Make the most of these extraordinary times and gain a nationally-recognised qualification. A short online course is a significant first step to improving your skills and achieving your career goals.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Equivalent to 1 A-level.
This practical, work-related course allows you to study aspects of biology, chemistry and physics to an advanced level. You will complete practical and theoretical assignments, which are assessed as coursework, and three units which are assessed by exam (two in the first year and one in the second).
In year 1: for the CAMTEC Level 3 Diploma there are two exam units:
• Unit 1 – Science Fundamentals
• Unit 2 – Laboratory Techniques
There are also three coursework units:
• Unit 6 – Control of Hazards in the Laboratory
• Unit 18 – Microbiology
• Unit 10 -; Product Testing Techniques
There are four more units in year 2 (one exam, three coursework), covering more in-depth and practical aspects of biology and chemistry and their applications in a scientific workplace.
Biology covers aspects such human body systems, microbiology, genetics and cell biology.
Chemistry includes topics such as atomic structure, practical chemical analysis and laboratory techniques, industrial applications of chemistry and the development of pharmaceutical drugs.
Physics covers energy and the structures, properties and uses of material.
You will carry out many experiments some of which you will design yourself, learning how to analyse and evaluate your results. There will be lessons where you undertake independent and group research, discuss scientific issues, research information online, revise topics and practice exam techniques. You will develop strong independent study skills throughout your time studying applied science. There is a work experience placement in an area relevant to your career aims in each year, which allows you to develop your industry work skills further.
Support sessions will be available to all students throughout the year.
FURTHER INFORMATION
You need a minimum of five GCSEs at 9-4, including double 4 in Science and a 4 in English Language and Mathematics.
You need a good knowledge of GCSE science as well as good numeracy, English and communication skills.
This should be combined with a real interest in science!
Combination with Criminology, Applied Psychology, Environmental Science or Engineering is popular. You could consider combining it with A Level Mathematics, Psychology or Geography. There is a wide range of contrasting non-scientific subjects that would enable you to achieve a good balance.
If you want to enter employment straight away you could work in areas such as a hospital or pharmaceutical laboratory. Alternatively, you may wish to progress to higher or further education or an apprenticeship. Past students have gone on to do degrees in biosciences, nursing, paramedic science or pharmacology. Some have progressed to studying subjects such as geology, psychology, sports science and business. In addition, some students have gone on to apprenticeships at GSK or got work as lab technicians. NB: this course is not normally recommended as a route into highly competitive areas such as medicine, dentistry or physiotherapy.
The three externally assessed units will be examination based (January and May). These are available twice a year. Internally assessed coursework units will help you build a portfolio of coursework.
TBC
You need a good knowledge of GCSE science as well as good numeracy, English and
communication skills. This should be combined with a real interest
in science!
Good time management, strong practical skills and analytical abilities, independent research skills, good ICT skills, good team- working skills and an interest in the application of science across chemistry and biology.
*FREE* Online short courses
Financial support
The applicable fees for this course, including any available discounts, will be listed in the information above.
How to apply
Once you have created an account, you can easily apply to your chosen course and track the status of your application at any time.
HOW THE APPLICATION PROCESS WORKS
Set Up Your Account
You’ll be prompted to create an account which will allow you to log in to our Application Tracker website whenever you wish. This will provide you with important information and you can also track the progress of your application.
Apply
Complete each step of the application form and then submit your completed form. We’ll let you know when we’ve safely received it with an acknowledgement email.
Application Review Meeting
Before offering you a place at college, we’ll meet with you (either in person, by telephone or online). We’ll send you a link to our booking page where you can select a time that’s convenient for you.
Accept Your Place
Offers will be sent to you via the email address you have provided. The offer will be conditional, based on predicted GCSE grades. You’ll need to accept your offer within 14 days to secure your place.
What next?
Once you receive your GCSE results, you’ll need to get in touch with the college to inform us of them and start your enrolment process.