AS/A Level Physics

Key Details

Available at:
Llangefni, Rhos-on-Sea, Pwllheli, Rhyl, Dolgellau
Study Mode:
Full-time
Course Length:
1-2 years

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AS/A Level Physics

Full-time (Further Education)

Dolgellau

Llangefni

Pwllheli

Rhos-on-Sea

Rhyl

Applying for more than one A Level? You can apply from this page and you will have the opportunity to add your additional A Level subjects at the end of the application process.

Please note: We recommend that you have access to a laptop or Chromebook to enable coursework to be completed digitally at home. There is a dedicated IT Digital Inclusion fund to support those learners who do not have a digital device and are unable to purchase one.

Course Description

This course develops your understanding of Physics, both the underlying concepts and the practical implications. It can lead to careers in science, engineering, computing and other areas. It also provides preparation for Higher Education, and the problem solving skills used in physics are valuable in all disciplines.

It is also a valuable and interesting subject in its own right. Physics lies at the heart of Science. It is the study of the natural world, with a view to identifying patterns of behaviour, some of which can be summarised in simple Laws of Physics.

The course is suitable if you are a committed student and have achieved good Physics/Science and Maths grades at GCSE level. The course will enhance your interest in the subject and its wider applications, allowing you to excel.

On this course you will develop a wide understanding of Physics and its applications from pioneers like Newton to present day space scientists.

Year 1 (AS)

Unit 1: Motion, Energy and Matter

In this module you will build on work previously studied in your GCSE course and study some of the most fundamental aspects of Physics. You will also be introduced to new work, which is completely different from that studied at GCSE, including the study of stars and physics particles.

Unit 2: Electricity and Light

In this unit, you will study electrical circuits and electrical currents in nature. In addition, you will look at the characteristics of waves, including light waves, dual nature and operation of lasers.

Year 2 (Higher)

Unit 3: Oscillations and Nuclei

In this unit you will study more complex oscillations, including oscillations in a circle and oscillating. You will also study Nuclear physics, including the methods of producing energy from the nucleus.

Unit 4: Fields and Options

A core part of this module is about gravitational fields, both electrical and magnetic. This will include a study of the orbits of planets (astrophysics). There is a choice of four options for further study:

Option A : Alternating Currents
Option B : Medical Physics
Option C : Physics Sports
Option D : Sustainability and Environment

Unit 5: Practical Examination

In this examination, you will be assessed on the practical skills you've learned during the previous four units.

Entry Criteria

Applying for A Levels? Click ‘Apply Now’ on any of the subjects you are interested in studying. You will be able to specify your other two A Level choices during the online application process.

The A Level subject grids for each campus can be found in the guides on the A Level section of the website.

In order to qualify for this course, you will need the following:

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English or Welsh 1st Language
GCSE Double Award Science grade BB or GCSE Physics grade B. GCSE Mathematics (Higher Tier) grade B. GCSE / BTEC Applied Science is not accepted.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to attend an interview to give you the opportunity to discuss the course.

Progression to A Level is based on your performance at AS Level.

Delivery

Students are regarded as creative people, making their own sense of phenomena they meet.

The course involves learning through experience as much as possible. The learning activities reflect this and include:

working in groups
independent study
reporting
reading
discussion
the use of computers in practical work
educational visits
MOODLE (virtual learning environment)

Your programme will include a combination of:

Essential Skills qualifications and/or
GCSE resits and/or
The Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate is a valuable qualification which is often studied alongside your Level 3 full-time course.

The qualification is graded A*-E, carrying the equivalent UCAS points at Level 3, and equips you with transferable personal and business skills. It is highly regarded by universities and employers alike.

As part of the qualification, you will learn about Global Citizenship, Enterprise and Employability and take part in community engagement and work experience.

Essential Skills

This may include a combination of Application of Number, Communication, Digital Literacy and Essential Employability Skills

GCSE resits

This may include GCSE Numeracy/Maths and/or Welsh/English Language.

Maths & Welsh/English

If you don't achieve a C or above in Maths and/ or English/Welsh, we will support you to retake these subjects as part of your study programme.

Assessment

The course is assessed in the first year for the AS Level and in the 2nd year for the A Level.

AS: 2 examinations in Late May/Early June at the end of the 1st year (worth 40% of the total A Level); and
A2: Practical Examination, March of the 2nd year, and 2 examinations in June of the 2nd year (worth 60% of the total A Level).

Progression

Whether you study the full A Level or just the AS Level, the course adds to your qualifications and helps you to progress. You will gain UCAS points and be able to apply for a range of Higher Education courses at many institutions. You will find that A Level Physics is highly regarded by universities and by employers, particularly for the logical thinking and practical skills it develops.

If you choose to continue your studies in a related subject, there are many degree courses available in Pure and Applied Physics.

A Level Physics can be combined with other A Levels to lead to a broad range of career paths, including numerate careers such as Accountancy, Architecture, Business and Cartography.

It is also advantageous for a career in the Physical Sciences, in Chemistry, in Life Sciences, including Medicine and Veterinary Science, in Aviation or Meteorology, and for a career in Engineering, including Electronics and Computing.

Your studies on the A Level course will help you to make an informed choice from the options available.