Applied Science (Biomedical Science) - Level 3 Extended Diploma

Essentials

Duration: 2 Years Full-time
Start date: 2nd September 2024
End date: 5th June 2026
Information Event: Yes

Course fee: FREE (Eligibility criteria may apply)

Course Content

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science qualification is a two-year programme of study which is equivalent to three A-Levels in applied science.

This programme of study aims to provide learners with the laboratory skills and scientific knowledge they will need to progress on to third level education and careers in science. 

Students that successfully complete year one of this programme will be awarded an Extended Certificate in Applied Science (1 A-Level equivalent) and will progress to year two of the Extended Diploma to complete their studies and achieve the 3 A-Level equivalents.

The subjects covered throughout the two years cover a wide range of STEM topics and aim to provide the learner with a strong foundation in applied science. Project work is an essential component of this course of study through which we aim to enhance the learner’s research, scientific writing, and laboratory practical skills. The programme consists of 13 units over two years which include topics such as:

• Research Project
• Practical laboratory skills
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Biology
• Infectious Diseases
• Chemistry
• Microbiology
• Biomedical Science
• Mathematics and Statistics for Science

 Students that complete this course progress to university courses in science and healthcare or to employment in the science industry.

p>Applied Science students Ryan and Niamh share their experiences of what it is like to study this course at the College.

Special Features

UCAS application support will be provided by experienced science tutors and the college’s career support department who will provide personal statement guidance and career advice when applying to university or seeking employment.

Course Update

Please note from September 2025, all Ballymena courses are planned to move to the new Ballymena campus at Farm Lodge.

Applicants require a minimum of four GCSE which should include a grade C, or above, in Maths and English and CC, or above, in Double Award Science. Students with Single Award Science and GCSE equivalents will also be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students with a Level 2 Certificate in Applied Science should achieve a Merit or above.

In the event of oversubscription, the college will use the following enhanced criteria:

• GCSE grade B or above in English and Maths, CC or above in Double Award Science or B in Single Award Science.

Progression routes for students that successfully complete the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science have a wide range of possible employment, career and higher education opportunities as listed below.

• Biomedical Sciences
• Biological Sciences
• Dietetics
• Nutrition Studies
• Physiotherapy
• Radiography
• Occupational Therapy
• Optometry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nursing
• Paramedic Studies
• Food Technology
• Biotechnology
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Studies
• Sports Science
• Marine Biology
• Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Science
• HND in Applied Sciences