16-18 Courses, 16-18: Vocational

Applied Science and Medical Science AAQ (Combined Level 3 Extended Certificate)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

You should have four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, ideally including English, maths and a technology-related subject.

This programme is designed for students who are ready for Level 3 study but do not yet meet the entry requirements for a T Level or Extended Diploma. If you do not currently hold a grade 4 in English or maths, you will have the opportunity to retake one GCSE alongside your studies in year 1.

At enrolment, our team will review your qualifications and progression goals to make sure this is the right course for you.

Course information

Begin your journey into the world of health and science with the Level 3 Applied and Academic Qualification (AAQ) in Applied Science and Medical Science. This two-year programme focuses on developing the scientific knowledge and practical laboratory skills needed for careers in medical, biomedical and healthcare fields. It provides a strong foundation for progression to higher-level study or employment in the science and health sectors.

You will complete two single A Level-sized vocational qualifications, one each year, exploring key areas of biology, chemistry, physics and medical science. Through hands-on laboratory work, you will investigate human anatomy and physiology, health diagnostics, disease processes and the application of science in medical settings. The course is designed for students ready for Level 3 learning but who do not yet meet the entry requirements for a T Level. It also provides the opportunity to retake either GCSE English or maths in the first year.

Students who successfully complete their first-year qualification and GCSE retake will progress to the second-year AAQ. Strong performers may also be considered for progression to a T Level in Science with Laboratory Technician Specialism, depending on their results and career aspirations.

This programme offers an excellent pathway to build confidence, gain practical experience and prepare for a rewarding future in healthcare, biomedical research, pharmaceuticals or laboratory-based careers.

Key topics

  • Principles of biology, chemistry and physics in applied and medical science
  • Human anatomy and physiology, including body systems and disease processes
  • Health diagnostics and medical testing techniques
  • Biomedical science applications and laboratory investigation
  • Cell biology, genetics and microbiology
  • Chemistry for health and life sciences, including reactions, compounds and analytical testing
  • Medical physics and imaging technologies
  • Scientific research methods, data analysis and laboratory reporting
  • Infection prevention and control in healthcare settings
  • Ethical practice, health and safety, and professional conduct in science
  • Project planning, teamwork and communication skills for scientific environments
  • Why study at NCC?

    • We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
    • Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
    • Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
    • Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
    • One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
    • Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
    • Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
    • Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
    • A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed

    At New City College, you’ll learn in modern, fully equipped science labs, combining hands-on experiments with theory to build practical skills, critical thinking and problem-solving.

    With strong partnerships with the NHS, research institutions and top employers, you’ll gain meaningful experience and a clear understanding of where science can take you, from medicine and healthcare to forensics, environmental science and beyond.

    We’re proud to have been awarded the Certified Innovation Programme (CIP) Accreditation from the Institute of Knowledge Exchange, recognising our commitment to innovation in STEM and marking our journey towards becoming a Centre of Excellence in Science.

    Alongside your studies, you’ll benefit from competitions, workshops, guest speakers and trips, giving you the confidence and foundation to progress to university, medical school or a rewarding career in the science sector.

Available Campuses

Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 30/06/2027
Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 30/06/2027
Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 30/06/2027
Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 30/06/2027
Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 30/06/2027

What Can This Course Lead To

After completing the Level 3 AAQ in Applied Science and Medical Science, you can progress to further study, apprenticeships or employment in the science and healthcare sectors.

Most students progress onto a T Level in Science, where they can specialise further and gain the UCAS points needed for higher-level study. Others may choose a higher-level apprenticeship or entry-level employment in laboratory, healthcare or research support roles.

This qualification provides a strong foundation in applied and medical science, helping you build the knowledge, practical experience and confidence needed to take the next step towards a career in health, life sciences or laboratory-based work.

Life At NCC

Discover what life is like at the largest college in East London today!

Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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