Steps Into Science: NQ (Level 4)
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Course overview
Study life sciences in partnership with the University of Glasgow - and take your first step directly toward a second-year university place.
This unique HNC Applied Science (Life Science – University of Glasgow Articulation) course offers a direct route into Year 2 of a Life Sciences degree at the University of Glasgow. It’s part of a Widening Participation initiative that supports motivated learners from under-represented backgrounds to progress confidently into higher education.
You’ll study at both Glasgow Kelvin College and the University of Glasgow, gaining experience in university workshops, facilities, and support networks throughout the year. The course provides an ideal balance of small-group college teaching and early university exposure, helping you build confidence and familiarity before full-time degree study.
Subjects include Cell Biology, Chemistry, Human Physiology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Mathematics, and Statistics — giving you a strong foundation for a wide range of life-science specialisms. You’ll also complete a Graded Unit project focused on your chosen topic area, developing valuable research and scientific-writing skills.
This full-time programme covers 15 credits from the HNC Applied Science framework. It’s intensive but highly rewarding, with expert staff and close partnership support to help you reach your goals.
This course is ideal for:
- Learners aiming for a life-science degree at the University of Glasgow.
- Students with a passion for biology, physiology, or biochemistry who meet the widening-participation criteria.
- Those looking for a supportive environment that bridges college and university study.
- Adults or school-leavers seeking a direct progression route to university with small-class support.
What you will learn
You’ll build knowledge and skills across key areas of life science, including:
- Cell Biology – understanding structure, function, and genetic processes.
- Anatomy and Physiology – exploring how the human body and its systems work.
- Microbiology – investigating microorganisms and their impact on health and the environment.
- Chemistry and Biochemistry – studying chemical principles and molecular pathways in living systems.
- Mathematics and Statistics – applying numerical and analytical methods for scientific study.
- Scientific Techniques – gaining hands-on experience with laboratory methods and equipment.
- Dissertation/Graded Unit – researching and writing on a specialist life-science topic.
You’ll also participate in workshops and practical sessions at the University of Glasgow throughout the year, helping you integrate seamlessly into university study.
Entry requirements
Widening Participation Eligibility
This articulation programme is available to Scottish-domiciled applicants who meet at least one of the following criteria:
✅ Live in an SIMD decile 1–4 postcode area (use the University of Glasgow postcode checker).
✅ Are care-experienced.
✅ Are estranged and living without family support.
✅ Have caring responsibilities.
For any questions regarding the eligibility criteria, please contact the University of Glasgow’s Widening Participation Articulation Officer: daniel.keenan@glasgow.ac.uk.
Education requirements:
✅ Minimum of one Higher at grade C or above in Chemistry or Biology + National 5 (or equivalent) qualifications, at grade C, in Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and English. OR
✅ Successful completion of NQ Applied Science (Level 6) will also meet entry criteria.
Personal Statement Guidance
Your personal statement should:
- Explain why you want to study Life Sciences and progress to university.
- Highlight any academic, work, or volunteering experience related to biology or healthcare.
- Demonstrate skills and qualities such as motivation, teamwork, and perseverance.
- Show an understanding of the commitment required for this intensive programme.
Additional Information
All applications are reviewed competitively. When you start, your academic strengths will be assessed to confirm placement on the most suitable pathway and support plan.
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
This qualification opens doors to technical and professional roles in:
🔬 Biomedical and Clinical Science
🏥 Healthcare and NHS Laboratories
🌿 Environmental and Life-Science Research
⚗️ Pharmaceutical and Biotech Industries
📚 Education and Science Communication
Graduates also gain transferable skills in analysis, problem-solving, and teamwork — valuable across the wider STEM sector.
Future prospects
🎓 Guaranteed Articulation:
Learners who successfully complete:
- All units of the HNC Applied Science course
- The University of Glasgow workshops and assessments, and
- Achieve Grade A in the Graded Unit (Dissertation)
…will progress directly to Year 2 of a Life Sciences degree at the University of Glasgow.
You’ll have access to around 40 different life-science degree options, including:
- 🧬 Biochemistry
- 🧫 Microbiology
- 🌿 Environmental Biology
- 🧠 Neuroscience
- 💊 Pharmacology
Please note: entry to other university programmes is not guaranteed and is subject to individual university entry requirements.
