University Centre South Devon – South Devon College
Bioscience
Course Summary
This foundation degree is the perfect preparation for a career in the rapidly evolving and expanding life sciences sector, which continues to be a growth area in both the UK and the EU. As the Government continues to invest in this sector, intending the UK to become a global hub for life sciences, there have never been more opportunities for graduates in this field to excel.
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited foundation degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
You will receive dedicated support from our experienced teaching team, and be working in our finest laboratories. The course considers both the theory and practice linked to a range of study and job areas in the biosciences sector, preparing you either for further specialist study or progression into employment upon completion. The curriculum has been designed to develop you into a well-rounded and skilled practitioner, focusing not just on the theoretical knowledge you will require, but also necessary skills such as laboratory management and health and safety.
The course has a strong focus on employability, and as part of the accreditation you will be required to gain 80 hours of biosciences industry-related work experience with an employer in South Devon. You will be well supported in finding an appropriate employer to work with. During this time you may support day-to-day operations, or be involved in project work. This experience will help you identify the area of biosciences that interests you most, develop your practical, research and communication skills, and also increase your employability by securing a vocational reference and building strong links in the local industry.
Level 4 (Year 1 for full-time students) develops the underpinning knowledge and principles associated with the core concepts of biology including cell biology, microbiology, genetics, evolution and biochemistry as well as a strong focus on the development of your practical laboratory skills.
Level 5 (Year 2 for full-time students) introduces new topics such as immunology and human physiology whilst further deepening your understanding of cells and their adaptations, molecular genetics and biotechnology and evolution and biodiversity. Your researching, practical and analytical skills will also be developed by carrying out a research project.
The full-time and part-time course has one start point in September.
Course Details - Modules
Year One Modules
Laboratory techniques
Cell biology
Biochemistry Toolkit
Microbiology
Genetics, genetic analysis and evolution
Professional practice (including work experience)
Year 2 Modules
Cells and adaptations
Molecular genetics, biotechnology and cancer
Biodiversity and speciation
Human physiology
Immunity
Research project
Work experience
Course Details – Assessment Method
Assessment Methods are not listed for this Course.
Course Details – Professional Bodies
Royal Society of Biology
How to Apply
26 January This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application Codes
Course code:
C900
Institution code:
S32
Campus Name:
UCSD
Campus code:
Points of Entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
Year 1
Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry (Year 2 and Beyond)
Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry are not listed for this Course.
International applicants
Standard Qualification Requirements
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course