Biomedical Science

Course Overview

This is a practical course designed for anyone who is interested in medical science.

You will learn about a variety of science and medical techniques, including physiology, microbiology, genetics and other areas of science related to medicine.

The course provides good preparation for anyone wanting to progress to careers in professions such as radiography, pharmacy, healthcare science and the pharmaceutical industries.

The College has a brand new state-of-the-art laboratory and highly qualified and experienced staff. The department organises a variety of trips, for example, visits to university departments (e.g. Sports Science, Biomedical Science) and international visits to Geneva.

This course will develop your laboratory, numeracy, communication and team working skills.

This course usually takes place over 3 days per week for two years. You complete the National Foundation Diploma in the first year and the National Extended Diploma in the second year. The two-year course is equivalent to 3 A-Levels and is worth up to 168 UCAS points (Triple Distinction*) or 144 UCAS points (Triple Distinction). UCAS have recently changed the UCAS Tariff from September 2017 so they could include more qualifications. The new Tariff points are lower than the original Tariff points but the value remains the same, as universities will just use lower Tariff numbers in their entry requirements than in previous years.

All of our learners will be given support with their English and Maths skills where relevant to their main course. Those students who have not yet achieved a Grade 4 (or C) at GCSE in these subjects will continue to work towards these important qualifications at a level suited to them. However, students will still have to achieve the stated Entry Requirements before they start the course.

The course gives you the opportunity to study a number of specialist units including:

- Principles and Applications of Science
- Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
- Science Investigation Skills
- Laboratory Techniques and their Application
- Investigative Project
- Physiology of Human Body Systems
- Diseases and infections
- Practical Chemical Analysis

Teaching will include a mix of theory and practical sessions.

The majority of assessment is achieved through assignments (including essays, practical reports, posters and oral presentations) and there are two exams and two externally assessed units. Class tests may also occasionally be used. Learners should expect 3-5 assignments per unit.