Key Information
- Course Title: Applied Sciences (Biology)
- Award: Higher National Certificate (HNC)
- Level: 4
- Awarding Body: Pearson
- UCAS Code: C100
- Start Dates: September, January, and April
- Study Mode: Full-time (1 year)
- Fees: £6,355
- Delivery: Weekdays, weekends or evenings
Course Overview
The Pearson Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Sciences (Biology) is designed to give you a practical, applied approach to furthering your education in the sciences.
Pearson Higher Nationals provide a comprehensive study of the Applied Sciences sector, equipping you with the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to pursue or advance a career in biology or related fields. In addition to core scientific principles, the programme offers insight into the sector’s breadth and depth, preparing students for further study or professional training.
The key objectives of the Pearson Higher Nationals in Applied Sciences are:
- To equip you with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary to excel in the global Applied Sciences environment.
- To provide opportunities to explore contemporary Applied Science issues, with a focus on environmental sustainability, food and nutrition, and polymer recyclability.
- To enable you to enter or progress in employment within the Applied Sciences sector or advance to higher education qualifications, such as an Honours degree in Biology, Environmental Sciences, or related areas.
Teaching
Our teaching approach is varied, interactive, and engaging. You will participate in on-campus and live online lectures, tutorials, and academic support sessions, supported by extensive online resources including lecture notes, recordings, presentations, and handouts. Access to both our on-campus and digital libraries ensures you have the materials needed for success.
Independent learning is a vital component of your studies. You will engage in research, review academic journals and books.
Assessment
Assessment is primarily through practical coursework, reflecting real-world tasks. Assignments may be individual or collaborative and include essays, reports, projects, research and consultancy projects, presentations, and the design of digital materials. This approach ensures you develop both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that employers value.
Modules
- Anatomy and Human Physiology
- Cell Biology
- Fundamentals of Biochemistry
- Fundamentals of Chemistry
- Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques
- Personal and Professional Development for Scientists
- Regulation and Quality in the Applied Sciences (Pearson-set)
- Scientific Data Handling Approaches and Techniques
Careers
The Pearson Higher National Certificate is an internationally recognised qualification thatsupports career progression and professional development in the Applied Sciences. It also provides a clear pathway to further study, including a Higher National Diploma (HND) or a Bachelor’s degree.
This course equips you for a wide range of careers in the Applied Sciences, including roles such as Laboratory Technician, Research Technician, Technical Support Chemist/Biologist, Quality Support Technician, Manufacturing Technician, Science Technician, Technologist, Instrumentation Technician, and Product Development Technician.
Entry and Visa Requirements
Entry Requirements
You should hold at least one of the following:
- BTEC Level 3 qualification
- A-Level(s) with strong results in a relevant subject
- Access to Higher Education Diploma from a recognised institution
- Foundation Diploma
- UK or International equivalent of any of the above.
Additional Requirements
You should also hold at least one of the following:
- Five GCSEs at grade C / 4 or above, including Maths and English Language or equivalent
- Functional Skills Level 2 (Maths and English)
- IELTS 5.5 or CEFR B2 (or equivalent).
If You Don’t Meet the Entry Requirements
You may still be considered for entry if you can demonstrate strong communication and learning skills, relevant knowledge, work experience, and motivation to succeed – supported by a minimum of one year UK work experience relevant to the course applied for.
If you do not hold GCSE Maths and English (or an equivalent qualification), you will be required to complete an English and/or Maths test as part of the entry process.
Immigration / Visa Requirements
You must hold one of the following:
- UK or Irish citizenship
- EU Settled or Pre-Settled Status
- Non-EU passport with ILR, LLR, or DLR
- Valid work visa (additional residency and immigration requirements apply)
- Refugee status, or be the child or spouse of someone with refugee status
- Humanitarian Protection.
Other exceptional circumstances may apply. Please contact us for further details.