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Level 3 Applied Science Course in Oldham for 16 to 18 Year Olds – Oldham Sixth Form College

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

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About this course

Free Level 3 Applied Science Course in Oldham. Classes run at Oldham Sixth Form College, full-time over two years.

The course covers all three sciences. You'll study biology, chemistry, and physics through core units. Lab work is central. You'll learn practical techniques like titration, colorimetry, and chromatography. There's also a strong focus on how science works in industry. Around half the course is coursework, so it suits learners who prefer less exam pressure than A Levels.

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

Who this course is for

The BTEC in Applied Science offers you the chance to continue your studies of all three sciences but in vocational scenarios, with less emphasis on examinations than the A Level sciences. The course has a strong focus on developing practical skills within the laboratory and learning how science is carried out in industry. This is underpinned by the study of the key theoretical concepts and scientific principles common to all science courses. The Applied Science course covers a variety of general units from across all sciences, through to more specialised units like physiology of human body systems, medical physics applications and industrial chemical reactions. As a wide ranging and varied course, the options for progressing into higher education and employment are also extremely varied. You will gain valuable organisational, time management and study skills to equip you well to continue your learning on higher education courses and throughout your career. This 3 A Level equivalent course is a full time course, so if you are a person who wants to immerse themselves in all things scientific this could be the perfect course for you

Entry requirements

A minimum of 5 passes (grade 4 or above) at GCSE, including in both English and Maths (not including Level 2 vocational qualifications).

What you will learn

  • You'll study core topics in biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • You'll develop practical lab skills including titration, colorimetry, calorimetry, and chromatography.
  • You'll learn how science is applied in industrial and vocational settings.
  • You'll explore cells and tissues, the periodic table, and the properties of elements.
  • You'll study the use of waves in communication.
  • You'll build skills in laboratory safety and calibration procedures.
  • You'll complete coursework units that develop the kind of skills valued in university science study.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and hands-on laboratory work at Oldham Sixth Form College. Assessment is split across the two years: around 46% is examined and 54% is coursework. Examined units test your scientific knowledge. Coursework units are assessed through practical tasks and written assignments completed during the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oldham Sixth Form 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, helps prepare and run experiments in schools, hospitals, or industry.
  • Science Technician, maintains equipment and assists scientists in a range of settings.
  • Quality Control Analyst, checks products and processes meet scientific standards.
  • Pharmaceutical Technician, works in drug manufacturing or testing environments.
  • Research Assistant, supports scientific studies and data collection.

What you could study next

  • A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, for learners who want to specialise further before university.
  • BSc in Applied Science or a related degree, the natural next step for those aiming at a science career.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science, a shorter higher-education route into technical roles.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in Science, combines paid work with a full degree qualification.
Apply on osfc.ac.uk →
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