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A science student wearing a lab coat observes a sample under a microscope in a laboratory environment.

Applied Science - Certificate of Higher Education

Summary

Designed for aspiring chemists and scientists, this programme has been co-created with the wealth of international chemistry manufacturing companies in the immediate area. This includes Victrex, DePuy Synthes, ThermoFisher and VMS – all international companies based a stones-throw from our campuses.

Our programme equips you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours essential for a leading career in the science sector that can take you around the world. You will experience a dynamic curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with scientific investigation in our cutting edge facilities.

Join the programme that has recently spent over £1m on science equipment to provide you with the best learning experience available!

  • Course code SS1HE07
  • UCAS code F180
  • Duration 1 Year
  • Day/s of week Tuesday
  • Time 09:00 - 16:00

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
08 Sep 2025
University Centre
1 Year
  • £32,400 average annual salary in this sector
  • STEM assured status
  • 88,047 annual job openings in the North West

What Uni Reviews

Good and comfortable with lots of help available and lots of facilities to help with learning. The teachers are very helpful and give you time to increase your skills. *****
Anonymous
The tutors went above and beyond. ****
Ashleigh Winchester
Loved it! *****
Samantha Thorpe

Student case study - Abigail

What have been the benefits of studying here?
The tutors and the facilities are incredible. The equipment is exactly like you would use in industry so it's a great introduction to lab work before you actually get into the workplace.

What are you hoping to do in the future?
I'm really interested in finding a position in lab work probably in a hospital setting. Pathology would definitely be one option as would haematology. Eventually, I'd like to head up a laboratory.

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

Upon successful completion of the Applied Science (Analytical Science) program at Blackpool and the Fylde College, you are ready for a huge range of careers.

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 chemistry careers and chart a path towards a fulfilling and impactful professional journey.

Next steps at B&FC

This course is equivalent to the first year of Applied Science (Analytical Science) - Foundation Degree. It provides an alternative option for those unable to commit to two consecutive years of study. Completion of this course will enable you to progress to the second year of the Foundation Degree.

Key information

Entry Requirements

You will need a minimum of 80 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) in relevant discipline or subject area.

BB from at least one of the following A levels - Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography or Environmental Science.

MMP from Extended Diploma or DM from Diploma in appropriate discipline such as Applied Science, Animal Management.

Mathematics and English Language GCSE at grade C/4 or above.

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are expected to achieve a minimum 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component.

International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 29 overall including 5 or above in English at standard level.

We will also consider applicants who can demonstrate relevant work/voluntary experience on an individual basis.

Adult Applicants from B&FC L3 courses may experience different entry requirements due to the matched content that they study, linked to progression on to this programme.

Qualification obtained

CertHE Applied Science

Fees and funding

Please visit our Financial Support page for more information about fees, funding and eligibility.

Extra costs and equipment

Whilst we cover most of the essentials, some trips may incur extra cost to facilitate and students may wish to purchase weather appropriate clothing.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institution: N/A

Awarding Body: Lancaster University

Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)

Terms and conditions

Read our full terms and conditions 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

Study Support - at a glance

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

Programme Specification

Download our Programme Specification for this course.

Two science students in lab coats intently observing samples through microscopes in a research environment.
A table displaying various tubes, petri dishes and vials, showcasing equipment for a science course.
A woman in a lab coat holds a test tube, analyzing a chemical solution as part of her scientific studies.
Two science students in lab coats intently observing samples through microscopes in a research environment. A table displaying various tubes, petri dishes and vials, showcasing equipment for a science course. A woman in a lab coat holds a test tube, analyzing a chemical solution as part of her scientific studies.
Two science students in lab coats intently observing samples through microscopes in a research environment.
A table displaying various tubes, petri dishes and vials, showcasing equipment for a science course.
A woman in a lab coat holds a test tube, analyzing a chemical solution as part of her scientific studies.

How will I learn?

Science at Blackpool and the Fylde College, embraces a forward-thinking approach to education, and our Flipped Learning model stands at the forefront of innovation. This dynamic method redefines traditional teaching by blending on-site and remote learning experiences. Students have the flexibility to access online, recorded presentations at their convenience, engaging with customised resources, reading lists and research tasks about the lesson content before attending college and focusing on the practical application of this content. You are choose your learning pace and time.

On-site sessions provide a unique space for practical skill development, utilising cutting-edge equipment and expert guidance from our dedicated team. These face-to-face sessions are carefully designed to reinforce the remote learning content. During on-site sessions, students participate in brief recaps to solidify their understanding before embarking on detailed practical investigations, including a significant number designed in partnership with local, national and international companies at the forefront of their fields. This hands-on approach ensures that theoretical knowledge seamlessly integrates with practical skills, creating a holistic learning experience.

Our commitment to the student experience reflects our dedication to empowering students to take charge of their education. By strategically blending on-site and remote elements, we provide a flexible, tailored, and immersive learning journey that caters to individual needs and maximises the use of our state-of-the-art facilities.

Learning Methods

Learning Method Level 4 Level 5 Level 6
Scheduled 540 0 0
Independent 660 0 0
Placement 0 0 0
Total 1200 0 0
Ready to take the next step? Navigate to the top of the page and click Apply Now to continue your degree-level journey.

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How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Assessment Method Level 4 Level 5 Level 6
Coursework 57% 0% 0%
Exam 0% 0% 0%
Practical 0% 0% 0%