BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Science
The science of today is the technology of tomorrow. – Edward Teller
Exam Board
Pearson
Why should I study Applied Science?
Applied science is a course which gives you the chance to study a wide range of science topics over all three science disciplines - physics, chemistry and biology. It is ideal for those who want to study a wide-ranging science qualification alongside other subjects without having to specialise in just one science. This course will allow you to experience the full breadth of the world of science, helping you to identify areas of interest and your potential future specialisms. If you are interested in all three sciences and wish to deepen your understanding beyond GCSE, applied science is for you.
What will I study?
You will study a wide range of topics from biology, chemistry and physics. You will study topics such as the periodicity and properties of elements, the structure and functions of cells and tissues and waves in communication. You will cover the stages involved and the skills needed in planning a scientific investigation: how to record, interpret, draw scientific conclusions and evaluate. This will be assessed by a combination of external exams and internally assessed coursework. The lessons will be divided into theory and practical sessions.
The theory covers the ideas behind a subject. You would be expected to describe and explain ideas and prove theories using calculations. In a practical session, you would be expected at first to follow a set of instructions, make observations and record results. As your skills develop, you will plan your own practical work, ensuring at all times that it is safe, posit hypotheses and evaluate and statistically analyse your results.
How is BTEC Applied Science assessed?
In year 12 there are two units assessed by assignments and 1 three-part examination.
In year 13 there are 2 units assessed by assignments and 1 practical examination. The practical examination builds upon the work done on Unit 1 in year 12 and the second unit is a specialist topic which is assessed by a series of assignments which are internally assessed and moderated, and externally verified.
What can I study with Applied Science?
Psychology students gain skills in communication, critical and creative thinking, interpersonal awareness, problem solving and the ability to look at issues from different points of view. Therefore, psychology combines well with all subjects.
Where does a qualification in Science lead?
Anywhere you want it to! BTEC applied science not only opens doors to science related courses and careers but into caring professions such as nursing. Many DACA students have gone onto study science, sports science and nutrition degrees after studying this course.
After studying science, the world is your oyster!
Minimum subject requirements
At least a grade 5 in two of physics, chemistry or biology or a 5-5 in combined science and a grade 5 in maths.
DACA Biology Alumni
Name: Emma
High School: DACA
Subjects: Applied science, medical science, health and social care and EPQ
Now studying Dietetics at the University of Nottingham.
“The BTEC Science course was perfect for me as the syllabus covered the topics that I needed. The wide range of subjects studied really helped me get onto the course. The Science staff at DACA even helped me with an extra unit which made all the difference to my grades.”