Chemistry - A Level (AQA)

A Level Chemistry explores the raw materials that make up our built environment, the petrochemical industry and the contribution of chemicals to global warming. You will study chemistry in the context of the environment and business, as well as the use of chemistry in the development of new medicines. The course features lots of practical laboratory work, allowing you to develop hands-on investigative and problem-solving skills.

Topics covered can include:

• Core organic
• Inorganic and physical chemistry
• Atomic theory
• Structure and Bonding
• Redox
• Periodic Table and calculations involving amounts of substances
• Modern analytical methods
• Energetics
• Kinetics and equilibrium

Studying chemistry at A-level will help you understand the world in which you live. You will study physical, organic and inorganic chemistry, and undertake practical work to develop your skills. The work will be stimulating and challenging. You will learn about current topics such as fuel cells, useful catalysts and the impact of chemical reactions on the environment. You will learn how to analyse data and how to problem solve, building on the knowledge you have gained at GCSE.

You will need:

• Grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language
• Grade 7 or above in GCSE Maths*
• Grade 6-6 or above in GCSE Combined Science (if you are studying GCSE Triple Science, you will need grade 6 in Chemistry and grade 6 in either Physics or Biology)
• A further GCSE at grade 4 or above

*If you have a Grade 6 in GCSE Maths, a Maths for Chemistry class will be added to your study programme.

If you wish to study 4 A Levels, you will need 7 GCSEs at grade 7 or above, including two at grade 8.

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that A Levels are suitable for them.

We recommend studying another science or maths subject, such as Physics, Biology, Psychology or Electronics, alongside Chemistry.

Assessment is by exam at the end of two years. Your practical skills will also be tested by a specially written paper.

School Leavers

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

A Levels are widely regarded as the standard entry qualification for top universities in the UK, and the rest of the world. Many of our students go onto study for a degree at the university of their choice, with some choosing to progress into apprenticeships or other employment.