EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an exciting independent course worth 50% of an A Level. The EPQ is different to other courses because it enables you to undertake independently led research in a topic you find interesting. So, if you have ever had a secret passion to study Himalayan mountain sheep, the philosophy of Satre, or another topic that is not covered by your A Levels, then this is the course for you.
“Working on an EPQ encourages students to develop research and academic skills relevant to undergraduate study”
University of Oxford
“Students could use their project at the interview stage and/or in their UCAS personal statement.”
University of Southampton
Sixth Form (Year 12-13)
Examination Board: EDEXCEL
Course Description
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a Level 3 qualification that is graded in the same way as an A Level and is worth slightly more UCAS points than an AS. It is available to all Year 12 students. Students complete it by themselves – it is not a taught qualification.
The EPQ allows you to develop a variety of skills:
- become a critical, reflective and independent learner.
- develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills
- increase your research, analysis, evaluation and presentation skills
- demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise
Students can choose what to study – something that interests them and that they are genuinely curious about. It might relate to a subject a student is studying, something they want to do at University, or a general area of interest.
There are four main types of EPQ:
- Dissertation (research question)
- Investigation/Field Study – usually in science (research question/hypothesis)
- Performance (performance topic and title)
- Artefact (solution to a design brief)
The majority of students complete a dissertation, which is an extended essay using mainly secondary sources (such as books and articles) and, in some cases, primary research (such as questionnaires and surveys). If a student is interested in conducting experiments, delivering a performance, or creating a product, then the investigation, performance and artefact EPQs are available. All EPQs have a written element that follows broadly the same structure.
Students must be able to define their project and motivate themselves to continue with it. Once students have decided upon a topic, they will research and make connections between the sources, opinions and facts to reach their own conclusions. It is an independent piece of work and a considerable academic achievement. It can help students to bridge the gap to university and the world of work beyond.
As part of the EPQ programme you will be supported by experienced staff and will take part in a series of skills workshops on how to research and present an EPQ. You will also be offered advice on further useful EPQ support guides and materials. All students will be assigned a staff mentor to specifically provide guidance with their chosen project.
Assessment
For your EPQ, you will research a subject of your own choosing, which you will then develop into either a 5,000 word report, an artefact or a performance. Alongside your research, you will document your progress in a production log.
EPQs are submitted in the summer term of Year 12 and the final part of the qualification is the aural presentation that takes place in October of Year 13. This consists of the EPQ exhibition, where students showcase their work by preparing a stall and giving a brief presentation to attendees. Grades A*-E will be awarded.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 5 or above. An EPQ can be taken alongside 3 A Levels.
