Applied Science

We offer three OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical courses in Applied Science:

• Extended Certificate in Applied Science (equivalent to 1 A level)
• Diploma in Applied Science – Human Science Pathway (equivalent to 2 A levels)
• Extended Diploma in Applied Science (equivalent to 3 A levels)

Can’t choose between which sciences to take and wish to maintain an element of science in a broader study programme? Do you prefer to learn in a way that’s practical and work-related? Then Applied Science is for you! The range of Cambridge Technicals in Applied Science has been developed for learners aged 16+ who enjoy the sciences and want to learn how to apply their skills, knowledge, and understanding in ways that are relevant to work. The course covers the traditional disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics, while also considering new innovations in these areas. This qualification is designed in collaboration with experts spanning the breadth of the sector and focuses on the skills, knowledge, and understanding that today’s universities and employers demand.

It is recommended that learners starting these qualifications will have achieved grade 4 or above in Science, Maths, and English GCSEs. The main purpose of these qualifications is to develop the scientific principles and practical techniques that will prepare learners to progress to higher education or employment in areas related to laboratory science such as Life Sciences, Biological Science, Food Science, and Environmental Science. This course also complements other science-based qualifications studied at A Level or equivalent, such as Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Food Science, Sport Science, and Health and Social Care.

What will you study and learn?

You will study some of the traditional aspects of A level Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. You will carry out experiments safely and accurately when testing products to yield results that can be used to inform the next stage in a scientific process. You will also have the opportunity to collect and analyse primary data.

You will also:

• learn fundamental biological, chemical, and physical principles underlying laboratory science;
• practise experimental scientific techniques and explore how they are applied in industry;
• gain transferrable skills necessary to perform laboratory techniques in the workplace;
• learn in work-related contexts;
• explore ways in which topical scientific issues are presented in the media;
• investigate the role of scientists and the different career pathways open to you;
• develop skills for independent learning.

Course content and examinations

Extended Certificate in Applied Science (equivalent to 1 A level)

What does this qualification cover?

Every learner will study five mandatory units which focus on the laboratory techniques and scientific principles:

• Science Fundamentals
• Laboratory Techniques
• Control of Hazards in the Laboratory
• Product Testing Techniques
• Microbiology

Diploma in Applied Science – Human Science Pathway (equivalent to 2 A levels)

What does this qualification cover?

Everybody will study three units on:

• Science Fundamentals
• Laboratory Techniques
• Scientific Analysis and Reporting

Those taking the Human Science pathway must also take:

• Human Physiology
• Genetics
• Control of Hazards in the Laboratory
• Testing Consumer Products

All learners take a further four units from a range of optional topics, which include:

• Human Physiology
• Human Nutrition
• Waste Management
• Microbiology
• Crop Production and Soil Science
• Sustainable and Renewable Energy
• Conservation of Biodiversity
• Cell Biology
• Drug Development

Extended Diploma in Applied Science (equivalent to 3 A levels)

This qualification contains 13 mandatory units as follows:

• Science Fundamentals
• Laboratory Techniques
• Scientific Analysis and Reporting
• Human Physiology
• Genetics
• Control of Hazards in the Laboratory
• Human Nutrition
• Cell Biology
• Environmental Surveying
• Environmental Management
• Waste Management
• Global Scientific Information
• Scientific Research Techniques

Plus, a further two units from:

• Drug Development
• Sustainability and Renewable Energy
• Food Technology
• Microbiology
• Crop Production and Soil Science
• Conservation of Biodiversity

All three qualifications have both examinations and controlled assessment tasks.

Examinations: Each exam is made up of a mixture of short and long answer questions (similar in structure to GCSE questions) and will test knowledge, understanding, and application.

Controlled Assessment Tasks: For each controlled assessment task, you will be given a scenario of a workplace, e.g., a biosafety laboratory, and will be told what you need to do to achieve a pass, merit, and distinction grade. Your teachers will support you while you complete these tasks.

Where could the subject take you?

This qualification is supported by a range of universities, and taken alongside other qualifications it can fulfil the entry requirements for a number of science-related higher education courses, including biomedical, forensic and sports science, as well as nursing. In addition, the qualification is eligible for UCAS points.