Course Outline
This 'AS' course is a means of broadening the curriculum for those whose interests lie mainly in the arts and humanities or giving those who study science an opportunity to reflect on their specialist interests in a broader context.  The course concerns itself with the issues involved in topical and often controversial scientific subjects appearing in the news.  The accent is placed on understanding and forming a personal opinion rather than on formula and detailed scientific knowledge.  Students study a series of topical issues and episodes from the history of science.  In each topic, students learn to apply their understanding of scientific explanations and reflect on the way science itself works, and how it impacts on society.

Career Prospects
The course is useful for many careers such as journalism and law.  Nuclear accidents, such as that at Chernobyl are widely reported in newspapers and on the television and so journalists need some knowledge of science to help report it.  Disputes over pollution or alleged harmful side effect from drugs often end up in court for settlement of damages and so prospective lawyers are helped with some scientific background.  Many other careers can benefit from the scientific background gleaned from this course.