Chemistry A Level
Qualification: GCE A Level in Chemistry
Exam Board & Specification Code: OCR; H432; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 4 in English Language GCSE and 5 in Maths GCSE and 2x Grade 6s in 2 Sciences at GCSE (Chemistry plus one other, Combined Science accepted but not Applied Science)
Please make sure that you have understood the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week
Assessment method: 3 exams of varying length plus a practical assessment
BHASVIC Department: Chemistry and Physics
What will I study?
You will learn about atoms, compounds, acid-base and redox reactions. You will learn why things happen and why they sometimes don't! We consider entropy and free energy, the transition elements and organic chemistry in detail in the second year. Lessons contain practical work and problem solving. Practical work is an important aspect, and students generally do one a week (no separate coursework component); students keep a lab book to evidence their skills. Please note that to support you in your success in this A level, the college may ask you to study one lesson per week of specialised mathematical support, targeted specifically at the content of this A level.
Is this course right for me?
Chemistry is right for you if you enjoy problem solving and like to know why things happen. Chemists are interested in applying their knowledge to practical situations. You should be able to work in groups and have the ability to focus independently. Independent study is completed in advance of studying all topics, lessons are interactive and build on this prior learning. There are lots of opportunities to get help and support from the department. Good numeracy and literacy skills are essential. A small percentage of the assessment will be pure recall – instead students are required to apply their knowledge to novel situations and be able to interpret data and draw conclusions. Good with Biology, Maths, Physics, Environmental Science.
Where next?
Chemistry is essential for a large number of careers including medicine, pharmacy, veterinary science and dentistry. Students could also progress into careers in pharmaceuticals, food technology, manufacturing, petrochemicals, journalism and publishing, sales, forensics and teaching. Chemistry helps you to develop research, problem solving and analytical skills. It helps to you challenge ideas as well as working out solutions through logic and step-by-step reasoning. This subject also often requires teamwork and communication skills too, which are useful when working on projects. Useful websites to research careers and wider progression options could include The Royal Society of Chemistry, Chemistry World, All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide.
