Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

28026W1 | Parson's Walk Centre, Wigan
Start Date | 02/09/2024
Time/Day | FULL TIME

Is this course for me?

Many scientists are remembered throughout time for the amazing impact they have on the world in which we live. A career in science can be intriguing and fulfilling. Our practical, work-related courses will develop your skills and knowledge, and the confidence to progress towards laboratory based employment, or university study. This is an exciting practical, work related course delivering the skills and knowledge to enable you to perform a specialist scientific role in industry, commerce and science related employment. It is an assignment based course covering three key areas (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) with emphasis on the work of scientists and technicians.
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What will I study?

The Applied Science programmes cover three key areas: Biology, Chemistry and Physics, with an emphasis on the work of scientists and technicians. At Level 3 there are a range of core units covering key topics of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In addition specialist units which provide a more in-depth study of subjects such as human anatomy and physiology, organic chemistry, microbiology, genetics, medical physics and industrial chemical reactions. This means you can study particular areas of science in greater depth and focus on key applications.

How long is the course?

Full time for two academic years

How will I be assessed?

By completion of 4 examined units (two in year one and two in year two), coursework assignments and a projects based on realistic, work based situations and activities.

What qualifications do I need?

A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-4 including maths or English and science.

What can I progress onto?

The course will enable you to enter laboratory based employment or to study for higher level qualifications in applied sciences. Following Level 3 you can go on to university study and choose from a wide range of degrees, including the HND in Applied Biology at the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College. Career prospects include Analytical Scientist, Astronomers, Biochemist, Biological Scientist, Biomedical Scientist, Clinical Scientist, Food Scientist, Forensic Scientist, Geoscientist, Microbiologist, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Research Technician

Other Information

The course is equivalent to 3 A Levels. You will receive support from a well qualified, experienced and enthusiastic team of professional staff. If you are 16-18 years old, you may be eligible for our FREE bus pass. Find out more at www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk/free-bus-pass

Course Fees

16-18 Year Olds 19+ year olds Free for eligible learners? Is Loan Available?
£7146.00 Yes Yes

Exam Fee

£249.00
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Chemical Scientists

Chemical scientists analyse and research physical aspects of chemical structure and change within substances and develop chemical techniques used in the manufacture or modification of natural substances and processed products.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

7.65%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£20,267
Entry
£31,134
Median
£57,901
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Develops procedures for quality control of manufactured products.
  • Tests techniques and processes for reliability under a variety of conditions.
  • Analyses results and experimental data.
  • Operates specialised scientific equipment and conducts experiments to identify chemical composition, energy and chemical changes in natural substances and processed materials.
  • Develops experimental procedures, instruments and recording and testing systems.

Knowledge

Chemistry Mathematics English Language Computers and Electronics

Skills

Reading Comprehension Science Active Learning Monitoring Critical Thinking Mathematics Active Listening Writing Speaking Learning Strategies
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Biological Scientists

Biological scientists examine and investigate the morphology, structure, and physical characteristics of living organisms, including their inter-relationships, environments and diseases.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

8.48%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£23,850
Entry
£40,596
Median
£66,905
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Monitors the distribution, presence and behaviour of plants, animals and aquatic life, and performs other scientific tasks related to conservation not performed by Job holders in MINOR GROUP 215: Conservation and Environment Professionals.
  • Advises farmers, medical staff and others, on the nature of field crops, livestock and produce and on the treatment and prevention of disease.
  • Observes the structure of communities of organisms in the laboratory and in their natural environment.
  • Researches the effects of internal and external environmental factors on the life processes and other functions of living organisms.
  • Studies the physical form, structure, composition and function of living organisms.

Knowledge

Biology English Language Chemistry Law and Government Computers and Electronics Mathematics Education and Training Geography Customer and Personal Service Administration and Management Clerical Public Safety and Security Engineering and Technology Medicine and Dentistry

Skills

Reading Comprehension Active Learning Critical Thinking Active Listening Writing Science Monitoring Speaking Mathematics Learning Strategies
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Biochemists and Biomedical Scientists

Biochemists and biomedical scientists examine and investigate the chemical processes of living organisms, including their inter-relationships, environments and diseases, and perform laboratory tests on tissue, blood and other samples to diagnose diseases, toxins or health conditions.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

8.16%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£30,353
Entry
£52,012
Median
£85,720
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Researches, develops and quality checks new products in the pharmaceuticals, food production and agricultural Industries.
  • Performs tests to help clinicians diagnose and treat various conditions, evaluates existing treatments and researches new ways to treat diseases.
  • Researches the effects of internal and external environmental factors on the life processes and other functions of living organisms.
  • Performs tests to study physiological and pathological characteristics within cells and other organisms.
  • Identifies and studies the chemical substances, including microbial infections, involved in physiological processes and the progress of disease.
  • Studies the chemical form, structure, composition and function of living organisms.

Knowledge

Biology Chemistry English Language Engineering and Technology Education and Training Mathematics Mechanical Computers and Electronics Production and Processing Administration and Management

Skills

Reading Comprehension Science Writing Active Learning Active Listening Critical Thinking Learning Strategies Mathematics Speaking
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Civil Engineers

Civil engineers undertake research and design, direct construction and manage the operation and maintenance of civil and mining engineering structures.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

5.38%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£30,246
Entry
£49,397
Median
£74,308
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Organises and establishes control systems to monitor operational efficiency and performance of materials and systems.
  • Organises and plans projects, arranges work schedules, carries out inspection work and plans maintenance control.
  • Designs structures such as roads, dams, bridges, railways, hydraulic systems, sewerage systems, industrial and other buildings and plans the layout of tunnels, wells and construction shafts.
  • Designs foundations and earthworks.
  • Determines and specifies construction methods, materials, quality and safety standards and ensures that equipment operation and maintenance comply with design specifications.
  • Undertakes research and advises on soil mechanics, concrete technology, hydraulics, water and waste water treatment processes and other civil engineering matters.

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology Design Building and Construction Mathematics Physics Customer and Personal Service English Language Transportation Public Safety and Security Administration and Management Computers and Electronics Chemistry Law and Government

Skills

Reading Comprehension Speaking Critical Thinking Active Listening Writing Active Learning Monitoring Mathematics
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineers undertake research, design and development, direct the manufacture and manage the operation and maintenance of engines, machines, vehicle and ships’ structures, building services and other mechanical items.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

7.68%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£26,097
Entry
£45,691
Median
£68,733
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Organises and establishes control systems to monitor operational efficiency and performance of materials and systems.
  • Ensures that equipment, operation and maintenance comply with design specifications and safety standards.
  • Designs and develops mechanical equipment, such as steam, internal combustion and other non-electrical motors for railway locomotives, road vehicles and other machinery.
  • Determines materials, equipment, piping, capacities, layout of plant or system and specification for manufacture.
  • Undertakes research and advises on energy use, materials handling, thermodynamic processes, fluid mechanics, vehicles and environmental controls.

Knowledge

Mechanical Engineering and Technology Design Administration and Management Mathematics Production and Processing Computers and Electronics English Language

Skills

Reading Comprehension Mathematics Science Monitoring Active Learning Critical Thinking Active Listening Writing Speaking
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Electrical Engineers

Electrical engineers undertake research and design, direct construction and manage the operation and maintenance of electrical equipment, power stations, building control systems and other electrical products and systems.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

3.39%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£33,716
Entry
£51,748
Median
£77,845
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Organises and establishes control systems to monitor the performance and safety of electrical assemblies and systems.
  • Ensures that manufacture, operation and maintenance comply with design specifications and contractual arrangements.
  • Determines and specifies manufacturing methods of electrical systems.
  • Supervises, controls and monitors the operation of electrical generation, transmission and distribution systems.
  • Conceives and develops engineering designs from product ideas in electrical engineering.

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology Mathematics Computers and Electronics Design Physics English Language Production and Processing Telecommunications

Skills

Reading Comprehension Active Learning Critical Thinking Mathematics Monitoring Science Learning Strategies Active Listening Writing Speaking
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Electronics Engineers

Electronics engineers undertake research and design, direct construction and manage the operation and maintenance of electronic motors, communications systems, microwave systems, and other electronic equipment.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

7.61%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£31,800
Entry
£52,747
Median
£79,348
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Tests, diagnoses faults and undertakes repair of electronic equipment.
  • Organises and establishes control systems to monitor performance and evaluate designs.
  • Determines and specifies appropriate production and/or installation methods and quality and safety standards.
  • Conceives and develops engineering designs from product ideas in electronics engineering.
  • Undertakes research and advises on all aspects of telecoms equipment, radar, telemetry and remote-control systems, data processing equipment, microwaves and other electronic equipment.

Knowledge

Computers and Electronics Engineering and Technology Design Mathematics Education and Training Physics English Language Telecommunications Production and Processing Administration and Management Customer and Personal Service Communications and Media

Skills

Reading Comprehension Active Learning Mathematics Critical Thinking Active Listening Monitoring Learning Strategies Writing Speaking Science
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Aerospace Engineers

Aerospace engineers research develop and design aircraft, spacecraft and their components.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

6.38%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£30,431
Entry
£50,475
Median
£75,930
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Inspects completed aircraft maintenance work to certify that it meets standards and the aircraft is ready for operation.
  • Ensures that equipment, operation and maintenance comply with design specifications and safety standards.
  • Analyses test data; undertakes research and advises on all aspects of aircraft, spacecraft and their systems.
  • Organises and plans projects, arranges work schedules, carries out inspection work and plans maintenance control.
  • Conceives and develops engineering designs from product ideas in aerospace engineering.

Knowledge

Mechanical Engineering and Technology Design Physics Administration and Management Mathematics Production and Processing Computers and Electronics English Language

Skills

Reading Comprehension Mathematics Science Monitoring Active Learning Critical Thinking Active Listening Writing Speaking
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Engineering Project Managers and Project Engineers

Engineering project managers and project engineers schedule, manage and oversee engineering projects for quality of work, timeliness and completion within budget, plan, design and specify materials and equipment for the project and create necessary technical drawings.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

6.4%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£30,016
Entry
£49,106
Median
£73,870
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Ensures that equipment, operation and maintenance comply with design specifications and safety standards.
  • Records, monitors and reports progress.
  • Identifies defects in work and proposes corrections.
  • Regularly inspects and monitors progress and quality of work, ensures legal requirements are met.
  • Plans work schedules for engineering projects based on prior discussion with client and contractors.
  • Assembles information for invoicing at the end of projects.
  • Briefs project team, contractors and suppliers.
  • Draws up budgets and timescales for new engineering projects based on clients’ requirements.

Knowledge

Mathematics Mechanical Administration and Management Physics Education and Training Production and Processing Computers and Electronics Personnel and Human Resources Customer and Personal Service Engineering and Technology Design Clerical English Language

Skills

Mathematics Critical Thinking Monitoring Reading Comprehension Active Listening Speaking Writing Active Learning Learning Strategies
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Engineering Professionals

Job holders in this unit group perform a variety of professional engineering functions.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

6.35%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£27,483
Entry
£45,587
Median
£68,577
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Provides technical consultancy services.
  • Examines and advises on patent applications.
  • Prepares sketches, drawings and specifications showing materials to be used, construction and finishing methods and other details.
  • Devises and implements control systems to monitor operational efficiency and performance of system and materials.
  • Designs new systems and equipment with regard to cost, market requirements and feasibility of manufacture.
  • Establishes principles and techniques to improve the quality, durability and performance of materials such as textiles, glass, rubber, plastics, ceramics, metals and alloys.
  • Researches into problem areas to advance basic knowledge, evaluate new theories and techniques and to solve specific problems.
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Web Design Professionals

Web design professionals design, develop and maintain websites and web and mobile applications to meet a client’s specified requirements.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

6.56%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£23,825
Entry
£39,877
Median
£70,698
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Designs web interfaces for relational database systems.
  • Designs web pages and applications including graphics, animation and functionality to maximise visual effectiveness and facilitate appropriate access.
  • Presents design options to the client.
  • Liaises with internal/external client in order to define the requirements for the website or applications.

Knowledge

Computers and Electronics English Language Customer and Personal Service Administration and Management Design Communications and Media

Skills

Reading Comprehension Active Learning Writing Active Listening Critical Thinking Monitoring Learning Strategies
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Graphic and Multimedia Designers

Graphic and multimedia designers use illustrative, sound, visual and multimedia techniques to convey a message for information, entertainment, advertising, promotion or publicity purposes, and create special visual effects, 3D models and animations for computer games, film, interactive and other media.

Requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Opportunities

5.12%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£17,774
Entry
£26,830
Median
£44,218
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Produces or oversees creation of the final product.
  • Liaises with other parts of the production team to ensure graphic design fits with other elements, processes and timescales.
  • Prepares specification and instructions for realisation of the project.
  • Prepares sketches, scale drawings, models, colour schemes and other mock-ups to show clients and discusses any required alterations.
  • Undertakes research into project, considers previous related projects and compares costs of using different processes.
  • Liaises with client to clarify aims of project brief, discusses media, software and technology to be used, establishes timetable for project and defines budgetary constraints.

Knowledge

Design Fine Arts Communications and Media Computers and Electronics Sales and Marketing English Language Customer and Personal Service

Skills

Active Listening Critical Thinking Speaking Reading Comprehension
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Laboratory Technicians

Laboratory technicians carry out routine laboratory tests and checks and perform a variety of technical support functions requiring the application of established or prescribed procedures and techniques to assist scientists with their research, development, analysis and testing, and to verify the physical, chemical and other characteristics of materials and products.

Requirements: Level 4 NVQ; Intermediate, DipHE, DipFE

Opportunities

6.13%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£14,524
Entry
£24,759
Median
£38,675
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Keeps up to date with new technical developments.
  • Disposes of chemical and biological waste safely.
  • Maintains and rotates stock and supplies.
  • Records and collates data obtained from experimental work and documents all work carried out.
  • Operates and services specialised scientific equipment, undertakes prescribed measurements and analyses and ensures that sterile conditions necessary for some equipment are maintained.
  • Prepares organic and inorganic material for examination and stains and fixes slides for microscope work.
  • Sets up and assists with the construction and the development of scientific apparatus for experimental, demonstration or other purposes.

Knowledge

Chemistry

Skills

Reading Comprehension Active Learning Science Writing Mathematics Critical Thinking Active Listening Learning Strategies Monitoring Speaking
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Science, Engineering and Production Technicians

Job holders in this unit group perform a variety of technical support functions.

Requirements: Level 3 NVQ; A Levels

Opportunities

4.66%
RISE in employment in 5 years

What could you earn

£19,138
Entry
£30,807
Median
£47,462
Potential

Typical Tasks

  • Sets up school laboratories for demonstrations and experiments, operates and maintains equipment and supports the teaching of students.
  • Otherwise assists technologists as directed.
  • Performs calculations and records and interprets data.
  • Undertakes tests and takes measurements and readings.
  • Sets up apparatus for experimental, demonstration or other purposes.
Apply Now for Applied Science Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma

Course fees shown are per annum for University Centre courses. Courses lasting longer than one year, fees will be payable per year.

All other courses show the total fees payable for the course.

If you need advice on any financial support that may be available to you, please contact us on applications@wigan-leigh.ac.uk or phone 01942 761111

Wigan & Leigh College endeavours to ensure that the information provided on the website is accurate. All courses are offered subject to student numbers and the College reserves the right to amend, withdraw or amalgamate any of the courses, fees, services, locations or facilities described at any time. The College cannot accept liability arising out of such changes or connected to such changes, however it will undertake to minimise disruption to students.