practical work and would like to go on to a career in science or health care.

BTEC in Applied Science (Biology) is not for you if

You are poorly organised, struggle to manage your time effectively and often fail to meet deadlines.