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Science

Psychology

Submitted by admin on 14 December 2011 - 2.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

AS Level

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

What are the differences between males and females? Is there a connection between your personality and the types of art you like? What makes one person become a pillar of society and the other not 'give a fig' for the rules? Psychology is the key to unlocking these and other fascinating issues that result from people's behaviours, motivations, thinking, emotional experiences and more. Come and explore with us because we're sure you'll will find psychology useful, exciting and challenging.

Progression 

Successful completion of the AS part will give you the necessary skills and knowledge to be able to progress onto the A2 part of the A level.

An A Level in Psychology is useful for students wishing to pursue a wide range of careers including teaching, counselling and other health professions, human resources, business, prison services, and of course the professional academic route such as clinical and educational psychology. An A Level Psychology attracts UCAS points for those wishing to enter higher education.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four to five* GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English and maths (B desirable) and CC in double science)
  • an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject
  • a BTEC first diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 2 / technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of an apprenticeship programme
  • successful completion of the Gateway / Newstart programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

* A level candidates will be expected to have five GCSEs

Duration 

One year

Are there any exams? 

AS Unit 1 is assessed by a written exam that will last for one hour 30 minutes and accounts for 25% of the AS marks.

AS Unit 2 is also assessed by a written exam that will last for one hour 30 minutes which also accounts for 25% of the AS marks. These account for 50% of the total A level marks.

A2 unit 3 is assessed by a written exam that lasts one hour 30 minutes and accounts for 25% of the A2 marks.

A2 unit 4 is also assessed by a written exam of two hours and also counts for 25% of the A2 marks.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The Psychology A level follows the AQA syllabus and aims to develop an enthusiasm for psychology and an understanding of psychological theories, concepts and principles. The course will also develop your critical and analytical skills and is an appropriate and relevant foundation of knowledge and skills for the study of psychology in higher education.

 

The AS year comprises three units ...

Unit 1 (Key Approaches, Research Methods & Gender)

  • The main approaches in psychology: biological, psychodynamic, behaviourist, humanistic, cognitive and bio- psychological.
  • Exploring how each of these historic viewpoints explains the different facets of human behaviour.
  • How psychology is researched and analysed as a scientific discipline using statistical methods.
  • Exploring ethics in psychology and its impact on types of research.
  • Exploring how gender identity develops and what same and cross-cultural research tells us about differences in gender roles.

Unit 2 (Social Influence, Memory and Theories of Forgetting, and Anxiety)

  • How conformity, compliance and obedience can affect people's decision making and may lead to examples of extreme behaviour.
  • How models of memory explain the differences between short-term and long-term memory and their functions.
  • How and why we forget things and how we can learn NOT to.
  • Exploring the origins of phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder and treatments available.

The A2 year comprises of two units ...

Unit 3 (Child Development and Applied Options)

  • Explore how moral devolopment occurs in children.
  • The causes, symptoms and treatments of Schizophrenia and substance abuse.

Unit 4 (Approaches, Debates and methods in Psychology)

  • How the main approaches and debates in psychology contribute to our understanding of areas in psychology.
  • How psychology is researched and analysed using advanced as a scientific discipline using advanced statistical methods.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Physics

Submitted by admin on 14 December 2011 - 2.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

AS Level

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

Physics is the most fundamental of all the sciences. It studies everything from the smallest particles deep inside the atom all the way up to the large scale structure of the whole Universe. In between it is responsible for a stunning range of science and technologies including compact discs, X-Rays, ultrasound scanning and plasma screen televisions. This one year course uses the exciting new OCR physics syllabus. This ground-breaking course provides a good background in physics and investigates many exciting areas physics is involved in. Of course some knowledge of mathematics is required.

Progression 

Physics leads to an enormous range of courses and careers. The AS physics course is recognised as a good entry qualification for a wide range of higher education courses and employment opportunities. Successful students may wish to progress to the exciting new one year A2 physics course.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this course you will need one of the following:

  • Five GCSEs at grade C or above including English and maths. You will need to have achieved high grades in your science GCSEs.
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One year

Are there any exams? 

Units one and two are assessed by written papers. Unit three assesses practical skills which are internally assessed. There are three tasks to perform during the year.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The new course consists of the following units:

  • unit one - mechanics
    You will learn about motion, forces and energy. Applications include safety features of cars, forces and engineering, and energy supply now and in the future
  • unit two - electrons, waves and photons
    You will learn about electric circuits and apply such principles to devices such as LEDs and thermistors. The unit also features a study of the principles of waves, these are applied to sound and the electromagnetic spectrum. Light can be viewed in terms of photons or waves; this provides the remainding topic of thisunit. Applications and connections are made with new technologies and particle physics.
  • unit three - practical physics
    This unit will give you the opportunity to carry out practical work in some exciting areas of physics.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Chemistry

Submitted by admin on 14 December 2011 - 2.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

AS Level

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

Chemistry is an incredibly exciting subject. It's at the heart of life itself and the basis for everything that surrounds us. Our course will introduce you to this pioneering area of science. It will teach you the basic laboratory skills and give you a thorough grounding in the subject to stimulate your interest to discover more. You never know where this course could lead you. The future may see you eagerly taking up your place in a research team to push the frontiers of chemical knowledge.

Progression 

The AS may be awarded as a discrete qualification providing points for entry to higher education. Successful students may progress to the one year A2 programme. All A2 programmes run subject to numbers. Chemistry A Level is an essential entry requirement to all university chemistry / biology courses, and medical school.

Entry Requirements 

In order to be successful on this course you will need one of the following:

  • five GCSEs at grade C or above including English and Maths. You will need to have achieved high grades in your science GCSEs.
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One year

Are there any exams? 

Each unit is assessed by a written exam. In addition, there is a practical assessment in unit 3.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course content is as follows: * unit 1: structure, bonding common main group chemistry

  • unit 2: introductory organic chemistry, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium and applications
  • unit 3: laboratory chemistry - a test of basic laboratory skills assessed through an externally marked practical assessment paper.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Science

Submitted by admin on 14 December 2011 - 2.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Access to Higher Education Diploma

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

Our Access to Higher Education Diploma is a fantastic way to help you get into university.

Science is a fascinating and varied subject and affects virtually every aspect of our lives - what we eat, how healthy we are, and how we work. Our access course will allow you to pursue a variety of pathways from entry to degree programmes such as biological or environmental sciences, ecology, geology and chemistry, or entry into health professions such as physiotherapy, radiography, dietetics and podiatry. You will study biology, chemistry, maths and study skills. Psychology and physics are also possible options.

 

Progression 

This course is intended for students aiming to progress onto Degree or Diploma courses in the Sciences or in Allied Health Professions. Direct entry to degree courses in biological or environmental sciences, ecology, geology, and chemistry is usual with this qualification. It is also appropriate for entry into health professions such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiography, dietetics and podiatry. The course has an excellent record of university entry.

Entry Requirements 

You will need to have successfully achieved a level 2 literacy and level 2 numeracy qualification.

Duration 

One year

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Assessment includes coursework, practical work reports, essays and examinations. Help will be given in preparation for these.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

You will study biology, chemistry, mathematics, and study skills. Psychology and physics are possible options.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Forensic Science

Submitted by admin on 9 December 2011 - 1.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Foundation Degree, FdSc (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Five

UCAS Code 

F411

What's it all about? 

Forensic science is one of the most fascinating areas of applied science - the use of scientific procedures to produce evidence in a court of law. This course provides knowledge and skills appropriate to an increasingly important area of science. It covers the major scientific disciplines involved in the investigation of crime.

Progression 

On successful completion you may be eligible to progress to:

  • the second year of the BSc (Hons) Analytical Chemistry degree at Plymouth University
  • the second or third year of the honors degree in a related subject at a range of universities
  • a wide range of careers such as scene of crime investigation, laboratory forensic science and other scientific support services.

Entry Requirements 

We welcome applications from those who have a minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above including English, double science and maths, and one or more of the following:

  • 120 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • a 14-19 advanced diploma
  • an advanced Apprenticeship
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

Assessment will be through a variety of assignments which involve both practical and written projects. The emphasis will be on practical development supported by portfolios. There are two examinations at stage 2.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course includes the following modules:

  • managing a crime scene
  • collection of forensic evidence
  • laboratory investigation of forensic evidence
  • scientific principles involved in forensic science
  • criminology
  • forensic psychology
  • English criminal law
  • legal aspects associated with forensic science work
  • forensic scientist as an expert witness in a court of law

When can I study? 

Three days per week

Medical Science

Submitted by admin on 7 December 2011 - 12.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

BTEC Subsidiary/Extended Diploma

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

If you have always imagined you would enjoy a career in the realm of medical sciences then take a look at our course. This practical and work-based programme introduces you to a wide range of topics in the biological and medical sciences as well as specialist subjects such as human physiology and genetic engineering.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the Forensic Science Foundation Degree at the College
  • other degree-level courses at a range of universities
  • employment in hospitals, research laboratories or in the chemical industry.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience, in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four to five GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English, maths and science)
  • an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject
  • a BTEC first diploma in a related subject at merit
  • an NVQ level 2/technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of an apprenticeship programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

Your assessment will include coursework, practical assignments and internally set tests.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The subsidiary diploma consists of the following units:
• fundamentals of science
• working in the science industry
• scientific practical techniques
• using mathematic calculations for science
• using statistics in science
• physiology of human body systems
• biochemistry and biochemical techniques.

The extended diploma consists of the following units:
• biomedical science techniques
• chemical laboratory techniques
• medical instrumentation
• scientific investigations
• physiology of human regulation and reproduction
• microbiological and medical physics techniques
• genetics and genetic engineering
• practical chemical analysis
• clinical psychology
• diseases and infections.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Applied Science

Submitted by admin on 7 December 2011 - 12.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

BTEC First Diploma

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

Can you think of anything more important than understanding the world we live in and how it works? Science informs how we live our lives - what we eat, how healthy we are, how we work. Science affects virtually every aspect of our lives and you can discover how on our science course. You will get the chance to study a wide variety of subjects whether you want to study science for sheer intellectual curiosity or as a means of answering the myriad of questions you have.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • higher levels of study such as a national diploma in forensic science or medical science at the College
  • employment in a scientific career.

 

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four GCSEs at grades D-F (including English and maths)
  • a BTEC foundation diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 1/technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of the PLP/Prince's Trust course
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One year

Are there any exams? 

Your assessment will include coursework, practical assignments and externally set tests.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course consists of the following units ...

Mandatory:
• chemistry and our earth
• energy and our universe
• biology and our environment.

Optional:
• applications of chemical substances
• applications of physical science
• health application of life sciences
• the living body
• investigating a crime scene
• science in medicine.

When can I study? 

Full-time

Forensic Science

Submitted by admin on 7 December 2011 - 12.45 am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

BTEC Subsidiary/Extended Diploma

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

Forensic science is a fascinating blend of theoretical science applied to the criminal mind and crime scenes. For someone with an inquiring mind and an eagerness to learn it's a compelling subject. Our diploma course will give you a thorough grounding in the scientific techniques and methods used by those whose workplaces are at scenes of crime, in the laboratory and testifying in court.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • a foundation degree in forensic science or public services at the College
  • a wide range of careers in the forensic science service, regional government and the police.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this course you will need one of the following:

  • four to five GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English, maths and science)
  • an intermediate GNVQ (with merit)
  • a BTEC first diploma at merit level
  • an NVQ level 2/technical certificate
  • successful completion of an apprenticeship course
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

Your assessment will include coursework, practical assignments and vocational integrated assignments.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The subsidiary diploma consists of the following units:
• fundamentals of science
• working in the science industry
• scientific practical techniques
• using mathematical calculations for science
• using statistics in science
• forensic evidence collection and analysis
• criminal psychology.

The extended diploma consists of the following units:
• physiology of human body systems
• chemical laboratory and microbiological techniques
• criminal investigation procedures/practice
• scientific investigations
• perceptions of science
• genetics and genetic engineering
• practical chemical analysis
• criminology
• applications of forensic psychology
• forensic science informatics.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Science

Submitted by admin on 2 December 2011 - 10.45 pm
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

GCSE

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

When you hear the word science, what image immediately springs to mind? Rows of bubbling test tubes, strange smells, white coats and unintelligible scribblings? Good, because experimenting is what science is all about. Pushing back the boundaries of what you know to discover what you don't know. Science makes a positive impact on people's lives and as a scientist you'll use your expertise to find real solutions to some very difficult problems.

Progression 

Suitable for entry to A levels or BTEC qualifications or to support an application to teaching.

Entry Requirements 

This is an intensive one year course, therefore if you are re-sitting this qualification within three years you must have obtained a minimum Grade D on completion. Mature applicants will be considered on an individual basis.  In all cases numeracy and literacy assessments will be undertaken as part of the application process.

Duration 

30 weeks

Are there any exams? 

The course is assessed by externally assessed multiple choice tiered tests and structured exams and internally assessed coursework. In order to be successful you will need to carry out independent study activities in the form of additional research and assessments outside of the scheduled class activities.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course studies various aspects of biology, chemistry and physics.

When can I study? 

Thursdays, 6.00pm - 9.00pm

College Celebrates Students’ Success

Submitted by psmith on 14 January 2011 - 12.29 pm

Staff and students at City College Plymouth are celebrating today after the City’s league tables showed that the College was ranked fourth* out of the fifteen non-selective schools and colleges in the City. The College’s average points score per exam entry is 208.7.

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