Course overview

Chemistry A Level City of Bristol College

Chemistry is the science of materials: their composition, structure, properties, behaviour and the chemical changes they undergo during a reaction with other substances.

You can apply chemistry in all areas of the modern world. This includes the environment, engineering, medicine, pharmacology, forensics, geology, planetary science, food production, and industrial chemical production.

This course is an option within our science A Level pathway.

  • Science Pathway course code: ALSCIENCE

Find out more about our A Level pathways and how to apply

Additional information

Who is this course for?

This course is for 16-18 years olds with an interest in chemistry, and who may be aspiring to a career in science.

What you'll learn

You will learn the fundamentals of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry in a supportive environment. Chemistry is an inherently experimental subject, so you will undertake practical work to help build your chemistry skills.

Topics of study include atomic structure, thermodynamics, optical isomerism, aromatic chemistry, periodicity, transition metals and many more.

Course entry requirements

5 x GCSEs at grade 4 and above including GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 and above plus a grade 7/7 in Combined Science & 6 in Maths or 6 in Chemistry & 6 in Maths.

We will invite you to a course information meeting event where you will receive information, advice and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other this will include attendance. This is to ensure we can support to be able to achieve well on the course. Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criteria. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference / school report.

At course information meeting you will be able to discuss the Pathways for A Levels and look at combinations, We will ensure you are of the specific entry requirements at GCSE grade per A Level subject as some subjects will require higher than grade 5.

How is the course delivered and assessed?

You will be assessed throughout the duration of the course via a combination of examinations and practical assessments.

Future career and study opportunities

After studying A Level Chemistry you may choose to progress into higher education to study Chemistry or another scientific subject. Potential career sectors include engineering, medicine, pharmacology, forensics, geology, planetary science and food production.

Additional costs

This course is free to anyone aged 16-18.

There is no formal list of additional costs.

However, if you are on a limited income, you may be eligible to receive help with these costs from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.

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