EXAM BOARD 

EDEXCEL 

STRUCTURE OF COURSE 

This programme is to be completed in Year 12. 

Autumn Term: skills acquisition/project proposals/initial research 

Spring Term: research and writing 

April: Submission and oral presentation. 

ASSESSMENT 

In most cases this will be a dissertation. There is an oral presentation which is assessed just before submission of the final piece. The final written dissertation is submitted around Easter. 

CONTENT 

This type of Edexcel Project is a university-style dissertation on any topic which can be researched and argued about, for example, a controversial biological, historical, ethical, philosophical, psychological, economic or environmental issue. The dissertation uses secondary research sources to provide a reasoned defence of a point of view, with consideration of counter-arguments. 

The Extended Project is self-directed and students need to choose a topic area and define a question independently. 

Feedback from universities: 

Cambridge: "We welcome the introduction of the Extended Project and would encourage you to undertake one as it will help you develop independent study and research skills and ease the transition from school/college to higher education." 

‘UCL welcomes the introduction of the Extended Project into the curriculum, recognising that it will develop many of the skills necessary for successful study at university.’ 

POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS 

The EPQ supports movement into virtually any career path, but might be especially beneficial for Journalism, Law, Medicine/Health related professions, Research, Policy Development, Social Work, Education, Psychology, Architecture 

POSSIBLE SUBJECT COMBINATIONS 

Universities like to see an Extended Project that links well with a chosen degree course. Where possible, you are advised to choose a topic/question that combines well with either your future career plans or area of future study.