SC

Science

Build strong foundations in physics, chemistry, and biology through theory and laboratory work. This science-focused programme prepares you for careers in healthcare, laboratory technology, and engineering, with clear pathways to medicine, nursing, engineering, and scientific research programmes at university level.

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Programme Overview
The General Science programme is a three-year senior high school curriculum offering integrated study of physics, chemistry, and biology. Offered under the WASSCE framework, this programme provides a broad foundation in natural sciences and prepares students for careers in laboratory work, healthcare support, scientific technician roles, and progression to tertiary studies in science, engineering, medicine, and related disciplines. It balances theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience.

Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
  • Develop competence in scientific inquiry, experimentation, and data analysis
  • Provide foundational knowledge in physics, chemistry, and biology
  • Build practical laboratory skills and safe handling of scientific equipment
  • Foster scientific thinking, problem-solving, and critical reasoning
  • Prepare students for WASSCE examination success and further science studies
  • Promote understanding of scientific applications in daily life and technology
  • Equip students with technical skills for immediate employment in science-related sectors
  • Enable progression to tertiary-level studies in Medicine, Engineering, Environmental Science, and pure sciences
  • Cultivate awareness of environmental sustainability and scientific ethics

Practical Learning Components
The programme integrates extensive practical experience through:
  • Laboratory experiments and investigations in physics, chemistry, and biology
  • Microscopy and specimen observation
  • Chemical reactions and synthesis practicals
  • Electrical circuit construction and testing
  • Mechanics experiments (forces, motion, energy)
  • Biological dissections and anatomical studies
  • Soil and water quality testing
  • Microorganism culturing and identification
  • Heat and temperature investigations
  • Optical experiments (refraction, reflection, lenses)
  • Safety training and laboratory protocol adherence
  • Data collection, analysis, and report writing
  • Scientific poster and presentation preparation
  • Field trips to natural habitats, research institutions, and industries
  • Internships in hospitals, laboratories, research centers, and manufacturing facilities
  • Science fair and competition participation

Career Pathways and Opportunities
Immediate Post-Secondary:
  • Laboratory Technician (clinical, pharmaceutical, or research)
  • Quality Control Technician
  • Environmental Health Officer
  • Hospital Support Worker or Phlebotomist
  • Pharmaceutical Technician
  • Industrial Safety Officer
  • Water Quality Technician
  • Scientific Instrument Operator
  • Maintenance Technician (technical equipment)
Tertiary Education Routes:
  • Bachelor's degree in Medicine, Nursing, or Health Sciences
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (all branches)
  • Bachelor's degree in Pure Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or Geology
  • Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Tertiary diplomas in Laboratory Technology, Nursing, or Environmental Health
  • Teacher training programmes in Science subjects
Professional Sectors:
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  • Pharmaceutical and chemical companies
  • Mining and petroleum industries
  • Environmental protection agencies
  • Research institutions and universities
  • Quality assurance and testing laboratories
  • Engineering and construction firms
  • Food and beverage processing industries
  • Water and sanitation authorities
  • Manufacturing and industrial facilities
  • Scientific equipment and instrumentation companies
  • Government research and development centers

Entry Requirements
  • Completion of Junior High School (JHS) with satisfactory performance
  • Strong performance in Science and Mathematics at the JHS level
  • Interest in scientific inquiry and laboratory work
  • Aptitude for problem-solving and analytical thinking
  • Physical ability and attention to safety protocols

Assessment and Certification
Students sit for WASSCE examinations at the end of the three-year programme in their chosen subjects. Practical components are assessed through laboratory examinations, practical reports, and continuous assessment. WASSCE passes in General Science subjects are widely recognized for entry into medical, engineering, and pure science tertiary programmes, as well as employment in scientific and technical sectors.

Core subjects

  • English Language
  • Social Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Physical Education (Core) - Not externally examinable

Subject combinations

  • Option 1

    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Physics
    • Additional Mathematics
    • Computing
    • Economics

  • Option 2

    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Physics
    • Physical Education & Health
    • Agriculture

  • Option 3

    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Physics
    • Additional Mathematics/Agriculture
    • ICT