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HND: Applied Biological Sciences

This advanced course provides students with opportunities to move directly into employment within Scotland’s science industries or to progress to further study at university. You will gain a thorough understanding of the principles of science combined with practical laboratory work and a laboratory-based project, which are essential when entering employment.

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Level:

SCQF Level 8

Duration:

  • One year full-time (after successful completion of HNC: Applied Sciences)
  • Two years part-time (day release)
  • Part-Time 
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Who is this course for?

People interested in a career in Life Sciences

What skills will I learn?

During this course you work with a range of industry standard equipment to develop skills in:
  • Analysing DNA
  • Plan and collect samples for testing
  • Using Gas Chromatography
  • Fermenting cells
In additional you will work with specialist computer software, improved your statistical analysis skills and develop your leadership and project management capability.

What will I study?

You will develop both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to progress your career in science. Subjects include:


  • Plant and Human Biology
  • Instrumental Techniques
  • DNA Analysis
  • Biomedical Science

You will have access to excellent laboratory spaces to build your skills in working in a laboratory environment. The course also develops your skills in communication, group work and ICT.

Application Information

What further study options are available?

  • We offer a range of articulation routes to university from this course. You can study courses such as Genetics, Immunology, Pharmacology, Fitness & Nutrition and many more.

What career opportunities are there?

  • The Scottish Life Sciences Strategy states that ‘the Life Sciences industry in Scotland is recognised by both UK and Scottish Governments as one with high growth potential and the capacity to contribute significantly to the nation’s productivity. Scotland hosts the UK’s second largest Life Sciences cluster and one of the most sizeable in Europe meaning that students with science backgrounds area ideally placed to take advantage of job opportunities in high tech and fast growing sectors.

  • You can progress to careers such working in the NHS or in big Pharmaceutical companies developing new medicines. Those interested in research might work one of the many small companies in the Edinburgh Bioquarter or you might consider the emerging Tayside Life Sciences Cluster.

  • If you are interested in the environment this course can take you into careers in environmental or climate science.