Summary
Biotechnology sits at the cutting edge of modern science, driving advances in healthcare, environmental sustainability and industrial innovation. Our Applied Science (Biotechnology) Foundation Degree is designed for people who want to enter this fast‑growing sector with practical laboratory skills, industry‑relevant knowledge and clear progression routes into employment or further study.
Developed in collaboration with local biotechnology employers, this course focuses on how science is applied in real‑world laboratory, research and commercial environments.
What you’ll study
You’ll build a strong understanding of the scientific principles that underpin modern biotechnology, alongside hands‑on experience in contemporary laboratory techniques. Core areas typically include:
- Molecular biology, microbiology and genetics
- Biochemistry and bioanalytical methods
- Laboratory techniques and quality control
- Data handling, analysis and scientific reporting
The applied approach ensures you understand not just the theory, but how biotechnology is used across industry and research settings.
Hands‑on, industry‑focused learning
Practical laboratory work is central to the course, helping you develop confidence with industry‑standard methods and ways of working. You’ll gain experience that reflects the expectations of biotechnology employers, preparing you for entry‑level scientific roles or further academic progression.
Is this course for you?
If you’re motivated by scientific discovery, innovation and practical problem‑solving, this course provides a strong, industry‑aligned starting point for a rewarding career in biotechnology.
Entry Requirements
To join this course, you’ll normally need a minimum of 80 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) from a relevant subject area, plus GCSEs in English and maths.
Accepted qualifications include:
- A levels
- BB with at least one of the following:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography or Environmental Science
- BB with at least one of the following:
- BTEC / vocational qualifications
- Extended Diploma: MMP
- Diploma: DM
- In a relevant subject such as Applied Science or Animal Management
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above
- International qualifications
- International Baccalaureate Diploma:
- Minimum 29 points overall, including 5 or above in English at Standard Level
- English language requirements (if English is not your first language):
- IELTS 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component
- International Baccalaureate Diploma:
Additional information
- Applicants with relevant work or voluntary experience may be considered on an individual basis
- Adult applicants progressing from B&FC Level 3 courses may have different entry requirements, where course content aligns with this programme
Entry Requirements(Non-traditional entry route)
We will also consider applicants who can demonstrate relevant work/voluntary experience on an individual basis.
- Course code ES1HE0004
- UCAS code C910
- Duration 2 Years
- Day/s of week Tuesday
- Time 09:00 - 16:00
Next course dates
| Start date | Location | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
September 2027
|
University Centre
|
2 Years
|
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
Having completed the Applied Science (Biotechnology) programme at Blackpool and The Fylde College, you will be ready to embark on a wide-range of careers across the science sector.
Graduates from this degree are well-positioned for roles in bioscience and biotechnology, quality control, and analytical laboratories. The programme's emphasis on practical skills ensures proficiency in using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. Additionally, pathways extend to further academic pursuits, including bachelor's and master's degrees in biotechnology, bioscience, life science or other related fields.
With a solid foundation in both theoretical principles and hands-on experimentation, our graduates are equipped to contribute to scientific advancements and innovation. Explore the diverse world of biotechnology careers and chart a path towards a fulfilling and impactful professional journey.
Next steps at B&FC
The next step at B&FC is to pursue the Applied Science (Biotechnology) BSc(Hons) Topup to give you a full honours qualification.
Employment Opportunities
Biotechnology graduates have opportunities to work in a number of different branches of biotechnology including:
Laboratory & Technical Roles
Laboratory Technician / Scientist | Biomedical Scientist (with further accreditation) | Research Assistant
Industry, Pharmaceutical & Commercial Biotechnology
Biotechnology Technician | Quality Control / Quality Assurance Analyst | Manufacturing or Process Technician | Pharmaceutical or Clinical Research Roles
Environmental & Applied Science
Environmental Scientist or Technician |Food and Drink Science Technician
Key information
Qualification obtained
FdSc Applied Science (Biotechnology)Fees and funding
Visit our Tuition Fees page and Financial Support for Degrees page for more information about fees and funding, including additional financial support for those on low incomes, with dependent children or adults, or with disabilities.
Extra costs and equipment
Whilst we cover most of the essentials, some trips may incur extra cost and students may also wish to purchase weather appropriate clothing to conduct some outdoor tasks.
Regulation and Accreditation
Accrediting Institution: N/A
Awarding Body: Lancaster University
Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)
Terms and conditions
Please visit our Student Terms and Conditions page for more information.
What will I learn?
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
You will be encouraged to secure a work placement as part of this programme, forming an assessed module in Level 5. This opportunity is wide ranging and heavily supported by our industry partners, giving students a rich experience of what it is like to have a scientific career whilst they are studying.
We provide a range of field trips as part of this programme, including data collection, surveying and also visits designed to enhance the learning experience.
How will I learn?
You’ll begin by building your theoretical knowledge in our well‑equipped classrooms, before moving into our specialist training laboratories to develop your practical skills.
All laboratory sessions are supervised by industry‑experienced tutors, who provide ongoing guidance and feedback on your methods and techniques to help you build confidence and accuracy.
Flipped learning approach
Science at Blackpool and The Fylde College uses a Flipped Learning model, combining flexible online study with hands‑on, on‑campus learning.
- Before coming to college, you’ll access recorded lectures, guided resources, reading lists and research activities online
- This allows you to learn at your own pace, choosing when and how you engage with the theoretical content
- Time on campus is then focused on applying that knowledge through practical work
On‑campus practical sessions
Face‑to‑face sessions are designed to reinforce what you’ve learned online and focus on practical skill development using industry‑standard equipment.
- Sessions begin with short recaps to consolidate understanding
- You’ll then carry out in‑depth practical investigations, many developed in collaboration with local, national and international industry partners
- Tutors provide expert support throughout to ensure theory and practice are fully connected
A flexible, student‑focused experience
By blending online learning with on‑site practical sessions, the course offers a flexible, supportive and immersive learning experience. This approach empowers you to take ownership of your studies while making full use of our state‑of‑the‑art facilities and specialist teaching expertise.
Expert tutors
All tutors involved in the delivery of courses and apprenticeships within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.
Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and a familiarity with professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich students’ learning experience, giving them an insight into what working in the industry is really like.
Learning Methods
| Learning Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled | 540 | 540 | 0 |
| Independent | 660 | 660 | 0 |
| Placement | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 1200 | 1200 | 0 |
How will I be assessed?
| Assessment Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 57% | 54% | 0% |
| Exam | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Practical | 0% | 0% | 0% |