HND Applied Bioscience

Higher National qualifications have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry ¿ so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.

The Unit-based structure supports flexibility. A Unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

There is a wide choice of optional Units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.

This HN provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).

The HND in Applied Bioscience is suitable for a wide range of candidates including:

• school leavers
• adult returners to education
• individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
• people who wish to start their own business

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

• an SVQ at Level 2 or 3 in a relevant area
• relevant work experience
• two Highers (SCQF level 6) or 1 'A' level pass (SCQF level 7) to include Biology or Chemistry, plus English and Mathematics at SCQF level 5 or equivalent or a National Certificate Group Award or other qualification at SCQF level 5/6 in a related subject area such as Life Science, Applied Science, Biological Science, Science, Biotechnology, Science and Technology

Different combinations of relevant National Qualifications, vocational qualifications and equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies may also be acceptable.

Progression and employment

The Applied Bioscience HND may provide opportunities to enter employment that leads to positions such as: laboratory technician; animal technician; quality control officer; grain quality technician; creamery technician; technical representative.

The HND Applied Bioscience can provide direct entry to Year 3 of BSc Applied Bioscience, or BSc Applied Animal Science, according to the second year optional Units chosen. There are other progression routes to biological science courses at other higher education establishments.

Higher National qualifications also provide the knowledge and understanding required for related Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs).

What you'll learn?

The Applied Bioscience HND develops knowledge, understanding and skills in biological sciences and their applications to the land-based industries, including the crop, livestock and environmental sectors. You will have the opportunity to develop: an awareness of safe working practices; underpinning knowledge of the biological and physical sciences and technology in the land-based industries and the environmental sector; scientific and practical laboratory skills, particularly in immunotechnology and DNA molecular technology; and knowledge and understanding of ecological and environmental issues.

There are options that allow you to specialise in an area such as applied crop science, applied animal science or environmental science.

You will develop study and research skills, as well as skills in planning, development, synthesis and evaluation.

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will have to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Guide to Approval.

Each individual Unit specification gives detailed information on the Evidence Requirements and approaches to assessment for each Unit.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.

Assessment/e-assessment support packs are available for this qualification.

• Remediation of Graded Units in Sciences (176 KB)