Applied Science – Pharmacology and Biomedical Science (GCU): HNC

Course overview

Are you interested in a rewarding career in applied science with direct entry to prestigious degree programmes at Glasgow Caledonian University? Then this may be the course for you with potential progression to 2nd year of a degree at Glasgow Caledonian University.

You will be part of a class who also have a keen interest in pharmacology and biomedical science helping you foster and develop your knowledge and understanding with other like-minded people.

You will have the opportunity to complete your Graded Unit 1 project on a topic relating to your chosen area allowing you the chance to further develop your skills, knowledge and understanding in this area.

Students that complete the HNC successfully have the potential option of progressing to biomedical science, pharmacology, food science and biological science courses at Glasgow Caledonian University. Throughout the year you will visit the university and gain access to their diverse services and resources. You will familiarise yourself with the University and how it works as well as get to know the teaching and support staff.

What you will learn

You will build up an excellent understanding of a broad range of scientific concepts and skills, including:

• Cell Biology

• Chemistry

• Anatomy and physiology

• Microbiology

• Mathematics

• Biochemistry

• Dissertation writing

You will also learn to perform a vast range of scientific techniques essential for industry and academia

Entry requirements

• 1 higher at grade C from either Chemistry, Human Biology or Biology.

• National 5 (or equivalent) Maths, Chemistry, Biology and English

• Students that have successfully completed all units on a NQ Applied Science L6 course would also meet the entry requirements.

For this course, if English is not your first language

• you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent,

• If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment  here at the College.

Entry to the course will be based upon a competitive review of the applications.

Applicants should now provide detailed information on relevant life, education and employment experience as well as displaying their character and what will make them successful on the course within their personal statement, in addition to demonstrating a genuine interest in the subject.

Relevant work experience will also be considered

When you start the course we will review your academic understanding and skills to ensure you are placed on the correct programme. If you need support in particular area/s we may move you to an alternative pathway to allow you the best possible chance of success. 

Career Opportunities

Employment in a huge range of science disciplines within the NHS and industry in Scotland and across the whole world.

Future prospects

We have excellent relationships with all universities in Glasgow and have designed this course to suit progression to their science courses.

When you are finished your HNC you will have the option to apply for 2nd year of most science courses at all universities. Graduates go on to study microbiology, immunology, virology and parasitology as well as many others. These courses will allow you to pursue many variable and exciting career paths such as a biomedical scientist, vaccine development scientist, clinical research scientist and many more.

We also offer progression to the yr 2 of our HND programme. Successful students on the HNC course will be given priority places on this course.

You will also be able to apply for a variety of technical jobs within the science industry. These include production technician, medical laboratory assistant, school technician and industrial science technician.

Please note that we do not guarantee entry to any degree programmes, this is fully dependent on the universities entry requirements and you.