Applied Science (Bioscience) - Foundation Degree

Essentials

Duration: 2 Years Full-time
Start date: 14th September 2026
End date: 2nd June 2028

Fees are payable annually.
The fees for year 2 may be subject to change.

Find out more about eligibility for reduced course fees, payment options and financial support available in our fees and funding page.

Course Content

The Year 1 modules include: 

• Academic Skills & Statistics
• Chemistry and Biology for Bioscience
• Chemistry and Pharmacology
• Developing Skills for Industry – Laboratory Skills
• Professional Practice and GxP
• Physiology and Anatomy

The Year 2 modules include: 

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Genetics & Molecular Biology
• Microbiology & Immunology
• Analytical Methodologies.
• Work Based Learning (WBL1 and WBL2)

Note: Both Worked Based Learning placements will consist of a total of 160 hours of placement (320 hours in total).

This course is validated and awarded by Ulster University.

Course Aims

Ulster University Foundation Degree in Applied Science (Bioscience) is a two-year, vocationally focused program designed for careers in laboratory-based industries or further study. It aims to provide a vocationally relevant science education for those wishing to follow careers in a wide range of science disciplines, producing competent individuals to meet local, regional and national needs by providing a good mix of scientific theory along with the practical skills necessary for further study or employment within a range of science disciplines.

Through a varied and well-planned curriculum delivered by knowledgeable and supportive staff, knowledge and understanding is developed through lectures, practical classes, group discussion and independent research. Cognitive skills are developed through researching information, statistical analysis, effective communication, critical analysis, evaluation and self-evaluation. The programme is designed to be practical, therefore, applied skills are developed through laboratory classes and simulations. Transferable skills are crucial to your progression and employability.

This course aims to develop these skills through presentations, scientific writing, analysis and interpretation of results, group work, problem solving, research and critical evaluation; all of which will enhance personal development and career prospects.

Special Features

Year 2 of the course requires successful applicants to complete over 320 hours of industrial/ clinical work placement. These placements can be in any laboratory setting (e.g. water/ food testing, microbiology lab etc.) or can be completed in a clinical setting (e.g. hospital laboratory). Student performance will be assessed as part of both Worked Based Learning 1 and 2 modules.

Assessment Methods

• Continual assessment incorporating assignment writing and assessed scientific practical’s
• Module exams and class tests
   

UK Requirements

• 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A levels (at least one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Health & Life Sciences or equivalent), National Awards (in a science related subject) or a Pass in Access Diploma with an approved science module at 55% or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications. Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications.
• In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language (or equivalent) and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).

ROI Requirements

48 UCAS points consisting of passes in five approved subjects to include a minimum of 3 at Higher Leaving Cert Pass (Grade D/H6), one of which should be in Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths or equivalent) and OLC (Grade 04 or above) to include Maths and English.

Where students wish to have prior education and/or experience taken into account, in lieu of meeting the full course entry requirements, they should contact the relevant Course Director or Admissions. APEL applications must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the start date of the programme. More details can be found in the APEL Policy.

Please note, all applicants to the programme will be required to attend an interview.

Note: It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s admission and progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College. 

Students from this course can progress to a range of related degree programmes at Ulster University such as Year 3 of BSc (Hons) Biology, Year 2 of: MSci Pharmaceutical Biosciences; BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (DPP) (Pathology); BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (DPP (Industry); BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (FT & PT); BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition and BSc (Hons) Food & Nutrition; or can enter Year 1 of a wide range of degree courses. Progression to other Universities at various points of entry may also be possible.

Potential Career Opportunities: After completing this programme, you may also explore employment opportunities in this field which could include Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Analyst, Biotechnology Technician, Research Assistant, Environmental Health & Safety, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Pharmacy Technician, Dietetic Assistant, Cardiology Technician, Audiology Technician, and Assistant Grade Professionals.