Course summary

This one-year, full-time Higher National Certificate in Applied Sciences (Biology) provides students with practical laboratory skills and theoretical knowledge required for employment or further study in different science-related contexts. Links with industrial laboratories facilitate industry-related briefs and real scenarios that provide an opportunity for students to acquire professional work ethics, time planning skills and working within a professional science team. A variety of teaching methods are employed for the delivery of the course units. These include, tutorials, group work, research and presentations, practical experiments, visits, and ecological surveys. The different methods employed have been devised to promote students’ academic development and confidence as scientists. This is achieved through the development of not only practical and technical skills, but also through the development of mathematical, analytical, critical thinking and evaluative skills. On completion of this qualification, students may choose to continue their studies through the Higher National Diploma Applied Sciences (Biology) or progress their careers in the industry.