Applied Science (AAQ: Certificate)
This alternative science qualification is the equivalent to half an A-level if you need a science mix in your A-level portfolio. There is a second year available, making the qualification the equivalent of a full A-level, or you can finish in one year to be certificated at the half A-level point.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This Applied Science course is aimed at school leavers and Year 2 A-level students who need to top up their programme.
Entry Requirements
Science GCSE grades at 5,5 for Combined Science or 5,5,5 if Triple.
What will you learn?
Biology:
- Cell structure and function
- Microscopy
- Photosynthesis
- Cellular respiration
- Biological molecules
- Distribution of organisms
- Sampling
Chemistry:
- Atomic structure
- Periodic table
- Amount of substance
- Bonding
- Structure and properties
- Organic chemistry
- Rates of reaction
- Enthalpy changes
Physics:
- Circuits
- Energy
- X-rays
- Ultrasound and radioactivity
Investigating Science:
- Researching
- Designing
- Conducting
- Practical skills
- Recording data
- Analysing
- Conclusions
- Communicating
- Evaluating
How will you learn?
There is classroom and laboratory work, with an emphasis on applying skills.
What will you need to bring with you?
You need enthusiasm and a willingness to undertake practical work: this course is for those who enjoy practical science. All equipment is provided.
How will you be assessed?
There are three 40-minute exams each for Chemistry, Physics and Biology.
There is NEA (like coursework and internally assessed) for Investigating Science.
Where next?
You can consider university (HE) in a variety of subjects including Science or take another A-level to boost your UCAS points. Our students have always achieved very well.
If you are seeking an apprenticeship, having a Level 3 Science qualification does not hurt in such areas as planning, construction and environmental management, to name but a few sectors.
Who do you contact for more information?
patrick.ring@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
Natural and Social Science Professionals
£33669
Biological Scientists
£27841
Chemical Scientists
£31716
Social and Humanities Scientists
£30685
Laboratory Technicians
£25044
Physical Scientists
£32587
Biochemists and Biomedical Scientists
£35470
Science, Engineering and Production Technicians
£34683
Conservation Professionals
£24162
Environment Professionals
£31564
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Applications for 2025 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Clearing Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 27th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2025
Course Information Last Updated On: July 11, 2025 10:04 am
