Science

Picture yourself investigation a crime scene, or discovering a new cure for an age-old disease: both careers begin with science. Whether your interest lies with medical or forensic science, you will need practical skills and knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics.

What next?
Students can progress to university where there are a wide range of scientific degrees that will help you to develop specialist skills such as those required in forensic science or medical science. Alternatively you could work in a junior role within the health sector or in an industrial laboratory.

Potential Careers
Biomedical Scientist: £21k-£34k per year
Pharmacy Technician: £18k-£21k per year
Clinical Scientist: £30k-£40k per year
Clinical Technologist: £25k-£34k per year
Medical Laboratory Scientist: £21k-£34k per year

"I really enjoyed this course. The tutors give you as much help as you need and were well-organised. The facilities are also really good."
Arusa Tabasum, BTEC First Diploma in Applied Science.

Are you fascinated by the world around you and curious to find out more about the world we live in?

Learners studying BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Applied Science get straight into practical action in the college’s fully-equipped science laboratories.

Using apparatus like flasks, condensers and thermometers, learners are discovering how to separate two different liquids from one another.

Lecturer Femi has explained that the process is called distillation, and is used by scientists all over the world every day to create well-known products and services we know and trust. 

Real-life examples include turning crude oil into the fuel used to power cars and the production process for alcoholic drinks.

Dressed in lab coats and wearing safety goggles, learners excitedly add their findings to assignment notebooks.

Afterwards the class analyse their findings together and discuss what the real-world consequences would be. 

Learners studying Applied Science courses at Redbridge College discover the everyday techniques used by scientists.

There are no exams on the course, as assessment takes place through assignments and practical work.

Femi says: “Applied Science is an incredibly popular subject for students. The course is very hands-on and practical.

“It really prepares learners who want to progress on to university and study subjects like Forensic Science, Biomedical Science, or Pharmacy.”

He adds: “The skills our learners gain like problem solving, decision making and how to think analytically can also be applied to a huge range of careers beyond the scientific industry.”