Engineering
Applied Science HNC
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2025
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course is ideal for developing a career requiring practical knowledge of the Sciences. You’ll study each of the main branches of Science: Chemistry and Biology, and undertake specialist units to increase your lab skills.
The course is designed to be both sufficiently varied and in-depth to allow you to progress onto university studies, and prepare you for employment that relies on a knowledge of applied sciences. To progress on to a university you may also need to gain an additional Science Higher and National 5 Mathematics.
You are advised to research your university choices early to ensure you apply for the correct complement of courses.
What you will learn
- Maths and Statistics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Lab Skills
How the course is assessed
- Ongoing assessment per unit (theory)
- Ongoing assessment per unit (practical)
- A grading system based on graded unit
- All units within the course must be achieved to gain the full award
Number of days per week
- 3 days per week
Entry requirements
- To study Biology/Chemistry subjects you must have achieved a pass in Higher Chemistry and Higher Biology or Human Biology with a minimum of a C grade
- C grade passes required at National 5 Maths and English. Please note we do not accept Applications of Maths. Candidates who hold Applications of Maths (Level 5 or above) and meet all other entry requirements, may be eligible for a Maths diagnostic test for entry.
- Applied Science NC Level 6 is acceptable for entry
Note for internal/progressing students: Progression to HNC Applied Science is not a guarantee and will be evaluated for each student at the end of the current course taking attendance, performance and assessment attempts into consideration.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- External or internal applicants may be required to sit a diagnostic test. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
- Students who have previously been given an opportunity to complete the course or apply again will be required to complete a diagnostic test. Applications to repeat a course will only be considered if there are places available – this will be reviewed in August.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 6.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- Progress onto Year 1/2 at university on a range of science-related courses
- Progress to Heriot-Watt University to do all BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences Degrees
Career options
- Employment both within and outwith Science sector may be possible
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 25/08/25 |
