Science
Applied Science HNC
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
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 sufficiently varied and in-depth, allowing you to progress to university studies and prepare for employment that relies on a knowledge of applied sciences. You may also need to gain an additional Science Higher and National 5 Mathematics to progress to university.
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 a 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 required at National 5 Maths and English. Please note we do not accept Applications of Maths.
- Applied Science NC Level 6 is acceptable for entry
Note for internal/progressing students: Progression to HNC Applied Science (and from the current course) is not a guarantee and will be evaluated for each student at the end of the current course, taking attendance, performance (60% or above in unit assessments), and assessment attempts into consideration. Progressing students will be issued a conditional offer. An unconditional offer is not a guarantee and will be issued based on the curriculum team review at the end of June.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- Internal candidates will be required to sit a diagnostic test if the 60% requirement in unit assessments is not met.
- All external candidates will be required to attend an interview, which includes a scoping exercise to assess candidate suitability for the course.
- External candidates missing one entry requirement will be placed on a waiting list. In this case, you must pass a diagnostic test for the missing requirement. Diagnostic tests will only be offered if the course does not reach capacity; these will take place provisionally at the end of June.
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 | 24/08/26 |
