A Level Chemistry combines theory with practical experience, encouraging imaginative critical and logical thinking for problem solving. Chemistry is a key subject for many degree courses in science, such as medical, veterinary or dental sciences, biochemistry, or chemistry. Most biological and environmental degrees require a sound A Level pass in Chemistry. It requires analytical powers and academic rigour, and thus lays a suitable foundation for careers in law, accountancy and economics where such qualities are valued. The college has excellent modern facilities to teach this subject.

A Level Chemistry is part of The Sciences Pathway, which also includes Biology, Maths, Further Maths (AS), Psychology and Physics. You will choose 4 AS Level subjects from this pathway in your first year, and then choose 3 subjects to study at A2 in your second year.

Key course features

Qualification: GCE A Level

Level: Level 3

Mode: Full-time

Timetable: This forms part of a full time programme of study of under 16 hours per week. You will receive your timetable when you enrol.

Start Date: September 2013

Fees: For fee information please refer to The Sciences Pathway.

Who is this course for?

Chemistry is an ideal subject if you want to know how a substance is naturally formed, how it might be synthesised in a lab, or how human life is predominantly based on chemical combinations. The course is suitable for school leavers or those returning to study after a break. It would meet the needs of anyone wishing to study chemistry-related subjects at university.

If you need to know whether this course is suitable for you, you may visit the OCR website (www.ocr.org.uk).

Entry requirements

You should have a minimum of 5 appropriate GCSEs at grades A*-C, including maths at grade B or higher and at least grade C in chemistry as a single subject or an A or A* in core or additional science. If you have core and additional science at grade B, you will be asked to sit an entrance test in chemistry. We cannot accept core and additional science at grade C for entry to A Level Chemistry. A GCSE in your home or first language, other than English, cannot be counted as one of the 5 qualifying GCSEs.

About the course

The AS course includes structure and bonding, the periodic table, formulae, equations, energetics, inorganic and organic chemistry. You will learn via practical work, videos, discussions, presentations, group activities and lectures. You will practise calculations involving chemical quantities to improve your numeracy skills.

AS Units OCR-A H034 

• Unit F321 Atoms, bonds and groups 
• Unit F322 Chains, energy and resources 
• Unit F323 Practical skills in chemistry 1

A2 Units OCR-A H434 

• Unit F324 Rings, polymers and analysis
• Unit F325 Equilibria, energetics and elements
• Unit F326 Practical skills in chemistry 2.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is through questions requiring either short or extended answers. Your practical skills are assessed on one task from each of the following categories: qualitative, quantatitive and evaluative tasks. Each practical task is assessed internally and moderated by OCR.

Where next?

Most of our A Level students apply to and are offered places at university.

How to apply?

You cannot apply online for this individual A Level course. To apply, please go to The Sciences Pathway factsheet and click on Apply Now. You will then be asked to select up to 4 AS Level subjects as part of a full-time programme of study. You may be able to change your A Level pathway and subject options when you enrol.