Program Overview

Overview of the Applied Bioscience FdSc Program

The Applied Bioscience FdSc program is a three-year degree apprenticeship that combines work-based learning with academic study. Developed in collaboration with employers, this program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to work in the bioscience industry.

Program Structure

The program consists of 240 credits, which are completed over three years on a part-time basis. The structure of the program includes:

• Year One: 75 credits
  • LABS401 Cell Biology (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS402 Biochemistry (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS403 Microbiology (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS404 Applied Chemistry (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS406 Basic Laboratory/Industry Skills (15 credits at Level 4)
• Year Two: 75 credits
  • LABS405 Human Physiology and Disease (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS407 Business Improvement (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS408 Metabolism and Enzymology (15 credits at Level 4)
  • LABS501 Advanced Laboratory/Industry Skills (15 credits at Level 5)
  • LABS507 GxP: Business Option (15 credits at Level 5)
• Year Three: 90 credits
  • LABS502 Company Based Project (45 credits at Level 5)
  • LABS503 Infection and Immunity (15 credits at Level 5)
  • LABS504 Applied Microbiology (15 credits at Level 5)
  • LABS505 Pharmacology (15 credits at Level 5)

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the Applied Bioscience FdSc program, students must meet the following requirements:

• A level: DD
• IB: 26/30 points (12/14 at Higher)
• GCSE: Five GCSE passes, including English Language or Use of English and Mathematics at grade C or above (9 - 4) with at least two subjects at A level
• International Baccalaureate: 26/30 points (12/14 at Higher)
• BTEC Nationals: BTEC National Certificate in Science (merit level) and a pass in an approved English language qualification
• Access to HE Diploma: A satisfactory pass in an approved Science Based Foundation or Access programme

Fees and Funding

The maximum amount of funding the government will contribute towards this apprenticeship is £27,000, including the end point assessment. The university is working with levy and non-levy employers to provide apprenticeships and welcome inquiries from interested organisations.

Career Opportunities

Upon completion of the Applied Bioscience FdSc program, graduates can pursue a range of career opportunities in the bioscience industry, including:

• Analytical Support Chemist
• Technical Support Scientist
• Microbiology Support Scientist
• Process Development Technologist
• Laboratory Assistant
• Senior Laboratory Technician
• Assistant Scientist
• Technical Specialist (Scientist)
• Quality Control Laboratory Assistant
• Laboratory Co-ordinator
• Technical Laboratory Assistant
• Laboratory Analyst
• Laboratory Research Assistant

Professional Recognition

This apprenticeship standard is recognised by the Science Council at registered Scientist (RSci) level.

Program Aims

The Applied Bioscience FdSc program aims to:

• Instil in students a sense of enthusiasm for learning which may lead to continuing professional development or pathways for lifelong learning
• Produce graduates equipped with the skills to play an enhanced role in the Biosciences Industry, nationally
• Educate students in the theoretical (subject specific knowledge) and practical (laboratory based) aspects of the biological sciences which relate to current and future employment needs
• Provide students with the skills to adapt and respond positively to new developments in the workplace
• Develop the critical, analytical, problem based learning skills required by the students in the workplace
• Develop student’s competences in a broad range of areas relevant to their current and future employment
• Enhance and develop the student’s interpersonal skills

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Applied Bioscience FdSc program, students will have gained a range of knowledge, intellectual skills, subject-specific skills, and transferable skills, including:

• Knowledge and understanding of the major elements, processes, and mechanisms of life, from molecular to cellular, and from organism to community
• The ability to recognise and apply subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts, or principles
• The ability to synthesise, analyse, and summarise information critically, including published research or reports
• The ability to obtain and integrate several lines of subject-specific evidence to formulate and test hypotheses
• The application of subject knowledge and understanding to address both familiar and unfamiliar problems
• The ability to recognise moral and ethical issues together with the appreciation of professional codes of conduct
• An ability to develop and utilise effective project management skills
• Undertake sufficient practical work to ensure competence in the basic experimental skills appropriate to the discipline under study
• The ability to design, plan, conduct, and report on investigations, which may involve primary or secondary data, arising from individual or group projects
• The ability to obtain, record, collate, and analyse data using appropriate techniques in their work discipline
• Undertake an extensive work-based project in a responsible, safe, and ethical manner, paying due attention to relevant health and safety guidelines/procedures
• The ability to use the internet and other electronic sources critically as a means of communication and a source of information
• A working knowledge of how to cite and reference work in an appropriate manner, including the avoidance of plagiarism
• An ability to effectively communicate information, arguments, and analysis, in a variety of forms, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• Develop numeracy skills and have a working appreciation of the terms: validity; accuracy; calibration; precision; replicability
• Extensive experience of solving problems by a variety of methods, including the use of computers
• An ability to recognise and respect the views and opinions of other team members and develop good negotiating skills
• The ability to evaluate one's performance as an individual and team member as well as being able to assess the performance of others
• Develop an adaptable, flexible, and effective approach to study and work

Conclusion

The Applied Bioscience FdSc program is a unique and innovative degree apprenticeship that provides students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the bioscience industry. With its strong focus on work-based learning and academic study, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to pursue a career in this field.