The National Diploma in Applied Science is the core qualification studied in the first year of a Level 3 Programme of Study in Applied Science. It is the perfect qualification for students who want to continue their studies in science beyond Level 2 or GCSE and provides a solid foundation of learning across all science disciplines before an optional pathway is chosen in year two.
Successful learners will be able to progress onto the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science after the first year, choosing a specialist pathway relevant to their long term ambitions. A full Extended Diploma in Applied Science provides access to a wide range of University-level courses, or entry into employment within the science industry.
The first year combines the key areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics to give you a well-rounded practical and theoretical understanding of the Applied Sciences. A significant amount of time will be spent developing your practical laboratory skills, which will allow you to progress with confidence into technical-based employment or Higher Education science programmes.
While on the Foundation Diploma, you will study Units covering a variety of topics:
The course is delivered through a series of 6 Units, composed of both practical and theoretical components.
Delivery will be through student-centred lessons, complemented by interactive, computer-based activities and laboratory work.
After successful completion of the first year, you will be awarded a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science, which is equivalent in size to 3 AS-levels.
After successful completion of the second year, you will be awarded a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science, equivalent in size to 3 A-levels.
Of the six units studied in the first year, four are achieved by completing assignments, which are set and marked internally by your tutors. This coursework is assessed against Pass, Merit and Distinction criteria to determine an overall grade for each Unit. One Unit is assessed by means of an externally-set examination. One further Unit is assessed through completion of an externally-set project, based on a scientific investigation.
You will need to submit an application form and attend an interview.
Entry requirements are normally:
GCSE grade C (or 4) or above in
o Mathematics*
o English Language*
o Science (3 sciences or double award)
· Or:
A Merit grade or above in a BTEC Level 2 in Applied Science
* Applicants with only Mathematics or English at the required level, but a GCSE Grade 3 in the other subject will considered and required to study towards their missing qualification within their course
Other equivalent qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. In special cases, a diagnostic assessment may be completed.
You will undertake a wide range of practical investigations, through which good laboratory practice will be developed.
All laboratory safety equipment will be provided by the College.
You will undertake a 1 week work placement during each year of the course.
You are expected to have your own scientific calculator.
You may wish to purchase a recommended textbook to accompany the course.
You may be required to make set contributions towards educational trips and/or travel expenses to local events.
If you have a Learning Difficulty or Disability or Additional Educational Need, please let us know when you apply. You will be offered support in your interview. If you need help completing your application, we can also assist you with this.
Solihull College & University Centre offers full-time and part-time courses for businesses and residents in Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Warwickshire and the whole of the West Midlands.
If you are successful (with at least a Merit grade) on this course, you will be able to progress onto the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science, which will then allow you to access University-level courses in scientific disciplines, including our Foundation Degree in Applied Biosciences.
Blossomfield Campus
Sept-2026
Various
TBC
N/A For 16 to 18 Year Olds
SCABD021BCF0
Full Time
Biological scientists and biochemists examine and investigate the morphology, structure, chemistry and physical characteristics of living organisms, including their inter-relationships, environments and diseases.
Job holders in this unit group operate plant and machinery in the processing of chemical and related materials by chemical, heat or other treatment, manufacture synthetic materials and bleach, dye or otherwise treat textiles, and treat hides, skins and pelts for making into fur, leather and skin products.
Chemical Engineers and Production and Process engineers advise on and direct technical aspects of production programmes to ensure cost-effectiveness and efficiency. This unit group incorporates: planning and quality control engineers who plan production schedules, work sequences, and manufacturing and processing procedures to ensure accuracy, quality and reliability; and chemical engineers who undertake research on commercial scale chemical processes and processed products, design and provide specifications and direct the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of chemical plants and control systems.
Pharmacists dispense drugs and medicaments in hospitals and pharmacies and advise on and participate in the development and testing of new drugs, compounds and therapies. They counsel on the proper use and adverse effects of drugs and medicines.
Pharmacists prepare or direct the preparation of prescribed medicaments in liquid, powder, tablet, ointment or other form following prescriptions issued by medical doctors and other health professionals; They advise health professionals on the selection and appropriate use of medicines; They also highlight a drug's potential side effects, identifies harmful interactions with other drugs and assesses the suitability of treatments for patients with particular health conditions; Pharmacists check that recommended doses are not being exceeded and that instructions are understood by patients; They maintain prescription files and records issue of narcotics, poisons and other habit-forming drugs; They also liaise with other professionals regarding the development, manufacturing and testing of drugs; They test and analyse drugs to determine their identity, purity and strength; They ensure that drugs and medicaments are in good supply and are stored properly.
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.
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.
Physical scientists study relationships between matter, energy and other physical phenomena, the nature, composition and structure of the Earth and other planetary bodies and forecast weather conditions and electrical, magnetic, seismic and thermal activity. This can include job roles such as Geologist, Geophysicist, Medical Physicist, Meteorologist, Oceanographer, Physicist and Seismologist.
Biomedical scientists examine and investigate the morphology, structure, chemistry and physical characteristics of living organisms, including their inter-relationships, environments and diseases.
Medical (diagnostic) radiographers operate x-ray machines, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and other imaging devices for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, assist in the diagnosis of injuries and diseases and are involved in intervention procedures such as the removal of kidney stones. They operate under the supervision of senior staff. Therapeutic radiographers specialise in the planning and administration of radiotherapy treatment for patients with cancer.
A Radiographer uses a range of imaging devices for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes; assesses patients and interprets clinical requirements to determine appropriate radiographic treatments; verifies identity of patient and ensures that necessary preparations have been made for the examination/treatment; decides length and intensity of exposure or strength of dosage of isotope; positions patient and operates x-ray, scanning or fluoroscopic equipment; maintains records of all radiographic/therapeutic work undertaken; plans course of treatment with clinical oncologists and physicists; calculates radiation dosage and maps volume to be treated; explains treatment to patient and management of any side effects; carries out post-treatment reviews and follow-ups.
Botanists fall under the category of Biological scientists and Biochemists. They examine and investigate the morphology, structure, chemistry and physical characteristics of living organisms, including their inter-relationships, environments and diseases.
Medical and dental technicians operate, calibrate and maintain cardiographic and encephalographic testing equipment, assist in the conduct of post mortems, give simple dental treatments, fit artificial limbs and hearing aids, and undertake a wide range of related medical and dental tasks.
A Medical or Dental Technician operates equipment to diagnose and record or treat hearing, heart, brain, lung and kidney ailments; undertakes scaling and polishing of teeth, applies medicaments, carries out post-operative hygiene work and advises on preventative dentistry; makes dentures, crowns, bridges, orthodontic and other dental appliances according to individual patient requirements; measures patients for, and fits them with, surgical appliances, hearing aids and artificial limbs; performs related medical tasks including treating hair and scalp disorders and conducting tests on glaucoma patients; takes samples for clinical examination.
Jobholders in this unit group investigate, address, and advise on a variety of terrestrial and marine environment and resource management issues, including the development and implementation of environmental policies and remedies that address the impacts of human activities and industrial processes on the environment.
Forensic Scientists provide scientific evidence for use in courts of law to support the prosecution or defence in criminal and civil investigations. This involves searching for and examining contact trace material associated with crimes. This material can include blood and other body fluids, hairs, fibres from clothing, paint and glass fragments, tyre marks, flammable substances used to start fires and more.
Ophthalmic opticians test patients' vision, diagnose defects and disorders and prescribe glasses or contact lenses as required.
An Optician examines eyes and tests vision of patient, identifies problems, defects, injuries and ill health; prescribes, supplies and fits appropriate spectacle lenses, contact lenses and other aids; advises patient on proper use of glasses, contact lenses and other aids, and on appropriate lighting conditions for reading and working; refers patient to a specialist, where necessary; carries out research with glass and lens manufacturers.
