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. A second year is 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 course is ideal for academic learners who need a science qualification in their portfolio but do not want to commit to the full science A-levels in one subject. It carries the same UCAS points as one full A-level.
Entry Requirements
GCSE Maths, English and Science at grade 5, ie: Combined Science 5,5 or Triple Science 5,5,5.
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
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.
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Course Information Last Updated On: October 20, 2025 10:01 am
