AS Level Chemistry Course

Discover the convenience of Open Learning College’s Distance Learning A-Level Courses, designed to accommodate students worldwide with the flexibility to study from the comfort of home. These comprehensive two-year programs provide access to extensive online course materials and personalised tutor guidance through a virtual learning platform. Upon completion of examinations, students receive certificates endorsed by reputable Awarding Bodies such as Edexcel, AQA, or OCR.

Whether you’re a newcomer to academia or seeking to enhance your qualifications for university admission, our adaptable A-Level courses are tailored to suit your individual needs. Study at your own pace, on your own schedule, and from any location that suits you.

Our comprehensive two-year A-Level Courses cover both the AS and A2 components, requiring students to sit exams as private candidates at approved examination centres. Successful completion of all required exams within a single assessment period ensures eligibility for the full A-Level qualification.

Chemistry, as a subject, holds immense significance both academically and professionally, making it a highly commendable addition to any curriculum vitae (CV). Esteemed by universities and employers alike, chemistry showcases a profound depth of learning that necessitates the mastery of a multitude of skills. From mathematical prowess to scientific reasoning, from effective written and verbal communication to practical application, chemistry demands a comprehensive skill set that is highly valued across various domains. This interdisciplinary nature of chemistry not only underscores its academic rigour but also highlights its relevance in addressing real-world challenges and fostering innovation.

Universities and employers regard chemistry as a hallmark of academic excellence due to its rigorous curriculum and its emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students of chemistry are trained to analyse complex phenomena, evaluate evidence, and draw logical conclusions, thereby demonstrating their intellectual acumen and analytical prowess. Moreover, the practical aspect of chemistry, including laboratory work and experimentation, instils in students a hands-on approach to learning, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific principles and methodologies.

Furthermore, chemistry opens a myriad of opportunities in diverse fields, ranging from pharmaceuticals and healthcare to environmental science and materials engineering. A solid foundation in chemistry equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle pressing global issues, such as climate change, pollution, and disease prevention. Moreover, chemistry serves as the cornerstone of innovation and technological advancement, driving progress in areas such as renewable energy, nanotechnology, and drug discovery.

Beyond its academic and professional significance, chemistry plays a pivotal role in addressing pressing global challenges and advancing societal well-being. By fostering a deeper understanding of chemical processes and their implications, chemistry empowers individuals to make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society. Whether it’s developing sustainable energy solutions, designing eco-friendly materials, or combating infectious diseases, the principles of chemistry underpin countless endeavours aimed at improving the quality of life for people around the world. Thus, by studying chemistry, individuals not only gain valuable knowledge and skills but also become catalysts for positive change in the world.

Course Key Topics

the AS Level Chemistry course is divided into 10 modules.

Module 1: Atomic Structure & Periodic Table
The course starts with a look at the atom, the building blocks of chemistry. We discover the subatomic particles that make up an atom and look at how mass spectrometry is used to determine molecular masses.

Module 2: Bonding & Structure
This module develops on understanding atomic structure and looks more at molecules and the types of bonding witnessed in different types of molecule. Previous study of ions is developed and we explore radii and other physical properties and the effects these have on the behaviour of atoms and ions.

Module 3: Redox I
This module is concerned with balancing equations and how the concept of oxidation numbers can provide a very efficient tool in this area.

Module 4: Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table
A more detailed look at some of the groups of the periodic table. Discover the elements of group 1 and 2 as well as the halogen gases of group 7. Learn more about these groups and how their physical properties decide their external characteristics.

Module 5: Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance
Discover the concept of the “mole” and meet Avogadro’s constant, as well as calculating reacting masses and volumes and identifying both empirical and molecular formulae.

Module 6: Organic Chemistry
There are three modules relating to organic chemistry; that is, chemistry relating to compounds containing carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. The first of these modules provides an introduction to the discipline and starts to introduce key homologous series, including the alkanes and alkenes. The Second organic module introduces important functional groups including the carbonyls and carboxylic acids and discusses the concept of chirality. The third and final organic chemistry module develops this understanding further and introduces further organic species including the arenes and aromatic rings as well as the nitrogen-containing organic series.

Module 7: Modern Analytical Techniques
The two modules covering modern analytical techniques describe the key, cutting edge methods being employed in chemical analysis. Starting in the first module with Mass spectrometry and IR spectroscopy before, later in the course, expanding on mass spectrometry and then introducing nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and chromatography.

Module 8: Energetics
The Modules on energetics learn to use Hess’s law to calculate otherwise immeasurable energy changes in chemical reactions as well as discovering bon enthalpies, before being introduced to lattice energies and the concept of entropy and how scientists use this idea of “chaos” and “order” to answer important questions about chemical stability.

Module 9: Kinetics
The kinetics modules in the A-Level course show the student how the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution and collision theory are key in the creation of models in chemistry and how they account for the different effects that changing variables can have on the rate of a reaction. The later module in this area explores the effects of catalysts on rates of reaction and introduces the mathematical expressions that describe rates of reaction.

Module 10: Equilibria
In this module, discover the fact that many chemical reactions are completely reversible and the idea of dynamic equilibrium. Students will also learn how changing variables like temperature, concentration or pressure can affect the position of a reaction’s equilibrium. The equilibrium modules continue to look at the maths behind equilibria, introducing Kp and Kc calculations as well as the equilibrium constant.

What Will You Learn?

• In-depth understanding of AS Level Chemistry, covering advanced concepts and theories.
• Development of critical thinking and analytical skills through complex problem-solving.
• Preparation for higher education or entry into the workforce with specialised knowledge.
• Acquisition of practical skills and competencies relevant to chosen career paths or academic pursuits.

Target Audience

• High school students aiming to pursue further education at universities or colleges.
• Individuals seeking to fulfill academic requirements for specific career paths or professions.
• Mature students looking to enhance their qualifications for career advancement or personal development.
• Students interested in acquiring specialised knowledge and skills in particular subjects or disciplines.

• The good news is that no prior learning knowledge or experience is essential to take this course. This course is openly available to anyone wishing to learn more about AS Level Chemistry and would like to take part in a highly rewarding distance learning study course.
• We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and study further, so we try to keep our entry requirements to a minimum.
• You have the freedom to start the course at any time and continue your studies at your own pace for a period of up to 12 months from initial registration with full tutor support.

A Level

Hard copy certificate - £100