Applied Biology - Higher National Certificate (HNC)

• About the Course

  You will learn by completing projects and assignments based on realistic situations, activities and demands. You will focus on a particular area and develop a range of specialist skills and knowledge.

  The course is made up of mandatory units and optional specialist units.

  You will study:

  Mandatory units:

  • Cell biology
  • Biochemistry of macromolecules and metabolic pathways
  • Physiology of cellular systems in animals
  • Laboratory techniques for applied biology
  • Analysis of scientific data and information

  Specialist units:

  • Neurophysiology and homeostatic control of the human body
  • Molecular biology and genetics
  • The immune response system
  • Infectious diseases
  • Medical microbiology
  • Human health and nutrition
  • Food molecules, additives and their roles 
  • Ecological principles and their application
  • Chemistry for the applied biologist
  • Biodiversity, conservation and threats
  • Plant physiology and environmental adaptation
  • Work-based experience
  • Personal and professional development
  • Employability skills.

  Course Fee: £5000

• Additional Costs

  Additional Fees

  £100 (approx) for trips and visits

• Entry Requirements

  You should have at least one of the following meeting a minimum of 120 UCAS points:

  • BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Applied Science or a related discipline
  • Access to Science
  • At least two A Levels in science subjects.

  Applicants are also expected to have a good level of literacy and numeracy; a relevant Level 2 qualification (eg GCSE English and maths at grade C / grade 5 or above) is desirable.

  If you need advice before you apply, please call 020 8326 2020 or email info@west-thames.ac.uk.

• Progression

  Progress to the Higher National Diploma in Applied Biology or the second year of a degree course at university, such as BSc in Biomedical Science or Biology or find employment in biological sciences.

• Assessment Method

  The course is internally assessed by means of assignments which are graded, and you will also receive an overall grade for the qualification.

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