BTEC in Applied Science

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science is a two-year programme equivalent to three A levels. It is intended for students who are interested in pursuing science in a practical, career-focused context. The qualification develops understanding of core scientific principles in biology, chemistry, and physics, while emphasising laboratory techniques, applied investigation, and scientific communication. It provides progression to higher education in science-related subjects as well as routes into employment and apprenticeships in scientific industries.

Subject content

Learners complete 13 units in total: 7 mandatory and 6 optional.

Mandatory units (core content):

• Principles and Applications of Science I – introduces key concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics.

  
  

• Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques – development of laboratory skills such as titration, calorimetry, chromatography, and colorimetry.

  
  

• Science Investigation Skills – conducting and evaluating experiments under controlled assessment conditions.

  
  

• Laboratory Techniques and Their Application – preparation, analysis, and interpretation of results using scientific instruments.

  
  

• Principles and Applications of Science II – builds on unit 1 with more advanced content across biology, chemistry, and physics.

  
  

• Investigative Project – independent research project on a scientific topic, including planning, execution, and evaluation.

  
  

• Contemporary Issues in Science – exploration of how science interacts with society, policy, and technological development.

Optional units (examples):

• Genetics and Genetic Engineering

• Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques

• Medical Physics Applications

• Organic Chemistry

• Physiology of Human Body Systems

• Applications of Inorganic Chemistry

• Biomedical Science Techniques

• Industrial Chemical Reactions

Centres select from the optional units to reflect their expertise and local progression routes.

Assessment

The Extended Diploma uses a blend of internal and external assessment:

• External assessments (approximately 42% of the course): written exams and controlled tasks set by Pearson. Examples include the Principles and Applications of Science exams and the Science Investigation Skills practical assessment.

  
  

• Internal assessments (approximately 58%): assignments, practical write-ups, presentations, and reports marked by teachers.

This balance ensures that students demonstrate both theoretical understanding and the ability to apply knowledge in practical laboratory contexts.

Progression routes

The qualification is recognised by universities and employers. Common progression paths include:

• Higher education: Degrees in biomedical science, biochemistry, chemistry, biology, physics, environmental science, forensic science, and related subjects.

• Health and care professions: Nursing, radiography, paramedic science, and other allied health courses (when combined with appropriate optional units).

• Apprenticeships and employment: Laboratory technician roles, scientific research support, quality assurance, environmental monitoring, and work in pharmaceutical or chemical industries.

Transferable skills gained

Students develop a wide range of transferable skills, including:

• Scientific enquiry and practical competence: safe laboratory practice, accurate data collection, and interpretation of results.

  
  

• Analytical and problem-solving skills: applying scientific knowledge to experimental design and evaluation.

  
  

• Communication skills: writing scientific reports, presenting findings, and explaining technical concepts clearly.

  
  

• Independent learning and project management: planning and completing extended investigations.

  
  

• Numeracy and IT skills: handling data, performing calculations, and using software for analysis and presentation.

  
  

• Professional behaviours: organisation, attention to detail, resilience, and working to deadlines.