Chemistry

A Level

Chemistry is the exploration of the structure, properties and behaviour of matter, and in this A Level, you will discover more about the changes that happen to matter during chemical reactions. Chemistry is involved in so many aspects of day-to-day life, and in this fascinating subject you’ll answer questions such as why do onions make you cry and why does ice float in fizzy drinks?

You’ll learn about the science behind the chemical reactions we experience daily, explore the material world, and delve deeper into the very nature of matter.

The examining body for this qualification is AQA.

Specific requirements

Achieve a minimum of a grade 6 in GCSE Maths and a grade 6/5 in GCSE Sciences.

General entry criteria will also apply for your chosen pathway.

For more information about the pathways, please click here.

*If predicted a grade 7/7 in Science subjects, a grade 5 in Maths would be accepted.

HNC takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. This information is for guidance only. The College reserves the right to update and amend course information and entry criteria as and when necessary. Please note that from time to time we may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on applicant demand and other factors. Please check this website for the latest information and our current course offer.

Your learning experience

This academic A Level will see you learning about a wide range of concepts and scientific theories, including:

  • Atomic structure
  • Energetics
  • Rates of reaction
  • Organic chemistry
  • Chemical analysis

An enriching experience

Studying A Level Chemistry at HNC is an enriching experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and interests, broadening your horizons and building your cultural capital. These experiences are integral to life at HNC and will help you to stand out from the crowd. Some of the experiences our A Level Chemistry students enjoy include:

  • Visits to universities and employers to help you to understand progression routes and support to apply for prestigious summer schools at Russell Group Universities
  • Visiting speakers and lecturers to expand your knowledge and inspire your next steps
  • Participation in national competitions such as the RSC (Royal Society of Chemistry) School’s Analyst Competition
  • Taking part in lunchtime enrichments such as Dissection Club, the Chemistry Olympiad and the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge
  • Access to UpLearn, an AI powered study guide designed to develop your knowledge and maximise your exam success

Enlightening opportunities

We are proud of the unique experiences that are available to our students both inside and outside of the classroom. Our subject specialists will instil in you a love of learning, and challenge you to develop the required skills you’ll need to achieve the life-changing qualifications that will lead you to your dream career. Throughout your studies, your teachers will create an environment where you will be encouraged to discuss a wide-range of topics which will support you to develop an enlightened approach to the world around you. These discussions will be linked to your passions, study programme and your wider career ambitions.

How will you be assessed?

This course is assessed by examination. There are also 12 required practicals that must be completed for you to achieve the Practical Endorsement.

Where does it lead?

A Level Chemistry opens up an incredible range of opportunities. As a traditional subject it is valued highly by universities and is often described as a central science; it is often a requirement for many STEM and STEM related degree courses. If you’re thinking of studying A Level Chemistry and pursuing a STEM based career, we recommend that your study programme contains at least one other STEM based subject. This is because many universities will require more than one Science as part of their entry requirements.

A Level Chemistry students progress to university to study subjects such as:

  • Medicine
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Forensic Science
  • Geological Exploration
  • Dentistry
Perfect pairings

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Good to Know
If you’re thinking of studying A Level Chemistry and pursuing a STEM based career we recommend that your study programme contains at least one other STEM based subject. This is because many universities will require more than one Science as part of their entry requirements
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