Chemistry Summary

A-level Chemistry studies the material world and gives you an understanding of the processes that lie at the heart of everyday life. From baking a cake to recharging a mobile phone, chemistry is involved in everything we do; and our lives are inextricably influenced by many aspects of chemistry. Chemistry will continue to be at the forefront of responding the needs of society; with chemists central to making advances in designing new materials, efficient energy use, drug development, and technology, to name but a few. 

A-level Chemistry courses cover a wide variety of basic concepts such as the structure of the atom; the interaction of matter and energy; how to control reactions; patterns in the Periodic Table; understanding carbon-based molecules. 

Entry Requirements

  • 5 x grade 5 or above (including GCSE Maths and English Language)
  • Grade 6 in Maths 
  • Grade 6 in Chemistry (or 6/6 in Combined Science) 

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA

How you will study

You will be taught key subject content by expert teachers who will select the context and applications that they know bring the subject alive. The specification allows for practicals to be at the heart of science, chemistry is fundamentally an experimental subject. These specifications provide numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality, and equip students with the essential practical skills they need. 

Component breakdown

Paper 1- Relevant physical chemistry topics 

  • Inorganic chemistry 
  • Relevant practical skills 

Paper 2- Relevant physical chemistry topics 

  • Organic chemistry  
  • Relevant practical skills 

Paper 3-

  • Synoptic Paper 

Chemistry can lead to a broad range of degrees, and can lead to careers in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science, as well as chemistry-based degrees, such as pharmacy, pharmacology, and biochemistry.  

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