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HNC: Applied Sciences

This course develops the students’ knowledge within all of the sciences and their related industrial techniques. The course is designed to allow you to progress onto an HND Applied Biological Sciences. Alternatively, you can progress to university to study a range of science based courses (Biology,Chemistry or Physics) or directly into employment

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Level:

SCQF Level 7

Duration:

  • One year full-time
  • 18 months part-time (day release)
  • Part-time in both campuses 
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Who is this course for?

People interested in a career in Life Sciences

What skills will I learn?

How to work in a professional science lab including quality practices, health & safety and experimental procedures.

What will I study?

All HNC Applied Sciences students study a range of common units to provide foundational skills in biology and chemistry before moving onto more advanced courses in their selected specialisation.


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


  • Laboratory Skills for Science
  • Cell Biology
  • Fundamental Chemistry
  • Maths for Science
  • Animal & Plant Cell Culture
  • Physical or Organic Chemistry


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 Bio-quarter 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.