Learn more about the Extended Project Qualification at St Catherine’s
Helen Whateley, alumna 2006, IID Architects
stcatherines.info
WHAT IS THE EPQ?
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a Level 3 qualification, equivalent to half an A Level and worth up to 28 UCAS points. It allows students to choose a topic they’re passionate about, conduct independent research, and produce either: •
A 5,000-word report, or
•
A creative artefact (e.g., architectural drawing, design, computer game) with a shorter report.
Students will follow a taught programme which covers skills including writing a focused research question, time management, finding and evaluating sources and carrying out primary research in an ethical manner. These skills will enable students to produce a well-structured, academically rigorous essay or a research-backed artefact within the set timeframe.
BENEFITS OF THE EPQ SKILL DEVELOPMENT •
•
•
Research & Writing Skills: You will learn how to conduct academic research and write a 5,000 word essay or create an artefact with a supporting report. You will also be taught how to reference your resources correctly.
PERSONAL GROWTH •
Time Management: Juggling an EPQ alongside A Levels teaches you how to plan, prioritise, and stay organised.
•
Presentation Practice: You will present your findings to a small group, which builds confidence and communication skills.
•
Explore Your Passion: You can choose any topic that excites you - from ethical debates to designing and building a robot, coding a computer game, or crocheting a blanket to represent the novels of the Brontë sisters. University Prep: It is a great rehearsal for the kind of independent study you will complete at university. Sense of Ownership: You are in charge of the whole project, which can be incredibly rewarding if you pick something meaningful to you.
ACADEMIC & UNIVERSITY ADVANTAGES •
UCAS Points Boost: An EPQ is worth up to 28 UCAS points, which is half an A Level.
•
Lower Entry Requirements: Some universities may offer reduced grade requirements if you achieve a high EPQ grade, although it’s best to check with your chosen institutions.
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Personal Statement Power: It makes your UCAS application stand out by showing initiative, passion, and independent learning and you can talk about your research and findings if called to interview.
TITLE IDEAS •
With a focus on three separate case studies, is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights still appropriate and relevant for the world today?
•
Assess whether governance is the most important factor that causes urbanisation to result in economic growth in Shanghai, China, and Kinshasa, DRC.
UNIVERSITIES THAT OFFER LOWER GRADES FOR EPQ STUDENTS BATH
LANCASTER
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Can physical and mental exercise be effective in preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease?
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A critical analysis of the diagnosis and treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity.
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Assess the causes of Brexit.
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What evidence is there for curved spacetime?
SHEFFIELD
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Drawing a fractal in order to explore the combination of a dragon curve and Apollonian gaskets.
BRISTOL
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Build a bipedal robot.
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Produce a short, self-illustrated cookbook.
LIVERPOOL
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Design and make a multimedia blanket inspired by the landscapes in the novels of the Brontë sisters.
SOUTHAMPTON
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Investigation of AI challenges in ophthalmology, radiology, and pathology with ethical considerations.
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Design, reconstruct, and play the Hounds and Jackals game – blending historical research with creative design and hands-on construction.
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Write a three-segment story set in the 19th century about Jack the Ripper, influenced by Arthur Miller’s The Crucible.
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Can an economy thrive under a dictatorship?
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Investigate social media’s role in rising misogyny among younger western men since 2000.
READING BIRMINGHAM LEEDS
UWE
CARDIFF NOTTINGHAM YORK EXETER QUEEN MARY, LONDON
THE ST CATHERINE’S DIFFERENCE GEORGINA
Now more than ever, self-belief and confidence are key to unlocking everything you are capable of - not only for yourself, but for the difference you’ll make in the world. In and beyond the classroom, we create opportunities, leaderships paths, and support that build your strength and confidence.
With deep belief in yourself and steady foundations, you can achieve at every level of life. Our guiding principle? There is nothing a woman cannot achieve.
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