APPLIED SCIENCE WITH PSYCHOLOGY

National Diploma / National Extended Certificate

Course Level

Level 3

Duration

2 years full-time

Entry

September

Fees

View Fees

Overview

Develop your practical skills within our brand-new laboratory suite

Excellent preparation to progress onto our higher education psychology degree

Intrigued by why we think, feel and behave the way we do? Do you enjoy learning about science through a hands-on practical approach?

Applied Psychology explores our complex behaviours and the inner workings of our fascinating minds. With a strong practical and problem-solving approach, this course provides you with a unique learning pathway onto our psychology degree, as well as other science and health degrees.

You will deepen your understanding of key topics such as cells and organ systems, chemical bonding and reactions, waves and materials and learn different psychological approaches and how research is conducted, with a large unit on health psychology. Within our brand-new laboratories, you will conduct experiments, learning advanced analytical skills as well as developing excellence in laboratory practice. You will also get to conduct your own research into a scientific area you find especially interesting.

Studied over two years, it leads to two qualifications: a National Diploma in Applied Science (equivalent to 2 A-levels) and a National Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology (equivalent to 1 A-level). This gives you the opportunity to continue to study biology, chemistry and physics while enabling you to gain a thorough knowledge and understanding of psychology. The course has a large emphasis on experiments, research and coursework. On completion, you will be ready to pursue a career or higher education course in psychology or the applied science sector.

Why choose this college course?

• STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES – Experience applied sciences first-hand in our Health Skills and Simulation Suite and robotics labs and gain understanding of child development psychology in our Early Years Suite
• INNOVATIVE LEARNING – Enjoy learning using the latest in education technology from VR-modelling of health scenarios to interactive body-sized digital anatomy tables
• MOVE UP TO UNIVERSITY – Want to keep studying psychology at degree level? This college course been specifically designed to support your progression onto relevant degrees at university, including our own BSc Psychology degree.

Our facilities

Our applied science college students will learn in brand-new chemistry, biology and physics laboratories, plus you will get to experience applied sciences first-hand in our state-of-the-art Health Skills and Simulation Suite, used by our nursing and physiotherapy degree students, and our robotics labs, where our engineering students do their practical training. You will also have access to our award-winning university support services.

Course breakdown

Applied Science

You will study core applied science topics which will include:

• Biology: Cells and the cardiovascular, breathing and excretory systems
• Chemistry: Atomic structure and bonding, periodic trends and reactions
• Physics: Electromagnetic spectrum, materials and thermal physics
• Practical techniques of titration, colorimetry, chromatography and colorimetry
• Investigations into enzymes, plants, diffusion, fuels and electrical circuits
• Laboratory practice including health and safety, manufacturing techniques, data storage and informatics

You will also study two optional topics chosen from a wide range that includes forensics, genetics, disease, physiology, microbiology, organic and industrial chemistry, astronomy, medical physics and cryogenics.

You will also be able to explore an area of particular interest to you by completing your own investigative project.

Applied Psychology

In applied psychology, you will study:

• Psychological approaches and applications
• Conducting psychological research
• Health psychology

These are studioed with an option topic which could include criminal and forensics psychology, child developmental psychology, psychopathy or applied sport psychology.

Please note: Units/topics of study are subject to change

You will also have an individual study programme to help you build the skills and experience you need to progress onto higher education or gain employment.

Entry requirements

Our college tutors are looking for students who are committed, enthusiastic and have a desire to excel in the science industry, so please contact Admissions if you do not have the specific requirements outlined below.

Academic requirements

• 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C) or above, including English (Language or Literature), Maths and Science.

English and maths

If you do not have a grade 4/C or above in English and maths and you are under 19 , you will be required to study these subjects alongside your vocational subject. After enrolment you will complete an assessment with our teaching team so we can ensure you receive appropriate English and maths support.

Applicants over 19 are not required to complete maths and English.

Supporting documents required

• School applicants will be required to provide a good school report, which must include attendance. This will be assessed in conjunction with your qualifications and application during the confirmation of your place at University College Birmingham.
• If you are a school leaver (over 19), you will be required to provide a reference from a previous education provider or employer in support of your application.

Guaranteed progression

Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more from this qualification will automatically be guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham. Some undergraduate courses require additional entry requirements, so applicants are advised to check entry requirements before applying.

Key information

Teaching and assessment

For both applied science and psychology, two of the four units are assessed by a written exam, the other two units are assessed as coursework.

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our **Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy **.

Uniform and kit costs

This course requires a uniform and kit costing approximately £30, depending on the items you purchase. (Prices are subject to change each year – exact costs and information on how to order required items will be provided to you prior to enrolment.)

Career opportunities

The example roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.

Forensic Scientist

Average Salary: £30,000

Research scientists

Average Salary: £39,000

Counsellor

Average Salary: £31,000

Psychologist

Average Salary: £49,000

Criminologist

Average Salary: £37,000

Sports psychologist

Average salary: £27,000 – £37,000

Aspiring to a higher level career? Complete this course and you could progress onto our BSc Psychology degree or our Mental Health Nursing ,Adult Nursing orPhysiotherapy degree programmes.

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Applied Science with Psychology Level 3 - Detailed Extraction

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Degree Overview:

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Key Objectives:

• Deepen understanding of key scientific and psychological topics
• Enhance practical skills through extensive laboratory work
• Conduct independent research in a chosen area of interest
• Gain a strong foundation for further study in Psychology or Applied Sciences

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Outline:

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Year 1:

• Biology: Focus on cells, cardiovascular, respiratory, and excretory systems.
• Physics: Dive into the electromagnetic spectrum, materials, and thermal physics.
• Practical Techniques: Master techniques like titration, colorimetry, chromatography, and colorimetry.
• Investigations: Conduct inquiries into enzymes, plants, diffusion, fuels, and electrical circuits.
• Laboratory Practice: Learn and implement health and safety protocols, and delve into manufacturing techniques and data analysis.
• Psychology:
• Introduction to psychological approaches and applications.
• Fundamentals of conducting psychological research.
• An exploration of Health psychology.
• Optional Psychology Topic: Choose one from various options like criminal and forensic psychology, child developmental psychology, psychopathy, or applied sport psychology.

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Year 2:

• Advanced coursework and laboratory work building on Year 1 foundation.
• Completion of an independent research project in an area of specific interest.

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Assessment:

• Two units of each subject (Applied Science and Psychology) are assessed through written exams.
• Two units in each subject are assessed via coursework assignments.

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Teaching:

• Teaching and Learning: Employing various methods, including lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and individual supervision for research projects.
• Faculty: Experienced academics and researchers in their respective fields lead the program.
• Unique Approach: Emphasis on hands-on learning, research-based projects, and utilizing the latest educational technologies for an engaging and stimulating learning environment.

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Careers:

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Potential Careers:

• Forensic Scientist
• Research Scientist
• Counsellor
• Psychologist
• Criminologist
• Sports Psychologist

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Progression:

Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more are guaranteed placement in a relevant degree program at University College Birmingham.

• Entry Requirements: 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade D) or above, including English (Language or Literature), Maths and Science.
• Application Deadline: September
• Cost: View Fees
• Contact Information: 0121 214 2919, feadmissions@ucb.ac.uk or live chat

University College Birmingham

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Overview:

University College Birmingham (UCB) is a vibrant and welcoming institution located in the heart of Birmingham, England. It offers a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeship, and college courses. UCB is known for its world-class facilities, which have been significantly enhanced through a £200 million investment.

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Services Offered:

The context does not provide specific details about the services offered to students.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCB boasts a supportive and friendly student community, where students can forge lifelong friendships and find a sense of belonging. The institution offers campus tours led by student ambassadors, who provide insights into student life and facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class facilities:

UCB has invested heavily in its campuses, equipment, and resources, providing students with a high-quality learning environment.

University of Warwick accreditation:

Many of UCB's programs are accredited and awarded by the University of Warwick, a prestigious Russell Group university, ensuring high academic standards.

Location:

Situated in the heart of Birmingham, UCB offers students access to a thriving business environment, beautiful green spaces, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse cultural scene.

Student choice:

UCB is the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice, as recognized by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024.

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Academic Programs:

UCB offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

A variety of undergraduate degree courses.

Postgraduate:

A selection of postgraduate degree courses.

Apprenticeships:

Higher level apprenticeships.

College:

College courses.

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Other: