Program Overview

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Technician Scientist Apprenticeship (Levels 4-5)

The Technician Scientist Apprenticeship is a higher-level apprenticeship program that operates in diverse fields such as chemistry, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, nuclear companies, and analytical science services. Technician Scientists conduct routine and specialized laboratory tests and provide technical support across the organization, working both independently and as part of a team.

About the Program

This program is an ideal starting point for anyone looking to work in the chemical or bioscience industry. Working as part of a wider scientific team, Technician Apprentices develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviors needed to become a qualified technician. Many of our Technician Scientists have progressed onto further studies such as Laboratory Scientist.

Benefits of the Program

During the program, apprentices learn how to work safely in a laboratory while following appropriate safety, environmental, and risk management systems. Apprentices will gain skills in using instrumentation and laboratory equipment and become competent in analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating data.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants will need two A-Levels (or equivalent), including Chemistry or Biology, depending on the chosen route. Alternatively, candidates must have completed a Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship or T level (in a relevant science discipline).
• A GCSE in English and Maths (or equivalent qualification) is required.
• Candidates without these qualifications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and any evidence of previous study and work experience will be considered.

Start Dates

We offer start dates in September and January. The cut-off for applications is normally one month prior to the start of the course.

Fees and Funding

Maximum funding for this apprenticeship is £21,000. For Levy employers, 100% of training costs are covered by the Apprenticeship Levy. For smaller employers, up to 95% of the costs can be covered by government co-investment.

Duration and Commitment

This apprenticeship will last for three years and three months, including the end-point assessment. This course is delivered remotely, with face-to-face teaching during yearly summer schools.

Advisor Support

Participants will receive academic support and have meetings with a dedicated Apprenticeship Advisor every 8-12 weeks throughout the course.

Work and Study Balance

Apprentices are expected to take one study day each week to complete their off-the-job training. The remaining time will be spent in the workplace.

Modules

Each year includes compulsory modules to build foundational knowledge and skills. Apprentices can choose optional modules and complete company-based projects to apply their learning in practical settings.

Bioscience Year 1

Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:

• Option 1: Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Applied Chemistry, Basic Laboratory/Industry Skills.
• Option 2: Biology of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells, Biochemistry, Applied Chemistry, Basic Laboratory/Industry Skills, Human Physiology and Disease.

Bioscience Year 2

Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:

• Option 1: Human Physiology & Disease, Metabolism & Enzymology, Business Improvement, GxP, Advanced Laboratory/Industry Skills.
• Option 2: Metabolism & Enzymology, Business Improvement, GxP, Advanced Laboratory/Industry Skills, Applied Microbiology, Infection and Immunity.

Bioscience Year 3

Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:

• Option 1: Applied Microbiology, Infection and Immunity, Pharmacology, Company Based Project.
• Option 2: Pharmacology, Company Based Project, Research Methods, Drug Discovery & Development.

Bioscience Year 4

Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:

• Research Methods, Drug Discovery and Development, Company Based Laboratory Research Project.
• They then choose three optional modules from the list below:
  • Nanomedicine
  • Biopharmaceuticals & Gene Therapy
  • Clinical Pharmacology
  • Advanced Immunology & Microbiology
  • Advanced Therapeutic Agents

Bioscience Year 5

Company Based Laboratory Research Project.

Chemical Science Year 1

Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:

• Option 1: Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, General and Inorganic Chemistry, Basic Analytic Chemistry, Basic Laboratory/Industry Skills.
• Option 2: Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, General & Inorganic Chemistry, Basic Analytical Chemistry, Basic Laboratory/Industry Skills, Introduction to Polymer Chemistry.

Chemical Science Year 2

Compulsory Module: Introduction to Polymer Chemistry.

• Option 1: Biochemistry, Microbiology, Business Improvement, GxP, Advanced Laboratory/Industry Skills.
• Option 2: Biochemistry, Business Improvement, GxP, Advanced Laboratory/Industry Skills, Optional Module, Optional Module.

Chemical Science Year 3

Company Based Project. Choose 3 of 4 Module Blocks:

• Separation Science
• Spectroscopic Methods in Organic Chemistry
• Introduction to Drug Synthesis
• Pharmacology

Chemical Science Year 4

Compulsory Modules: Research Methods, Organic Chemistry. Choose 3 of 4 Module Blocks:

• Computational Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Nanomedicine
• Advanced Therapeutic Agents Company Based Laboratory Research Project.

Chemical Science Year 5

Company Based Laboratory Research Project.

Related Programs of Study

There are two academic programs that underpin the Technician Scientist Standard (Level 5):

• FdSc in Applied Bioscience
• FdSc in Applied Chemical Sciences

Next Steps

Our team is here to help you apply for the apprenticeship program, whether you're ready to join or need guidance on the process. We're ready to assist you in getting started.