HNCPearson BTEC Higher National Certificate
Applied Sciences
You'll study scientific principles, laboratory techniques and research methods. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate: Level 4, 120 credits. It is also the first year of the HND.
Full title: Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Applied Sciences
- Level
- Level 4Higher National Certificate
- Size
- 120credits
- Units
- 5 mandatoryplus 5 optional listed
- For
- School leavers and adults
01What you'll study
Three areas of study.
-
Scientific principles
-
Laboratory techniques
-
Research methods
Where you learn
In Lisbon, or wherever you are.
The same Pearson qualification, whichever way you study.
02The units
What's on the course.
Mandatory units, plus optional units. Your final set of optional units is confirmed with your academic team.
- Mandatory
- 5
- Optional listed
- 5
- PSA units
- 1
- Unit 1 Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 2 Scientific Data Management and Handling 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 3 Regulation and Quality in the Applied SciencesPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 4 Cell Biology 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 5 Fundamentals of Chemistry 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 6 Anatomy and Human Physiology 15 Credits Specialist
- Unit 7 Criminal Investigation 15 Credits Specialist
- Unit 10 Inorganic Chemistry 15 Credits Specialist
- Unit 8 Microbiology & Microbiological Techniques 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 13 Fundamentals of Physics 15 Credits Optional
PSA Pearson Set Assignment: a unit assessed through an assignment that Pearson sets.
03How you're assessed
Assessed through assignments.
Assignment-based, with a Pearson-set assignment unit.
Assessment at a glance
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
Skills you build
- Advanced laboratory techniques, aseptic handling, and precision analysis
- Biological and chemical research methodologies and data triangulation
- Quality control, GLP (Good Laboratory Practice), and safety standards
- Bioinformatics, molecular biology, and environmental testing protocols
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
The HNC is the first year of the HND (Level 5).
- L3 Applied Science Level 3
- HNC Applied Sciences This course
- HND Applied Sciences HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
What is the difference between an HNC and an HND?
An HNC is a Level 4 qualification worth 120 credits. An HND is a Level 5 qualification worth 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
How is it assessed?
Through assignments (coursework). Higher Nationals include a Pearson-set assignment unit at each level.
Can an HND lead to a degree?
HND graduates can apply to top up to a bachelor's degree, usually entering the final year, at universities that accept HNDs. Entry is subject to each university's own requirements.
What does it cost?
Fees are set by level, with and without boarding. The HNC (Level 4) figures are on the fees page. See the fees.
How do I apply?
Send us an enquiry with the subject and level you are interested in. We'll get back to you to talk through your options and the next steps.
06Start here
Where will you start?
Tell us about yourself, what you'd like to study and whether you'd rather join us in Lisbon or online. We'll suggest a starting level and talk you through your options.