Program Overview

Foundation Year in Life Sciences CertHE

The Foundation Year in Life Sciences CertHE is designed to build practical skills, knowledge, and confidence, enabling students to continue onto a full undergraduate life sciences degree. This program is offered by the School of Life Sciences.

Overview

The Foundation Year in Life Sciences is a one-year program that provides access to degrees in Biochemistry, Biological or Biomedical science. It is particularly helpful for students who do not have the right qualifications for a science degree, those who have been out of education for a while, or those who want to build their confidence in science.

Why Study This Course

Life Sciences is a growing industry, forecast to continue growing due to expected changes in global health trends. Life Sciences graduates are employable in a wide range of professions. This foundation year course helps students with their transition into higher education and is open to students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland.

What You Will Learn

Over the course of the year, students will learn about:

• the basics of physics, chemistry, and numeracy
• biochemical reactions, and the techniques used to investigate them
• how cells and living organisms function
  • develop techniques and skills relevant for the biosciences, including laboratory skills
  • learn how to record biological data and plan experiments
  • gain confidence in numeracy, chemistry, and data handling for science
  • develop scientific skills through problem-solving activities
  • build transferable skills in communication, time management, critical thinking, and teamwork
  • receive tailored academic support to prepare for degree-level study

Benefits of Studying a Foundation Year

By studying this foundation year course, students can start in the second year of one of the undergraduate degrees upon completion, without adding an extra year to their overall study time. Students will study alongside first-year BSc students in some modules and receive targeted support in others, making the transition to the second year of a BSc degree easier.

Program Details

• Duration: 1 year
• UCAS Code: C103
• Location: Dundee City Campus
• Start Date: September 2026

Career Opportunities

The School of Life Sciences offers a wide range of Life Sciences degrees, and its world-leading life sciences researchers shape what is taught and how it is taught. This provides students with a good understanding of the fundamentals of the field and the latest advances, making them well-prepared for life after study and improving their employability. Graduates from the School of Life Sciences are highly sought after due to the school's outstanding reputation.