Foundation Degree in Applied Science (Bioscience) with Cert HE Exit Award

Level 5

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Foundation Degree in Applied Science (Bioscience) with Cert HE Exit Award

Level 5

Full-Time

25/26

EXC50027

Overview

This programme replaces the Ulster University Level 5 Foundation Degree (FdSc) Applied and Medical Sciences.

It aims to provide a vocationally relevant science education for those wishing to follow careers in a wide range of science disciplines; producing competent individuals to meet local, regional and national needs by providing a good mix of scientific theory along with the practical skills necessary for further study or employment within a range of science disciplines.

Through a varied and well-planned curriculum delivered by knowledgeable and supportive staff, knowledge and understanding is developed through lectures, practical classes, group discussion and independent research. Cognitive skills are developed through researching information, statistical analysis, effective communication, critical analysis, evaluation and self-evaluation.

The course is designed to be practical, and therefore applied skills are developed through practical laboratory classes and laboratory simulations. Transferable skills are crucial to your progression and employability. This course aims to develop these skills through presentations, scientific writing, analysis and interpretation of results, group work, problem solving, research and critical evaluation; all of which will enhance personal development and career prospects.

The course will be delivered over 4 semesters which is equivalent to 2 years of study.

The Course Modules in Year 1 are: Academic Skills & Statistics; Chemistry and Biology for Bioscience; Chemistry and Pharmacology; Developing Skills for Industry – Laboratory Skills; Professional Practice and GxP; Physiology and Anatomy.

Course Modules in Year 2 are: Biochemistry; Cell Biology, Genetics & Molecular Biology; Microbiology & Immunology; Analytical Methodologies. You will also take two modules of Work Based Learning (WBL1&2) in year 2, which will consist of a total of 320 hours of placement – a great opportunity to boost your CV.

: Academic Skills & Statistics

Chemistry and Biology for Bioscience

Chemistry and Pharmacology

Developing Skills for Industry – Laboratory Skills

Professional Practice and GxP

Physiology and Anatomy

Biochemistry

Work Based Learning (WBL1&2)

Cell Biology, Genetics & Molecular Biology

Microbiology & Immunology

Analytical Methodologies

UK: Applicants must have attained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of:

A levels (at least one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Health & Life Sciences or equivalent),
National Awards (in a science related subject) or a
Pass in Access Diploma with an approved science module at 55% or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.
Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (eg. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications.
In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language (or equivalent) and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) may be considered for entry.

For more details visit www.swc.ac.uk/courses

Please note, all applicants to the programme will be required to attend an interview.

RoI: 48 UCAS points consisting of passes in five approved subjects to include a minimum of:

3 at Higher Leaving Cert Pass (Grade D/H6), one of which should be in Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths or equivalent) and
OLC (Grade 04 or above) to include Maths and English.

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) may be considered for entry. For more details visit www.nwrc.ac.uk/apply. Please note, all applicants to the programme will be required to attend an interview.

Course International Entry Requirements:

International students must meet the general entrance requirements for admission to any College First Degree, Honours Degree Top-up, Foundation Degree or Higher National Diploma.

International students (for whom English is not their first language), must demonstrate their competence in written and spoken English at IELTS – Academic 6.0, with minimum 5.5 in all four elements of the test. Trinity ISE - Pass at Level 3 also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Assessment: Lectures will be delivered face to face and you will be supported through hybrid learning. You will be assessed through class tests, oral presentations, individual and collaborative coursework assignments and examinations. A virtual learning environment will be used to support learning and all aspects of assessment. Assessment of Work Based Learning elements will also occur during the course.

Students from this course can progress to a range of related degree programmes at Ulster University such as Year 3 of BSc (Hons) Biology, Year 2 of: MSci Pharmaceutical Biosciences; BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (DPP) (Pathology); BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (DPP (Industry); BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (FT & PT); BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition and BSc (Hons) Food & Nutrition; or can enter Year 1 of a wide range of degree courses. Progression to other Universities at various points of entry may also be possible.

Potential Career Opportunities: After completing this programme, you may also explore employment opportunities in this field which could include; Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Analyst, Biotechnology Technician, Research Assistant, Environmental Health & Safety, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Pharmacy Technician, Dietetic Assistant, Cardiology Technician, Audiology Technician, and Assistant Grade Professionals.

Note: It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s admission and progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

This Foundation Degree covers analytical and biomedical sciences with an emphasis on practical and experimental skills. Graduates of this programme will be well placed to gain employment in analytical laboratories and in biomedical sectors or to continue their studies in associated subjects.

Fees are payable annually.

The course will be delivered over 4 semesters which is equivalent to 2 years of study.

2025/26 fees:

£2,800 (payable for each year)

For 2025/26 fees, please refer to our Fees and Charges Policy on the College website.

During your course you should budget for incidental expenditure e.g. costs of purchasing your own text books, additional costs for printing and photocopying (above the free allowance provided to all students). This figure may be in the region of £100 or more per year.

1 Available Session

* The fees quoted are per annum and are payable for each year of the course’s duration and are subject to additional examination fees as per fees policy.