Health, Science and Social Care Professions

Applied Science Level 3 Full-Time

In Brief

Start Date / Duration

This course starts in September 2024 and will take two years to complete.

Entry requirements

You will need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English at grade 5 or above and Science (Combined) at grade 5 or above.

All applicants must have a positive reference and excellent attendance record.

You will achieve

You will achieve either a Level 3 Extended Certificate/Foundation Diploma/Extended Diploma in Applied Science.

Course Code

FAPS

Course overview

A science course at Barnsley College will broaden your theoretical knowledge through experiments and practical activities. Applied science can lead to work or further study on the science industry.

With the Level 3 Applied Science course, you will be able to further your knowledge in chemistry, physics and biology. During this course you will study advanced science practices and techniques which will prepare you for further study. These programmes are designed to provide either an introduction to science or pathways onto Higher Education to study a science-based degree. You may need to undertake a Foundation Degree (FdA) to cement your knowledge in certain science-based subjects such as Chemistry.

You will study in science laboratories and be supported by industry experienced and highly qualified tutors who will support you to reach your full potential and realise your career aspirations. Careers that you may continue into include Biomedical Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemistry,
Biology, Healthcare Science, Paramedic Science or Forensic Science, or a career in the science industry.

Course content

You will undertake study of topics such as reproduction, microbiological techniques, genetics and forensic evidence, collection and analysis.

Course themes for Extended Certificate:

  • Introduction to the three sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics
  • Developing a varied skill set of scientific practical techniques
  • Understanding health and safety, risks and regulations associated with working in the science industry
  • Developing scientific writing skills

Course themes for Foundation Diploma and Extended Diploma:

  • Theoretical knowledge of Biology, Chemistry and Physics
  • Development of a vast array of scientific practical techniques within numerous scientific fields
  • Understanding of legislation relating to working in the science industry
  • Development of basic laboratory technician skills
  • Preparation for a career in the science industries
  • In depth knowledge of complex concepts such as contemporary issues in science and human body regulation
  • Ability to use mathematical and statistical formulae and calculations
  • Advanced academic and scientific writing skills

You will be continually assessed on this programme through a wide variety of course work, which may take several forms e.g. an essay, a report, a presentation, and /or group work. You will also be assessed through examinations. You will need to complete and achieve a minimum of a pass grade for all your assignment work to be awarded the BTEC 90 Credit Diploma in Applied Science.

No specialist equipment is required, although access to a computer and the internet from home would be of benefit. A text book will be required for some subjects.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Centre
Old Mill Lane
Barnsley
S70 2LA

These can include roles such as:

  • Working as a quality control technician/analyst, where the employee works in a production plant laboratory carrying out analytical tests using modern instrumentation, ICT and data interpretation
  • Working in a hospital as a medical physics technician supporting the use of X-ray and other imaging/ scanning equipment
  • Working in a research laboratory in the development of new drugs. Managing projects that include setting up apparatus, measuring and handling chemical substances, following procedures, carrying out observations and measurements, separating and analysing products

See what careers are available in the Health and Social Care and Applied Science sectors. Use our online careers tool, Career Coach, to find out what your next steps could be.

How much does the course cost?

If you’re aged 16-18, you will not have to pay for this course. Contact the Info team for more information on fees and funding.

16 – 18 year olds

Full-time Barnsley College students aged 16-18 years old do not have to pay tuition fees.

19+ Students

Aged 19 or over and thinking about Further Education?

You may be eligible for free or reduced course fees . Please refer to our page ‘paying for your course.’

Extra information

This course may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

For eligibility information and details about how to apply, visit the Advanced Learner Loan page. Or contact our Information Team by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk

For further information please contact our friendly Information Team on +44 (0)1226 216 123 or email info@barnsley.ac.uk

Barnsley College has a range of sports opportunities for all students to take part in, gain professional training and compete nationally and internationally. We also have a state-of-the-art fitness village, Honeywell Sports Village where students can make use of our fitness suite, spinning studio and classes for competitive rates. You don’t have to be studying sport to get involved in the Sports Academy.

Our Additional Learning Support team can provide you with the support you need. Call 01226 216 769 for further information.

Having good English and Maths qualifications are important for most careers and we want to give you the help you need to succeed.

If you are aged 16 – 19 and don’t hold a grade C/4 or above in GCSE English and Maths, you will automatically be included in your study programme. If you want to work towards achieving a higher grade in English and Maths, we can help you do that too and we offer Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) which can be added to your study programme.

If you’re aged 19 or above and don’t hold a a grade C/4 or above in GCSE English and Maths we can help. We offer FREE English and Maths qualifications that can be studied on a part-time basis, subject to eligibility.

If you need any further information, please contact our Information Team by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing info@barnsley.ac.uk

Please note we reserve the right to change details without notice. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Applied Science Level 3 Full-Time

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