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EPQ

Level 3 / 1 year Course / Pearson

The EPQ is an academic qualification which allows you to set the direction of research; you decide on your own question; you do the research: you decide whether you blend existing knowledge with new or choose a completely new direction.

More on this course

The EPQ (Dissertation) is an opportunity to pursue a particular area of interest in tremendous depth. It is not constrained by a subject syllabus and past studies have pursued topics as diverse as medical ethics, graffiti as art, the nature vs nurture debate in crime and The Lord of the Rings as a potentially racist text.

The dissertation combines carrying out academic research (including access to Durham University Library), drafting a 5000 word essay, critically assessing your sources, evaluating successes and finally presenting your findings through a presentation to peers. The taught element of the course focuses upon how to research the essay, how to reference the sources, how to write the text and how to report your findings, both in written and verbally. It does not include any attempt to teach students the actual content of their dissertation.

Teaching and learning methods

Students will have weekly sessions to meet their tutor, report progress, assess quality of written work, etc. Students will also be given access to Durham University Library. The core emphasis is on the EPQ as a self-driven programme of study and exploration, and it will suit those with much self-discipline and enthusiasm. The course begins in the latter part of Year 12, once students have established their key subject interests, university choices, and career aspirations. A summer of study is then followed by some months of drafting and submission during Year 13.

Assessment

Assessment is by dissertation and a short presentation in front of peers. Grades as high as A*, which is given 28 UCAS points (exactly half an A* at A Level), can be achieved.

Skills and Careers Insight

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) allows you to develop independent research, critical thinking, and project management skills while exploring a topic of your own interest in depth. You’ll learn to gather and analyse information, solve problems, and present your findings clearly through a written report or practical outcome. These skills are highly valuable in a wide range of careers and further education opportunities, as they demonstrate initiative, creativity, and the ability to work independently. Whether you’re considering university, starting a business, or entering a professional field, the EPQ prepares you for a variety of careers, including research, project management, education, and consulting, by showcasing your ability to tackle complex challenges and think critically.

Subject Combination

The EPQ can be taken alongside any subject at all. We do not allow students to merely repeat work from another subject in the dissertation, but students can extend it into new domains for instance studying Ovid’s Metamorphoses in Classical Civilisation and Shakespeare in English and then applying their new knowledge of Classical Mythology to an in-depth study of Shakespeare’s use of Classical Antiquity. Similarly, students may study Fine Art, and then conduct in depth research into a specific art movement and write their dissertation answering a specific question. Alternatively, students can look at a topic relevant to a career such as ‘end of life care’ for medics.

Business

Classical Civilisation

English Language

English Literature

Sociology

Media Studies

Film Studies

Philosophy

Psychology

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy