Cambridge Advanced National in Applied Science

AAQ , Level 3
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Available at the following campuses:

What Our Students Say

“When I first came I didn’t know anybody at the college but because it’s people you’re surrounded by and people with similar interests to you, you do make friends quickly and you make really close friendships with people because you’re listening to the same things and you’re going through the same things, and you can help each other as well.”

Eve

“I’m working really well with my tutors – they’re really supportive and we just have a laugh. It’s like a really nice atmosphere. I think the facilities are really fantastic.”

Dan

“So the tutors are great for a number of reasons – they’re casual, you don’t feel like you’re being forced to do anything that’s uncomfortable, they’re not strict, they’ll have a laugh with you if you want to and they know how to get stuff done when they need to if we’re on a bit of a time crunch, but they also know how to have a bit of fun and not put pressure on you – and they’re great, they’re always there to give you information if you need it for at-home tasks and they’re always on Google Hangouts to message you if you need anything and they get back to you really quickly.”

Rachel

Did you know!

  • Alternative Academic Qualifications have been introduced to be equivalent to A Levels but with a larger focus on independent research and coursework skills
  • West Yorkshire boasts over 300 healthtech firms with approximately £3 billion in revenue per year (2025)
  • A qualification in science can lead to a whole host of opportunities in health-related industries, the pharmaceutical industry, land-based industries, environmental work, and engineering

Course Information

Introduction

Ready to take the first step towards completing a Level 3 qualification? You’ll be in your element as you study and earn your Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) in Applied Science.

Overview

Get ready to put scientific theories into practice as you study biology, chemistry and physics in our practical state-of-the-art laboratories. You’ll explore specific areas of science such as scientific developments, bioenergetics, spectroscopy and more. You’ll also strengthen your application of organic and inorganic chemistry, develop practical and experimental techniques, and build up your analytical and research abilities. At the end of this course, you’ll walk away with an AAQ Extended Certificate that’s equivalent to one A level.

Who is this course for?

Those that have a qualification in GCSE science and are looking to take the next step towards a career in science. They are particularly ideal for individuals who want to combine academic study with practical skills, study in professional-standard facilities and take advantage of our industry links.

Course units/modules

  • F180: Fundamentals of Science
  • F181: Science in Society
  • F182: Investigating Science
  • F183: Analytical Techniques in Chemistry
  • F186: Medical Physics

Benefits and skills

  • Analyse and identify contemporary scientific issues
  • Gain knowledge of applications of organic and inorganic chemistry
  • Study specialist areas such as Biological Molecules, Qualitative and Quantitative techniques as well as medical diagnosis and therapeutical techniques
  • Conduct practical work in professional laboratories
  • Improve your analytical, investigative and critical thinking skills

Entry requirements

Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English or Maths. English and Maths will be built into your course if your grades are below 4.

Available apprenticeships and progression options

You can progress on to a second year of study to achieve an additional L3 AAQ overall if you are considering a scientific progression route to university or start relevant employment.

Assessment types

A combination of internally assessed coursework (60%) and externally assessed exams (40%)

Course details

Duration: 1 year
Start Date: 07/09/2026
Fees (16-18): No fee
Study Type: Full time
Course Code: 78935-01

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