• Qualifications Higher National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 7
  • Study mode
  • Campus Kilmarnock, Kilwinning
  • Start date August 2026
  • Duration 36 weeks

Attendance/Duration

Full-time

Overview

The life sciences industry in Scotland is thriving, offering exciting opportunities to collaborate, bring new concepts to life and life-changing products to market. A key part of this is biomedical science, which focuses on how the human body works, and how to treat or cure it from disease. Biomedical scientists usually work in a laboratory, carrying out tests related to screening, analysis or diagnosis. This ranges from common blood tests and tissue samples, to specialist procedures to detect cancer.

If you're looking for a career in the biomedical sector, this course is ideal. Alternatively, it may also help your entry to future nursing or midwifery studies.

Entry Requirements

We’re looking for you to have a:

  • A real interest in Science.
  • A minimum of one Higher at Grade C or above, ideally in Biology, Human Biology or Chemistry.
  • Alternatively, a science related NC course at SCQF Level 6, a Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies or equivalent.

Mathematics at National 5 or intermediate 2 level is also beneficial.

No formal qualifications? Don't worry! We may consider life experience or relevant training.

Course Content

This course blends essential knowledge with practical skills crucial for a successful career in Science. You’ll learn biology and chemistry, but with the underpinning practical skills required to be a successful and employable scientist - be prepared to spend plenty of time in the lab conducting experiments and processing your results!

Our comprehensive curriculum includes:

  • Laboratory skills
  • Human physiology
  • Microbiology
  • Fundamental chemistry and biochemistry
  • Cell biology
  • DNA and genetics
  • Statistics/mathematics

Careers and Further Study

Upon successful completion of this course, you may:

  • Progress to HND Biomedical Science at Ayrshire College or HND Industrial Biotechnology.
  • Move onto a related degree at a university.
  • Begin your career, securing a technical level post in the NHS or similar fields.