Free BTEC Level 2 Applied Science Course in Manchester – The Manchester College City Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 2 Applied Science Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College City Campus, full-time over one year. You'll study scientific principles across topics including Biology and the Environment, Application of Chemical Substances, and Health Applications of Life Science. Practical work runs alongside theory throughout, so you learn how to work safely and precisely in a science setting. This level 2 btec applied science course covers areas relevant to process, industrial, medical, and forensic science.

Who this course is for

This Level 2 course is part of our Industry Excellence Academy for Science and is designed to support your transition to study T Levels. The course has been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares you for your future career.

On this T Level Transition programme you’ll complete a Level 2 Extended Certificate in Applied Science and spend 105 hours on an external work placement with an employer as well as gain a variety of transferable employability skills.

You’ll learn all about a wide range of topics including biology and the environment, application of chemical substances and health applications of life science to name a few.

All of the theory you learn on this qualification will be underpinned by practical work to ensure you understand how to work safely and precisely which is vital for a career in the science industry.

Those successful in gaining a place on the Transition Programmes will be eligible for the ‘T Award’, a package of benefits that includes:

  • £300 per year bursary*
  • Curriculum based incentives
  • Free branded work wear
  • Opportunity to take part in exciting college-wide competitions
  • Minimum 20% delivery by industry experts
  • Access to industry standard laptop* (as appropriate)
  • Minimum 15- day industry placement
  • Digital Business upskilling
  • Master classes
  • And much more

*Subject to requirements including 95% attendance, positive attitude and grade profile.

What you will learn

  • You'll study biological and environmental science principles
  • You'll explore the application of chemical substances
  • You'll learn health applications of life science
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills, working safely and precisely
  • You'll understand how scientific principles apply in workplace settings
  • You'll build a portfolio of assignments through continuous assessment

How you will learn

Learning combines classroom theory with hands-on practical work. Assessment has two parts. First, external written exams: one in February and one in June. Second, continuous assessment through a portfolio of assignments built up across the year. You'll also complete a work placement relevant to your studies, with support from the centre in finding one.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College City Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician: supporting scientists in research or testing environments
  • Science technician: preparing equipment and materials in schools or colleges
  • Pharmaceutical production operative: working in drug manufacturing
  • Environmental monitoring assistant: collecting and recording environmental data
  • Forensic science assistant: supporting evidence analysis and processing
  • Healthcare science support worker: assisting in clinical or diagnostic settings

What you could study next

  • Level 3 BTEC Applied Science: the natural next step after this course, going deeper into scientific theory and practice
  • T Level in Science: a technical qualification combining study with an industry placement, recognised by universities and employers

Both routes can lead toward university study in science, healthcare, or related fields, or directly into technical roles in the science industry.

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