Steps Into Science: NQ (Level 4)
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Course overview
Are you interested in a rewarding career in applied science? Then this may be the course for you with potential progression to study in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular science, forensics and pharmacy to name a few.
You will be part of a class who also have a keen interest in chemistry, helping you foster and develop your knowledge and understanding with other like-minded people.
The HNC Applied Science programme is a one year programme covering 15 credits from the HNC Applied Science Framework. This is a chemistry focused programme. The programme is designed to give you a broad overview of the applied sciences area and covers subjects such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, instrumentation, biochemistry, maths and statistics.
This course will provide the fundamental skills and qualifications to progress to study a chemical science based degree at university, with many successful learners completing the course gaining direct entry to year 2 of their chosen degree programmes. There may also be an opportunity to gain immediate employment in the chemical industry too.
The course is a full time, intensive, but highly rewarding. It is a challenging, yet supportive, environment in which to develop your scientific theory and understanding, along with the practical skills you need to support this theory. We will provide you with a range of online and in class delivery to maximise your learning experience.
What you will learn
You will build up an excellent understanding of a broad range of scientific concepts and skills, including:
- Organic chemistry
- Inorganic chemistry
- Mathematics and statistics
- Physics,
- Cell biology
You will also take part in practical units to develop your experience of scientific techniques and equipment.
Entry requirements
- 1 higher at grade C for Chemistry.
- National 5 (or equivalent) Maths, Chemistry, Biology and English
- Students that have successfully completed all units on a NQ Applied Science L6 course would also meet the entry requirements
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.
Entry to the course will be based upon a competitive review of the applications.
Applicants should now provide detailed information on relevant life, education and employment experience within their personal statement, in addition to demonstrating a genuine interest in the subject.
Tell us what experience you have in the subject already? What about the subject interests you? What skills do you have that will make you a good candidate for the course? Give examples. If your personal statement is missing this crucial information it is likely your application will be rejected and you will be unsuccessful.
Relevant work experience will also be considered.
Candidates will also have experience of science and mathematics at National 5 or intermediate 2. Relevant experience will also be considered.
All applications will be considered.
When you start the course we will review your academic understanding and skills to ensure you are placed on the correct programme. If you need support in particular area/s we may move you to an alternative pathway to allow you the best possible chance of success.
Career Opportunities
You will be able to apply for a variety of technical jobs within the science industry. These include production technician, medical laboratory assistant, school technician and industrial science technician
Future prospects
When you are finished your HNC you will have the option to apply for 1st or 2nd year of most chemical science courses at all universities. Graduates go on to study chemistry, chemical engineering, forensic science, opthalmics, radiography, pharmacology, teaching and many others. These courses will allow you to pursue many variable and exciting career paths.
Please note that we do not guarantee entry to any degree programmes, this is fully dependent on the universities entry requirements and you.
