HND in Applied Biology
Qualification Obtained
BTEC HND Diploma in Applied Biology (QCF)
UCAS Code(s):
C900
About this Course:
Edexcel BTEC Higher Nationals in Applied Biology have been developed to focus on equipping individuals with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to succeed in employment in biologically-based industries which will enable students to progress onto an undergraduate degree or further professional qualification in applied biology or related areas
This course also provides specialist studies relevant to individual vocations and professions in which learners are working in, or intend to seek employment in, the biological sciences and their related Industries, especially as a Laboratory Scientist.
Learners will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attributes essential for successful performance in working life, enabling learners to make an immediate contribution providing flexibility, knowledge, skills and motivation as a basis for future studies and career.
Through the study of mandatory core and relevant specialist units learners will cover much of the underpinning knowledge, skills and understanding for the NVQ Level 4 units in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities.
Assessment Methods:
The course is assessed by practical report write-ups, research reports and work linked to local employer visits. There are no exams attached to this programme.
Progression:
Students will have the opportunity to gain employment in a relevant area or progress onto another degree programme.
BTEC Applied Biology students may go on to the following careers: Research Scientist, Haematologist, Dental Technician, Medical Researcher, Nurse, Physicist, Chemist and Biologist.
BTEC Applied Biology achievers may go on to work in the following environments: Health Service Providers, Government Establishments, Research and Educational Institutions, Blood Banks, Medical Research Departments and Hospital/Veterinary Laboratories.
Special Features:
The Higher National Diploma in Applied Science will be delivered 2.5 days per week over two years. The accessibility of the Higher National Diploma in Applied Biology programme should increase opportunities for learning since it can enable learners to 'earn and learn'. Although attendance is condensed into this intensive period in order to benefit both employers and employees, the course is considered 'full-time' for H.E. funding and remission purposes and carries 120 credits over one year and 240 credits over the full two year course.
- Introductory sessions on how to use the Internet will be available. In the College there are expanding library and other learning resources and facilities available. In addition, there are generous inter-library loan facilities and the opportunity to visit and to work in the Lancaster University library, which many students do.
- Pastoral and academic tutor support. Each student will be allocated a personal tutor who will monitor and review progress throughout the course. If you have problems which are not course-related, the College is able to offer you access to College counsellors and to Learning Support Services, which provide assistance and support for specific learning problems such as dyslexia.
- A range of off-site visits to local industries and work placement opportunities are available at Blackpool Victoria Hospital or other suitable industries.
- Small-group teaching, which is informal, interactive and rewarding for both staff and students
Teaching Methods:
The course is delivered in a mixture of styles including formal lectures, practical laboratory sessions, seminars, workshops and one-to-one tutorials. This HND will be delivered over 2.5 days per week, during the year. Tutors have an open door policy and can be contacted within college hours but outside normal teaching hours.
Skills Developed:
The HND integrates academic and work-based learning through close collaboration between employers and programme providers. It is built on a history of design and delivery of vocational qualifications in higher education, and is intended to equip learners with the skills and knowledge relevant to their employment, so satisfying the needs of employees and employers. It will also provide a pathway for lifelong learning and the opportunity to progress to other qualifications. The qualification will be offered through flexible modes of learning enabling learners to work and study at the same time and accommodate the learning needs of different types of students.
The balance of intellectual and practical skills and the related opportunities to apply such learning within the workplace are important and are considered carefully when designing this curriculum which has clearly defined intended learning outcomes. Edexcel designed this HND and much consideration has been given to the ways in which the work-based learning is appropriate to the particular needs of the relevant employment sector or type of employer, and how the programme helps to provide the knowledge and transferable skills needed for employment. The distinctiveness of HND depends upon the integration of the following characteristics: employer involvement, accessibility, articulation and progression, flexibility and partnership; this programme seeks address all of these.
The knowledge, understanding and skills associated with HND will be delivered through a diverse range of methods that will reflect the diversity of learners' needs. The teaching and learning strategy will identify appropriate teaching styles and learning opportunities for Foundation Degree learners as well as elements that may require additional resources, for example the management of work-based learning.
Lifelong learning will be encouraged by providing sufficient opportunity for self-directed learning and reflection. This will begin at level 4 and learners will be supported through workshops and tutorial to develop action plans to assist the learning process, and demonstrate that their learning outcomes have been achieved. There will be electronic monitoring of personal development plans (Mahara) in conjunction with learning agreements where relevant, as a reflective learning tool throughout the programme. By using Mahara the students will record learning and achievement in the form of a transcript.
How to Apply
Once you’ve decided to apply for a course, you’ll need to work out whether you satisfy our entry requirements (or will have done by the time your course starts). Providing you meet the criteria, you can then apply for your course. Full-time applications go through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), although foundation degree graduates progressing to a relevant top-up programme can (subject to certain criteria) apply to the College direct.
More information about entry requirements and the application process is available within our Higher Education section
Course Occurrences:
| Course Code | Start Date | End Date | Location | Tuition Fees | Attendance Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI1HE77 | 10th Sep 2012 | 13th Jun 2014 | Bispham Campus | £6000 | HE Full Time |
Disclaimer
Blackpool and The Fylde College makes every possible effort to ensure that the information published on this web site is accurate and up-to-date, but we accept no legal liability for errors or omissions, and reserve the right to make changes without notice. Where tuition fees are shown they are for one year only and correct only for the current academic year. Fees for subsequent years are subject to review. Some courses have additional costs such as equipment, uniforms, visits, exams, etc details of which can be obtained by contacting us on 01253 352352. Read our full disclaimer here
