Summary
Our Cert HE with Foundation Year programme, awarded by Lancaster University, is a great place to start if you’re interested in science and want to build confidence before moving on to higher‑level study. It’s designed to support students from a wide range of backgrounds helping to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to succeed in Higher Education and in science.
The programme blends content developed alongside employers with content designed to help you develop your academic and professional skills. The Foundation Year is designed to introduce you to essential topics in biology and chemistry while offering targeted academic and pastoral support to develop your confidence and resilience. This pathway is ideal if you are aiming to return to education after a break or want to further develop your skills before taking on HE study.
On completion of the Foundation Year, you will progress onto the Certificate of Higher Education. In this year you will continue to develop skills which are vital for your future science career. Alongside science topics Essential Bioscience and Essential Chemistry, you will learn about regulations required in the science industry as well as working on a team project. You’ll be encouraged to develop personally and professionally throughout the programme.
Entry Requirements
32 UCAS POINTS
GCSE maths and English grade 4 and above
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
The CertHE with Foundation Year is a level 4 qualification which leads directly onto the Foundation Degree and/or Honours Degree (level 5 and 6). There are three pathways to choose from at this point, Analytical Chemistry, Biotechnology or Environmental Science.
Alternatively, you could enter the workforce in the science sector, being equipped with the knowledge, skills and behaviours of a scientist.
Next steps at B&FC
The combined two‑year model supports a more personalised and inclusive approach to science education, enabling learners from diverse backgrounds to grow in confidence, access tailored support, and progress more smoothly into Level 5 study, STEM‑related degrees, or applied science careers. Ultimately, this integrated structure promotes long‑term success by strengthening learner identity, improving retention and providing a clear, aspirational route through higher education.
Other study options
Learners completing the Science Foundation Year with a CertHE can progress into a wide range of further study options across universities and higher education providers. Opportunities include degrees in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental or biomedical science,
Employment Opportunities
Completing a Science Foundation Year with a CertHE opens the door to a wide range of entry‑level employment opportunities across scientific, technical and healthcare sectors. You will have practical lab experience, data‑handling skills and scientific communication abilities that are highly valued in roles such as laboratory assistant, research technician, quality control support, environmental monitoring technician and healthcare science assistant. Many industries—including pharmaceuticals, food manufacturing, environmental services, NHS laboratories and biotechnology companies—offer roles suited to graduates with strong foundational scientific skills.
Key information
Qualification obtained
CertHE Applied ScienceFees 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
n/a
What will I learn?
On this Applied Science programme, you’ll develop a strong understanding of the scientific principles that shape the world around us – from the chemistry of materials to the biology of living systems and the environmental challenges facing our planet. You’ll explore core topics such as cells, molecules, chemical reactions and ecosystems, and learn how scientists apply this knowledge in real-world contexts including healthcare, sustainability and industry.
Alongside this, you’ll build practical laboratory and fieldwork skills, learn to analyse and interpret data, and gain experience of the scientific method through investigations and projects. You’ll also develop essential academic, digital and professional skills, preparing you for further study and a wide range of careers in science.
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
There are no specific placements on this programme, but you will be using industry standard equipment and use similar procedures to those used in the workplace. Field trips bring science to life by taking you into environments like nature reserves, research centres, universities or industrial facilities, helping you connect your learning to real scientific challenges and careers. You’ll also hear from inspiring guest speakers, including scientists, researchers, technicians and industry professionals who share their experiences, career journeys and insider knowledge. These opportunities help you discover new interests, understand different STEM pathways and feel motivated about where your science journey can take you.
How will I learn?
You’ll learn through a blend of interactive teaching, practical experimentation and independent study that brings science to life. You’ll take part in laboratory experiments, fieldwork and problem solving activities, developing your skills by planning investigations, collecting data and applying scientific techniques. Your learning will include a mix of lectures, online resources, workshops and group discussions, allowing you to prepare in advance and apply your knowledge in practical sessions.
You’ll also work collaboratively on projects and real-world scenarios, building teamwork and communication skills while gaining insight into how science operates in professional environments. Throughout the course, you’ll be supported by experienced tutors and encouraged to reflect on your progress to build confidence and independence as a learner.
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 | 630 | 0 | 0 |
| Independent | 770 | 0 | 0 |
| Placement | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 1400 | 0 | 0 |
How will I be assessed?
You’ll be assessed through a variety of practical and academic tasks designed to develop the key skills needed for science study and employment. These include laboratory-based practical assessments, written reports, essays and case studies, as well as presentations and project work. Many of your assessments will be based on real scientific investigations or scenarios, allowing you to analyse data, apply the scientific method and communicate your findings clearly.
You’ll also complete portfolio work and reflective tasks to demonstrate your development over time. Regular feedback throughout the course will support your progress, helping you build confidence in your practical skills, scientific thinking, and ability to present and evaluate evidence.
| Assessment Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 58% | 0% | 0% |
| Exam | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Practical | 0% | 0% | 0% |