Two scientists in white lab coats are investigating the properties of biological specimens and taking notes.

Applied Science (Biotechnology) - Foundation Degree

Shape the future of science with biotechnology

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.

Before applying, please check whether you meet the entry requirements under 'Key Information' for this course. Don't hesitate to call us on 01253 504343 if you need assistance.

  • £32,400 Average annual salary in this sector
  • STEM assured status
  • 88,047 Annual job openings in the North West

Black and white logo for Lancashire & Cumbria Institute of Technology.

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
  • 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

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 SS1HE03
  • UCAS code C910
  • Duration 2 Years
  • Day/s of week Tuesday
  • Time 09:00 - 16:00

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
07 Sep 2026
University Centre
2 Years
13 Sep 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 degreee 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.

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.

  • Modules at level 4

    Module title Code Credits Optional
    Essential Bioscience SS4MD001 20 No
    Scientific Research Skills SS4MD002 20 No
    Essential Chemistry SS4MD003 20 No
    Project SS4MD004 20 No
    Regulation in the Science Sector SS4MD005 20 No
    Laboratory and Field Skills SS4MD006 20 No

  • Modules at level 5

    Module title Code Credits Optional
    Specialist Scientific Techniques SS5MD001 20 No
    Microbiology Techniques SS5MD002 20 No
    Analysis of Scientific Data SS5MD003 20 No
    Molecular Techniques SS5MD004 20 No
    Advanced Project SS5MD005 20 No
    Work Based Learning SS5MD006 20 No

Learning Support - at a glance

  • Higher Education Learning Mentors (HELMs)
  • One-to-one and group learning support sessions
  • Pre-degree preparation workshops
  • IT Support
Discover available Learning Support

Programme Specification

Download our Programme Specification for this course.

Two science students in lab coats observe samples through microscopes in a research setting.
A table displays various tubes, petri dishes, and vials for a science course.
A woman in a lab coat holds a test tube and analyses a chemical solution.
Two science students in lab coats observe samples through microscopes in a research setting. A table displays various tubes, petri dishes, and vials for a science course. A woman in a lab coat holds a test tube and analyses a chemical solution.
Two science students in lab coats observe samples through microscopes in a research setting.
A table displays various tubes, petri dishes, and vials for a science course.
A woman in a lab coat holds a test tube and analyses a chemical solution.

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
Ready to take the next step? Navigate to the top of the page and click Apply Now to continue your degree-level journey.

Not the course for you?

Take a look at some of our other degree-level study options and see what sparks your imagination.

  • Applied Science - Certificate of Higher Education

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  • Applied Science (Analytical Chemistry) - Foundation Degree

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  • Applied Science (Environmental Science) - Foundation Degree

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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%