HNDPearson BTEC Higher National Diploma
Applied Sciences
You'll study scientific principles, laboratory techniques and research methods. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma: Level 5, 240 credits. That is the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
Full title: Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Applied Sciences
- Level
- Level 5Higher National Diploma
- Size
- 240credits
- Units
- 11 mandatoryplus 4 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
- 11
- Optional listed
- 4
- PSA units
- 2
- Unit 1 Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 2 Scientific Data Handling & Analysis 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 3 Regulation & Quality in the Applied Sciences 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 4 Cell Biology 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 5 Fundamentals of Chemistry 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 6 Analysis of Scientific Data & InformationPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 7 Research ProjectPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 8 Organic Chemistry 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 9 Inorganic Chemistry 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 10 Biochemistry 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 11 Genetics 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 12 Microbiology & Microbiological Techniques 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 13 Human Physiology 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 14 Pharmacology 15 Credits Optional
- Unit 15 Forensic Science 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 at each level.
Assessment at a glance
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
The qualification
- Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Applied Sciences.
- Level 5, 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
- 11 mandatory units and 4 optional units listed, including 2 Pearson Set Assignment units.
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
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.
- HNC Applied Sciences HNC (Level 4)
- HND Applied Sciences This course
- 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 HND (Level 5) 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.