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Free Level 3 Applied Science Course in Northampton – Northampton College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start31 Aug 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Applied Science Course in Northampton. Classes run at Northampton College, full-time during the day.

The course covers biology, chemistry, and physics, alongside forensic science and environmental science. You'll work in labs, a crime scene room, and outdoors. Units include Chemistry and Our Earth, Energy and Our Universe, The Living Body, and Scientific Skills. Some units are assessed by external exam. You'll also study maths and English if you don't already hold a GCSE grade 4 or above in those subjects. The course takes one year full-time.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma in Applied Science.

Who this course is for

This programme of study is a practical, work related course aimed at teaching you about the employment area you have chosen and developing the skills you will need to start your career or move into Higher Education. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demand. The first year of the course allows you to achieve a Extended Certificate in Applied Science. On successful completion at Merit Level or above you may progress to the second year and complete a Diploma or Extended Diploma in Applied Science. What will I study? The units you will study are likely to include: Core Units: Principles and Applications of Science I Practical Scientific Procedures & Techniques Science Investigation Skills Specialist Units: Laboratory Techniques & Their Applications Principles and Applications of Science II Investigative Project Contemporary Issues in Science Physiology of Human Body Systems Human Regulation and Reproduction Microbiological Techniques Electrical Circuits and their Application Genetics and Genetic Engineering Practical Chemical Analysis Industrial Chemical Reactions Applications of Organic Chemistry Applications of Inorganic Chemistry

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 including maths and science, English must be at least Grade 3

What you will learn

  • You'll study core biology, chemistry, and physics principles.
  • You'll explore forensic science and environmental science.
  • You'll carry out practical experiments in laboratory settings.
  • You'll investigate topics such as the living body and chemical substances.
  • You'll develop scientific skills assessed through external exams.
  • You'll complete assignments and projects based on realistic workplace scenarios.
  • You'll build understanding of health applications of life science.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical lab work, outdoor activities, and a crime scene room. Assessment is through assignments and projects based on workplace situations. Some units include external exams. You may also take part in work experience and employability sessions during the year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Northampton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory Technician, supports scientific testing and research in a lab setting.
  • Laboratory Assistant, assists qualified scientists with experiments and data recording.
  • Science Technician, prepares equipment and materials for scientific work.
  • Forensic Science Technician, works with evidence collection and analysis.
  • Environmental Monitoring Officer, measures and records environmental data.
  • Healthcare Science Support Worker, assists clinical scientists in a health setting.

What you could study next

  • A Level 3 or Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Applied Science or a related subject, for deeper specialist knowledge.
  • A degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or environmental science, recognised by UK universities.
  • An apprenticeship in laboratory science at Level 3 or above, combining work and study.
Apply on northamptoncollege.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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