Chemistry A Level - Level 3
Overview
An A Level in chemistry will help you to build and develop your knowledge of chemical principles through a combination of practical and theory-based work.
Chemistry has a huge impact on our lives. From the development of new medicines and electronic gadgets to how we control levels of pollution or identify materials in outer space, the study of chemistry plays an important role in the modern world.
You will learn to:
- Describe, explain and interpret phenomena and effects in terms of chemical principles and concepts
- Reacting amounts, structures, bonding, energetics, equilibria and organic
chemistry
- Carry out relevant calculations and interpret data
- Assess the validity of chemical information, experiments, inferences and statements
- Interpret, explain, evaluate and communicate the results of your experimental and investigative activities
- Identify any hazards in the chemicals to be used or made, or in the procedures to be followed.
Recommended courses to study alongside this A Level include:
What will I study?
This course will help you to build and develop your knowledge of the three main areas of chemistry (physical, organic and inorganic) through a good mix of practical and theory based work.
Core areas will include linking atomic structure to the chemical and physical properties of materials, investigating factors which affect the rate and energy changes of a chemical reaction, and synthesising complex organic molecules from simple precursors.
Entry requirements
- Five GCSEs with at least grade 4/C including English language. Science with 66/BB (double science) or 6/B in chemistry (triple separate sciences) or 655/BCC (triple science - core, further, additional) and with grade 6/B in maths.
- You will need to supply a written reference from your school/college teacher and/or a current school or college report with an indication of your attendance pattern and achievements. This will need to be uploaded to your myVISION account by the end of May.
- Following your application you will normally be offered a place subject to achieving the entry requirements and attending a welcome taster.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
As an entry requirement on some of our courses, you will need a GCSE in both English and maths with at least a grade 4/C (please see entry requirements above).
If this isn’t displayed under the entry requirements and you don’t currently have a GCSE in both English and maths at grade 4/C or above before joining us, you will then study English and maths as part of your programme with the aim of achieving a qualification with at least a grade 4/C. This is to help improve your chances of employment once you leave us.
In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.
How long is the course?
2 years.
How will I be assessed?
A Level certification is awarded upon completion of three examinations at the end of the two year course. A certificate of practical competence if also awarded upon completion of twelve required practical tasks during the course.
Success rates
A Level pass rate 2020 - 100%
What does the course lead to?
Further study at university-level. Chemistry is a compulsory requirement for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary, and science degrees.
What can I progress onto?
This course can lead on to degree courses such as forensic science, veterinary science, medicine, dentistry, chemical engineering or a degree related to the study of health.
The skills and knowledge developed on this course can forge a career for you in fields such as pharmaceutical research, nursing, physiotherapy and veterinary medicine.
Careers
How do I apply?
You don’t need to apply for each A Level course you are interested in individually.
Once we have received your application form we will invite you into college where we will be able to discuss every aspect of the courses you have chosen as well as any alternatives you may be considering.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the areas of the college used for your course choices.
Apply online