Applied Science (Biomedical) BTEC Foundation Diploma level 3 – C6321

Gain the equivalent of 1.5 A level during this one year programme, and then move onto either an apprenticeship, employment or the extended diploma, where you’ll top up your qualifications to the equivalent of 3 A levels.

If you’ve already got some A levels but need more UCAS points to move into higher education this could be the boost you need.

The course is designed to incorporate skills such as teamwork and good communication combined with experience in research, extended writing, and meeting deadlines.

The focus on the holistic development of your practical, interpersonal, and thinking skills enables you to be both work-ready and experienced in academic expectations. Our approach is to provide rigour and balance so as to promote your ability to apply your learning immediately in new contexts, for example, carrying out practical laboratory tasks, planning investigations, collecting, analysing, and presenting data.

If you are aged 16 to 18, you will be enrolled on a study programme. This will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven’t already achieved a grade 4 or above.

You will take part in activities that help you to develop your personal skills, such as building your character and confidence. This will help you to live well and move into your chosen career.

If you are 16-19 years old these activities will be timetabled as will work experience and placement. You can also choose to take part in other activities.

For other age groups, activities will be tailored to your needs.

Year 1

Although topics may be subject to change, you will study a mix of four core units and one optional unit.

Units include topics such as principles and applications of science (exam unit), science investigation skills (exam unit), and laboratory techniques and their application. All units are designed as a basis to review and refine your higher-order skills and methods for scientific work.

Standard entry to this course requires one positive reference. It is desirable that you can demonstrate 90% attendance at your last place of work or study. A GCSE in a Science subject at grade 4 (C) or above is required, plus three other GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above including English and maths.

Consideration will be given to all applicants over the age of 19, who do not hold formal Science qualifications.

For this course you will have to be organised, adhering to your deadlines and keeping a portfolio of your assignments. There are two externally assessed units (exams) over this one-year course. The remainder of your qualification will be assessed internally by a variety of methods that may include a practical assignment, essays, and/or presentations.

Tuition fees

Tuition Fees (16-18): £0.00

Tuition Fees (19+): £2882.00

Material Fees

£30.00

Disclaimer

If the course is longer than one year the total fees are for the first year only and further fees may apply in future years. All fees are based on a ‘home’ learner status. Please contact us for information on overseas fees.

For more information, please see our course fee disclaimers page.

Learn more about fees

This course provides you with a number of options for further progression. Upon successful completion and achievement of this qualification, you can choose a pathway that focuses on a particular occupational area of employment such as laboratory technician. You can also go onto the Applied Science Extended Diploma with a view to going on to higher education.

Apply online via the College website, or if your school uses the Positive Steps @16 (PS16) application system please apply through this and speak to your careers advisor if you are unsure. You will need details of your qualifications, a reference, and a personal statement to complete your application. Once your application has been successfully processed, you will be sent a conditional offer and be invited to a Welcome Event at the College to meet your tutors, learn more about your chosen course of study and tour the facilities. You will then need to confirm your acceptance of the course offered to you.