A-Level Chemistry AQA 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 holds a prestigious status as a subject, revered by both academic institutions and employers alike. Its inclusion on a CV signals to universities and prospective employers a candidate’s depth of learning and acquisition of a diverse skill set. Beyond merely memorising facts and figures, the study of chemistry demands a multifaceted approach, requiring proficiency in various disciplines such as mathematics, scientific reasoning, written and verbal communication, and practical application. This holistic development of skills not only enhances academic performance but also prepares students for success in diverse career paths.

Universities and employers value the rigorous training provided by chemistry education due to its emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving. The analytical mindset cultivated through the study of chemistry enables students to tackle complex challenges with confidence and creativity. Moreover, the ability to apply scientific principles to real-world scenarios equips individuals with a practical toolkit to address contemporary issues in fields ranging from healthcare and environmental sustainability to technology and industry. As such, a background in chemistry serves as a solid foundation for pursuing advanced studies or entering the workforce with a competitive edge.

The academic rigour of chemistry extends beyond theoretical knowledge to encompass hands-on laboratory experience and experimental design. Through practical work, students gain invaluable insights into scientific methodologies, data analysis, and laboratory techniques. This experiential learning not only reinforces theoretical concepts but also fosters a deeper understanding of the scientific process and cultivates curiosity and innovation. Furthermore, laboratory skills honed in chemistry coursework—such as precision, attention to detail, and safety protocols—transcend disciplinary boundaries, making graduates highly sought after in research, healthcare, and technology sectors.

In addition to its academic merits, chemistry offers a gateway to a diverse array of career opportunities. Graduates with a background in chemistry are well-positioned for roles in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, forensic science, and materials science, among others. Furthermore, the analytical and problem-solving skills instilled by chemistry education are highly transferable, opening doors to careers in finance, consulting, and data analysis. Whether pursuing further studies or entering the workforce directly, a solid grounding in chemistry empowers individuals to make meaningful contributions to society and navigate the complexities of the modern world.

A Level

Hard copy certificate - Included

Course Key Topics

the A-Level Chemistry course is divided into 6 modules.

Module 1: Physical chemistry

• Atomic structure
• Amount of substance
• Bonding
• Energetics
• Kinetics
• Chemical equilibria, Le Chatelier’s principle and Kc
• Oxidation, reduction and redox equations

The opening module begins by looking at the atom, the building blocks of chemistry and considers how the atom is made up and how this impacts the chemistry of the molecules they form. We then look at concentrations of solutions and the concept of the ‘mole’ as an amount of substance. The module continues on to look at how atoms bind together using different types of bonding to form molecules and how the type of bonding influences the properties of a given compound. Energetics covers the energy transfers involved in chemical reactions and we investigate the requirements for a chemical reaction to successfully occur. The kinetics topic 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 before the module finishes off by looking at equilibrium reactions can go in both directions and investigates ways in which we can control the reaction, and finally, redox reactions, types of reactions that involve the loss and gain of electrons.

Module 2: Inorganic chemistry

• Periodicity
• Group 2, the alkaline earth metals
• Group 7(17), the halogens

Module 2 concentrates on the chemistry of inorganic compounds (those not generally involved in living things and do not contain the element, carbon). In this module, we look at the periodic table and some of the key families of elements within it.

Module 3: Organic chemistry

• Introduction to organic chemistry
• Alkanes
• Halogenoalkanes
• Alkenes
• Alcohols
• Organic analysis

Module 3 introduces the organic compounds all of which share in common the elements carbon, hydrogen and often oxygen or nitrogen. The module opens by introducing some common ideas in organic chemistry including how to name an organic compound based on its constituent elements and the coordination of these elements within the molecule. We then look at four particular groups of organic compounds, before discovering ways in which we can analyse organic compounds to identify them.

Module 4: Physical chemistry

• Thermodynamics
• Rate equations
• Equilibrium constant Kp for homogeneous systems
• Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells
• Acids and bases

Module 4 builds on the AS module 1, exploring in greater depth the path of energy through chemical reactions. We also build on our understanding of the requirements for a reaction and start to calculate and measure the actual rate of a given reaction and the precise position of equilibrium reactions. The module introduces the idea of electrode potentials as a way of observing the movement of electrons in redox reactions.

Module 5: Inorganic chemistry

• Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides
• Transition metals
• Reactions of ions in aqueous solution

Module 5 introduces further inorganic chemistry and looks at the behaviour of two further groups of the periodic table including the intriguing chemistry of the transition metals. The module also looks at how ions dissolved in water behave and how reactions can occur within an aqueous solution.

Module 6: Organic chemistry

• Optical isomerism
• Aldehydes and ketones
• Carboxylic acids and derivatives
• Aromatic chemistry
• Amines
• Polymers
• Amino acids, proteins and DNA
• Organic synthesis
• Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
• Chromatography

Module 6 expands on the learner’s understanding of organic chemistry gained in the first year of the course. Five new organic families are introduced and we also look at how organic molecules can be synthesised within the laboratory environment as well as how organic molecules relate to biological molecules such as DNA and proteins. We expand on organic analysis techniques and consider two new types of technique that can be used to identify organic compound.

What Will You Learn?

• In-depth understanding of A-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 A-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.