Course overview

The Applied Science BTEC route is designed as a two year, full time course that meets entry requirements in its own right for learners who want to progress to higher education courses in the applied science sector before entering employment.

Who is this course for?

The Applied Science BTEC Diploma is for students aged 16+ who want a practical, hands on science qualification that prepares them for university, apprenticeships, or employment in scientific and technical fields, especially those who prefer coursework and practical learning over traditional, terminal exam based routes.

Course content

Applied Science lasts two years, with a mixture of coursework and exams that are taken at intervals throughout the course.

There are four examined units spread throughout the course, each one has elements of biology, chemistry and physics.

• Principles and applications of science
• Science investigation skills
• Principles and applications of science

You will also complete a range of practical and theoretical topics which are assessed through coursework, including:

• Practical scientific procedures and techniques
• Laboratory techniques and their application
• An investigative project
• Physiology of human body systems
• Materials science

Assessment

Written exams

Students sit written exams that test advanced concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, and these are set and marked by Pearson.

These are taken at two points across the year (January and May) and can be resat within the course.

External assessment is 46% of the total grade through Units 1, 3 and 5.

Internal assessments (Coursework)

These are marked by teachers and moderated by Pearson.

Coursework includes:

• Laboratory reports
• Practical write ups
• Research assignments
• Presentations
• Data analysis tasks

These assessments allow students to demonstrate applied understanding and practical competence across biology, chemistry, physics, and lab safety.

Internal assessment is 54% of the total grade from mandatory and optional units.

Progression opportunities

Students can progress directly into work, apprenticeships or a wide range of science based degree level courses and careers including:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Sports Therapy
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Paramedic Science
• Radiography
• Biological Life Sciences
• Nursing
• Veterinary Nursing
• Applied Chemistry

Skills developed

By the end of the course, students will:

• Develop a strong understanding of scientific principles across biology, chemistry and physics
• Build practical laboratory and investigative skills
• Apply theoretical knowledge to real world scientific contexts
• Develop research, communication, and problem solving skills relevant to professional practice
• Build transferable skills including teamwork, organisation, independent learning, and reflective practice

“Develop practical laboratory skills and a strong understanding of scientific principles, applying your knowledge to real world contexts across biology, chemistry and physics.”