What's On The Course?
The course applies basic electronic principles and a system approach in order to lift the lid on many modern electronics systems encountered in everyday life. It reflects on up-to-date practice, encourages a safe approach to using electronic systems, and promotes an awareness of the social, economic and cultural impact of electronics.AS MODULES
- Module1 - Introductory Electronics: System synthesis, Voltage, current, resistance, power, Diodes, Resistive input transducers, Transistors and MOSFETs, Output devices, Operational Amplifiers (op-amps), Logic gates and Boolean algebra, Design and simplification of combinational logic systems.
- Module 2 - Further Electronics: Capacitors, Dc RC networks, Timing subsystems, Sequential logic subsystems, Counter systems, Amplifier subsystems, Power amplifier systems.
- Module 3 - Practical system development: Project and report, to design and construct a single artefact to satisfy an initial design problem of your choice. This will be carried out alongside modules 1 and 2.
Why study Electronics?
- Module 4 - Programmable Control Systems: Control systems, Microprocessor subsystems, Programming, Input subsystems, Output subsystems, Interfacing subsystems, Robotic systems.
- Module 5 - Communication systems: General principles, Audio systems, Radio communication-General principles, Radio receivers, Digital communication, Mobile communication, Optoelectronics.
- Module 6 - Practical system synthesis: Design, construct and assess an electronics system to solve a problem focused on the work of modules 4 and 5. You will be required to provide a full evaluation of your system.
Electronics is a fun and exciting way of discovering how things work. Electronics is the future, it's found in all industries and found all around you everywhere, from mobile phones and games consoles to household appliances and industrial control systems. Here in the electronics department at South Cheshire College we have highly qualified, industry-experienced teaching and technical support staff. They will help you to develop and maintain an interest in and an enjoyment of electronics and its applications through practical investigation and problem solving using industry level equipment.What the students say
"I enjoy the practical elements of the course because it is not just about theory and you get involved with different electronics projects throughout the course. I never had the opportunity to do this subject at school but I'm glad I chose it at college. I'd like to do something in the world of engineering as a future career." - Ben Jones, Ruskin Sports College.Pass Rates
In 2011 the pass rate for A2 Electronics was 100% with 67% of students achieving grades A*-C.
In 2010 the pass rate for A2 Electronics was 100% with 75% of students achieving grades A*-C.
Please note that progression to the A2 level of this subject will depend upon there being a viable class size.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This A-Level could be for you if you enjoy a high practical content in your studies and like discovering how electronic gadgets work. AS and A-Levels are in depth courses specifically designed for students with good study skills and an enthusiasm for their chosen subject. They are for people who wish to progress to university of go into full time employment.
What Are The Entry Requirements?
The Academic Advanced Programme (4AS-Levels) minimum entry requirement is five GCSEs (2Bs, 3Cs) including English Language/Literature and Maths.
The Advance Dual Programme (3 AS-Levels + 1 BTEC L3 Certificate) minimum entry requirement is five GCSEs at grades A*-C, including a C in English Language/Literature and D in Maths (to be re-sat in your first year).
For Electronics A-Level you will need to have a grade B in Physics GCSE or grade BB in Core and Additional Science.
What Other Subjects Can I Study With This Course?
The logical options for students taking electronics are Maths and Physics, but many students combine this subject with music technology, media studies or art.
What Can I Do Next?
An A-Level in Electronics is valuable for anyone wishing to study Electronics, Physics or Engineering at a higher level, and opens the doors to careers in areas like aerospace, automotive, audio, medical instrumentation, computer maintenance, communications and robotics.
What If I Need Support?
The College provides a range of learning support for students who would like extra help with their studies. If you need help in deciding what to study or information on travel, finance, childcare, personal or health concerns, contact the Information Centre
How Do I Apply?