Level 3: BTEC National Extended Diploma in Applied Science

Overview

  • 16-18 (Full-time)
  • Tues, Thurs and Fri hours per week
  • A1276A-25
  • 1 September 2025 - 36 weeks
  • Willesden Campus
  • 16-18: no charge, Standard: £7,395

Details

This course is designed to provide highly specialist work-related qualifications in a range of vocational sectors. It gives you the knowledge, understanding and skills that you need to prepare for employment, and provides career development opportunities for you if you are already in work. It is equivalent to 3 GCE A levels and is highly valued by universities, further education colleges and employers.

The course covers the units listed below and is equal to 180 Credits.

Mandatory units: 

  1. Principles and Applications of Science I
  2. Practical Scientific Procedures and  Techniques
  3. Science Investigation Skills
  4. Laboratory Techniques and their  Application
  5. Principles and Applications of Science II
  6. Investigative Project
  7. Contemporary Issues in Science

Units  1 to 4  are  covered  in the  first  year  and  5  to  7  in  the  second year.

Optional units:

  1. Physiology of Human Body Systems
  2. Electrical Circuits and their Application
  3. Medical Physics Applications
  4. Applications of Organic Chemistry
  5. Diseases and Infections
  6. Microbiology and Microbiological  Techniques

How is the course taught?

You will learn about what engineers and scientists actually do in their jobs. You will learn by doing, through a variety of activities such as practical work, taking part in discussions, carrying out research; going on industrial /educational visits and making presentations

What support is available?

Our qualified tutors will support and guide you in the classrooms/workshops and through tutorials as they help you to develop the skills and techniques required in industry. Learning Support is also available for those with learning difficulties/disabilities; please let us know on application if you require this service. If you need help or advice on other matters such as welfare and finance, please contact our Course Information Centres at Willesden or Wembley Park.

What social activities can I take part in?

We offer a programme of social and sports activities to all our students; full information is available from the Student Room at your centre of study. Student rooms are available for those who want to play games, meet up with friends or just chill.

What facilities and resources are available?

A range of snacks, hot and cold foods are available to purchase in the canteen and café facilities, as well as vending machines. Halal meat and washing facilities are available at both centres. We have Quiet Rooms for those preferring to reflect. LRCs (libraries) are available at both centres, fully equipped with a wide range of learning materials and qualified friendly staff on hand to support you.

What else should I know?

Annually we take part in a range of national and regional competitions in a wide range of subject areas for those keen to show off the skills they have gained on their courses. Competition entry is not compulsory and does not apply to all subject areas; please ask your tutor if it applies to your course.

  • What qualification do I get on completing this course?
    Level 3 Extended Diploma
  • Is there additional work required by the student?
    Units 1,3,5 and 7 are externally assessed through written exams or practical tasks. The remaining units listed above will be internally assessed through assignments. You will be assessed using a variety of assessment methods, including case studies, assignments, work-based assessments and projects. Work is graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction for each unit.
  • What are the expected employment areas with this course?
    Science
  • What are the Entry Requirements?
    You will need 5 GCSEs at grade C or grade 4 above or including English and Maths or the equivalent BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Applied Science and Functional skills in English and Maths. You may also be asked to complete a piece of free writing or a vocational assessment. If you meet the entry requirements you will then be offered an interview with a tutor to discuss the course.