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Engineering

Applied Science HNC

Campus Sighthill Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 7

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2024

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Course overview

This course is ideal for developing a career requiring practical knowledge of the Sciences. You’ll study each of the main branches of Science: Chemistry and Biology, and undertake specialist units to increase your lab skills. 

The course is designed to be both sufficiently varied and in-depth to allow you to progress onto university studies, and prepare you for employment that relies on a knowledge of applied sciences. To progress on to a university you may also need to gain an additional Science Higher and National 5 Mathematics.


You are advised to research your university choices early to ensure you apply for the correct complement of courses.

What you will learn

  • Maths and Statistics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Lab Skills

How the course is assessed

  • Ongoing assessment per unit (theory)
  • Ongoing assessment per unit (practical)
  • A grading system based on graded unit
  • All units within the course must be achieved to gain the full award 

Number of days per week

  • 3 days per week

Entry requirements

  • To study Biology/Chemistry subjects you must have achieved a pass in Higher Chemistry and Higher Biology or Human Biology with a minimum of a C grade
  • C grade passes required at National 5 Maths and English. Please note we do not accept Applications of Maths. Candidates who hold Applications of Maths (Level 5 or above) and meet all other entry requirements, may be eligible for a Maths diagnostic test for entry. 
  • Applied Science NC Level 6 is acceptable for entry

Note for internal/progressing students: Progression to HNC Applied Science is not a guarantee and will be evaluated for each student at the end of the current course taking attendance, performance and assessment attempts into consideration.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

  • External or internal applicants may be required to sit a diagnostic test. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 
  • Students who have previously been given an opportunity to complete the course or apply again will be required to complete a diagnostic test. Applications to repeat a course will only be considered if there are places available – this will be reviewed in August. 

English Proficiency Requirements

IELTS 6.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

  • Progress onto Year 1/2 at university on a range of science-related courses
  • Progress to Heriot-Watt University to do all BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences Degrees 

Career options

  • Employment both within and outwith Science sector may be possible

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Sighthill Campus Full time 26/08/24

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