HNC Applied Sciences

The HNC Applied Sciences is a wide-ranging course, covering the theoretical and practical aspects of modern sciences. You will study ecology, environmental issues, and the core sciences; develop your laboratory skills; and improve your research and writing skills.

You will learn various sciences, such as Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Environmental disciplines. You are developing scientific theoretical knowledge and scientific communication and presentation skills. The Graded Unit allows you to conduct specialized research on a topic that will hone your scientific knowledge in your chosen field for progression. 

The course includes a large amount of training in essential practical skills within the laboratory that are relevant to local and national employers. You will acquire knowledge of Health and Safety Systems and Good Laboratory Practice, developing skills of experimentation, analysis, and reporting in practical sessions, highly transferrable skills to employment and further study. Be prepared to spend plenty of hands-on time in the lab, conducting experiments and processing your results in the Laboratory Skills unit. 

Basic skills in Maths and Statistics are covered to enhance scientific analysis of experimental and field data. 

The ethical and environmental issues raised by these units will be discussed in the Environmental Awareness unit. 

Where possible, you will be invited to on-site visits to local science industries and allowed to appreciate and understand the key issues and problems the industry encounters, all valuable experience for entering the science industry.

Special features

• You can study full-time or part-time to suit your personal and professional circumstances

• Lectures and laboratory sessions are all conducted face-to-face on campus

• You will undertake practical science skills training in a laboratory environment

• 1 Scottish Higher at grade C or above OR

• 1 A level at grade D or above

• The Higher or A level should be in a science-related subject, preferably Biology, Chemistry or Physics. You should also have a minimum credit level Standard Grade or National 5 Chemistry, Biology, Physics or equivalent OR

• NC or NQ in a Science subject such as NQ Access to Science or NC Applied Science

• Alternatively, completion of a Foundation Apprenticeship Food and Drink Technologies, plus a Scottish Higher in Science and National 5 Chemistry or Biology (or equivalent) OR

• Foundation Apprenticeship Scientific Technologies (Laboratory Skills) plus National 5 Chemistry or Biology (or equivalent)

• Prospective students without the standard entry requirements as listed above are encouraged to apply, relevant work experience will be taken into consideration

• You may be required to attend an interview

20 hours work permit for international students