BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/Diploma in Applied Science

What is the subject about?

The programme aims to:

emphasise the ways science is applied and the work that scientists do

• give learners the opportunity to acquire technical and employability skills, knowledge and understanding which are transferable and will enable individuals to meet changing circumstances.
• give learners the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised vocationally specific qualification to enter employment as a science technician or assistant practitioner, or to progress to other vocational qualifications such as BTEC Higher Nationals in Applied Biology, Applied Chemistry, Applied Physics or health-related or other science-related qualifications e.g. degrees. 
• provide opportunities for learners who are employed in the applied science industry or organisations that use science to develop their underpinning knowledge and scientific skills.
• develop the knowledge, understanding and skills of learners to meet the needs of the applied science sector.
• increase understanding of the role of the science technician or assistant practitioner, their relationship with the scientific community and their responsibilities towards the community and the environment.

Where can this subject lead me?

The BTEC Diploma in Applied Science can, on its own or coupled with an A Level (dependant on progression route) provides opportunities for learners to:

• enter employment as a science technician or progress to higher education vocational qualifications such as the BTEC Higher National Diploma in Applied Sciences or a full-time degree in applied sciences, forensic science or other science-related courses.
• work with the forensic science service or using their analytical skills in the chemistry industry.
• work as a quality control technician/analyst, where the employee works in a production plant laboratory carrying out analytical tests using modern instrumentation, ICT and data interpretation
• work in a hospital as a medical physics technician supporting the use of X-ray and other imaging/scanning instruments.
• work in a research laboratory in the development of new drugs. Managing projects that include setting up apparatus, measuring and handling chemical substances, following procedures, carrying out observations and measurements, separating and analysing products.
• work for a scientific magazine or journal. Editing and proofreading articles on issues such as applications and implications of new science discoveries and developments.
• provide opportunities for technicians to achieve a nationally recognised Level 3 vocationally specific qualification.
• understand how the scientific community works and how science works

The programme is relevant to anyone who wishes to understand the importance of science and technology.

Course Content

This is a well–structured programme, organized into a total of 12 Units. Six units in Year 1 make up the BTEC Level 3 Subidiary Diploma in Applied Science, six further units in year 2 lead to the BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science (Industrial and Laboratory Science).

Year 1

• Fundamentals of Science
• Scientific Practical Techniques
• Working in the Science Industry
• Application of Numbers for Science Technicians – half unit
• Mathematics for Science Technicians – half unit
• 2 x Optional Units – options to include biology, chemistry and physics topics.

 Year 2

• Scientific Investigation
• Perceptions of Science
• 4 further units - to be confirmed

Teaching and Learning Styles

This programme is delivered in a structured manner with use of materials written specially for this course including booklets, questions and activities which are designed to promote understanding. The college virtual learning environment, accessible at college and from home, is used for computer based learning, assessment and support materials. Students are encouraged to explore the subject, to complete their own research notes and to seek tutor support whenever it is needed. All practical activities inform students of the hazards involved