BTEC National Extended Diploma in Applied Science

Applications Open: 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: 27th February 2026

Application Details: At Hartsdown Academy we run the International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme https://www.ibo.org/programmes/career-related-programme/ . Prospective students need to choose 1 Vocational Course (BTEC or OCR) and 2 IB Diploma Courses.

Entry Requirements: 5 x Grade 4-9 including Maths & English. A good attendance and behaviour record is also essential.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

The National Extended Diploma in Applied Science is wide-ranging and equivalent to three A-levels.

This course enables you to develop your understanding in all areas of science as well as learning about areas that are completely new and not covered at GCSE.

Scientific skills are always in demand in the workplace and a wide range of careers are possible including forensic laboratory work, scenes of crime work, research laboratories, school or college laboratories or quality control laboratories (for example in the food and drink industry).

You will study the underpinning science which includes aspects of biology, chemistry and physics as well as units more focussed on a particular area of science.

There are seven mandatory units:

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

You will also study six optional units which could include:

• Human Regulation and Reproduction
• Physiology of Human Body Systems
• Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis
• Practical Chemical Analysis
• Astronomy and Space Science
• Medical Physics Applications

Three units are externally assessed, the rest are assessed through coursework.

5+ English and Maths and 3 subjects at Grade 4+

There are a wide range of university courses available on all aspects of science. The study of applied science particularly encourages development of skills such as evaluation, analysis and synthesis.

The qualification supports entry to a range of courses, for example:

• BSc (Hons) in Chemistry with Analytical Science
• BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science
• Higher National Diploma (HND) in Applied Science

The course also gives opportunities to develop employability skills and transferable knowledge and skills for higher education.

D*D*D* = 168 points
DDD = 144 points
MMM = 96 points
PPP = 48 points