Applied Science – Animal Biology and Physiology: HNC

A close-up shot of two colourful biology textbooks on a lab bench, one featuring a butterfly and the other a frog, with science taps in the background—ready for a lesson in nature

Qualification

HNC

Study Mode

Full Time, Part Time

Duration

1 Year - 2-3 Days p/w

Start date

Aug 2026

Campus

Springburn

Applications open January 2026

Course overview

Explore the science of life — from the microscopic to the anatomical — and prepare for a degree in Animal Biology or Physiology.

This HNC Applied Science (Animal Biology & Physiology) is ideal for learners with an interest in the biological and life sciences who want to progress to university or work in health, environmental, or research settings.

You’ll study key areas including Cell Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, developing a strong understanding of how living systems function — from molecules to organisms. The course blends theory and hands-on laboratory work, giving you practical experience of scientific techniques used in research, healthcare, and industry.

You’ll also complete a Graded Unit 1 project on a topic related to your chosen area of interest, helping you strengthen research, analysis, and report-writing skills for higher study.

This one-year programme covers 15 credits from the HNC Applied Science framework and is taught in a supportive, interactive environment that encourages collaboration and curiosity.

Many learners progress directly into Year 2 of university science degrees such as Zoology, Marine Biology, Biomedical Science, or Physiology — or move straight into employment within the life sciences sector.

This course is ideal for:

Learners who’ve completed NQ Applied Science (Level 6) or equivalent.
Adults returning to education with an interest in biology, physiology, or animal science.
Students aiming for degree-level study in life sciences or healthcare-related fields.
Anyone who enjoys hands-on practical science and wants to understand how the body and environment work together.

What you will learn

You’ll build a solid grounding across biological and chemical sciences, with units including:

Cell Biology – understanding cellular structure, genetics, and biological processes.
Anatomy & Physiology – exploring the human and animal body systems in detail.
Microbiology – studying microorganisms and their role in health, environment, and disease.
Chemistry & Biochemistry – examining molecules, reactions, and metabolic pathways.
Mathematics & Statistics – developing analytical and problem-solving skills for scientific data.
Dissertation & Graded Unit – carrying out a research project on a chosen area of interest.

You’ll also learn to use advanced scientific equipment and gain experience in data recording, analysis, and report writing — essential for both university and professional laboratory work.

Yalena, an HNC Applied Science student at Glasgow Kelvin College, speaking during a student Q&A session while seated on a black sofa with bunting in the background.

After moving from England and finding school wasn’t the right path to university, Yalena took the opportunity to join our Applied Sciences Course at Kelvin.

Now Yalena is preparing for her next step - studying Nursing at the University of Glasgow!

Well done Yalena, we can’t wait to see what you achieve next! 👏

View on YouTube

Entry requirements

✅ Minimum of one Higher at grade C or above in Biology, Human Biology, or Chemistry. AND

✅ National 5 (or equivalent) qualifications in Maths, Chemistry, Biology, and English. OR

✅ Successful completion of NQ Applied Science (Level 6) will also meet the entry criteria.

✅ Relevant experience may also be considered for applicants who do not meet the formal entry qualifications.

Entry is competitive, based on your application and personal statement.

Personal Statement Guidance

Your personal statement should:

Explain why you want to study Animal Biology and Physiology.
Describe any school, work, or volunteering experience related to science, health, or the environment.
Highlight your skills — curiosity, organisation, problem-solving, teamwork, and determination.
Show that you understand the commitment required for a full-time HNC programme.

When you start the course, your academic skills will be reviewed to ensure you’re on the correct pathway. If extra support is needed, staff may adjust your route to maximise your success.

ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language

you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)

If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.

Career Opportunities

Completing this course opens the door to exciting roles in:

🐾 Environmental and Wildlife Research

🏥 Biomedical and Clinical Science

🔬 Laboratory and Research Support

🌿 Marine or Zoological Science

⚙️ Industrial or Quality Control Laboratories

💡 Education and Public Engagement in Science

These roles exist across Scotland’s expanding science, NHS, and research sectors, with strong demand for skilled life-science technicians.

Future prospects

Successful completion allows progression to:

HND Applied Biological Science (Year 2 at Glasgow Kelvin College)
Year 2 of related degree programmes at universities across Scotland, including:
- Zoology
- Marine Biology
- Physiology
- Biomedical Science
- Environmental Science

We also maintain close links with Glasgow’s universities to ensure this course supports your academic and professional goals.

Please note: university entry is based on meeting each institution’s own entry criteria.