Overview
The Healthcare Science (HCS) Associate CertHE qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge, skills, behaviours and competencies necessary for a career as a HCS Associate within the NHS or private clinical laboratory workforce or related occupation in the HCS industry and provides learners with a clear pathway to employment.
The emphasis is on developing a broad scientific understanding in HCS and develop a range of theoretical and practical knowledge, as well as the technical skills needed for laboratory work in HCS laboratories (for example, blood sciences, cellular sciences, genomic sciences, and infection sciences) and application of the knowledge and skills to the study of real-world situations and challenges.
The CertHE qualification also provides learners with a recognised progression route to gain further learning at HE Level in the subject of biomedical science. Successful completion offers learners the opportunity to continue their studies to degree level by direct entry to the second year of LSBU’s BSc Biomedical Science degree
The course is delivered at our LSBU group college, London South Bank Technical College, from their brand-new facilities at Nine Elms campus in a supportive learning environment. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and technologies used in Healthcare Science research and benefit from current teaching and research expertise of the course team.
| ModeFull-time | Duration1 year | Start dateSeptember | Application code5951 | Application method Direct to LSBU |
Location
Entry Level Requirements
Want to start your course this September? call 0800 923 8888 for entry requirements.
In order to be considered for entry to the course, applicants will be required to have the following qualifications:
- GCSEs in Mathematics, English and Science at grade C or above (grade 4-9)
(or equivalent e.g. Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English, BTEC First Extended Certificate or Diploma in Applied Science).
- AND 64 UCAS points from a Level 3 science qualification
e.g. 2-3 A Levels in Biology/Chemistry/Math’s,
OR a T Level in Healthcare Science/Science (Pass),
OR a L3 BTEC Diploma/Extended Diploma in Applied Science (DM/MMP)
OR an Access to HE in Health & Human Science.
- Applications are welcomed from applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications listed above but have extensive appropriate work experience in the NHS sector or other Healthcare Science Services.
- Applicants may be required to attend an interview, complete an aptitude test in Math’s and/or provide a portfolio of work e.g. IBMS CoA part 1.
- If English is a second language, applicants also need IELTS 6 with no less than 5.5 in reading and writing (or equivalent e.g. TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic English language tests).
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Missing English and Maths qualifications?
If you do not have the required English and Maths qualifications needed to satisfy the entry requirements for this programme, we have courses available at our partner College that you can take to upskill in these areas. Find out more at South Bank College.
Advanced entry
If you have already completed some studies at another university, we may be able to consider you for advanced entry. Please see our advanced entry page for more information.
United Kingdom
£7500
Tuition fees for home students
International
£
Tuition fees for international students
Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.
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Full-time
full-time
CertHE Healthcare Science Associate (LSB Technical College) (FT) - Year 1
UK fee: £7500 International fee: £ AOS/LSBU code: 5951 Session code: 1FX00
For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.
Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by reading the UKCISA regulations.
See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 391 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 775 KB).
Possible fee changes
The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.
The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees in line with the RPIX measure of inflation up to 4 per cent.
Scholarships
We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.
International students
The course is not currently open to international students.
International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.
Home
| Mode Full-time | Duration 1 year | Start date September | Application code 5951 | Application method Direct to LSBU |
Accommodation
Once we have made you an offer, you can apply for accommodation. You can rent from LSBU and you’ll deal directly with the university, not third party providers. That means we can guarantee you options to suit all budgets, with clear tenancy agreements and all-inclusive rents that include insurance for your personal belongings, internet access in each bedroom and on-site laundry facilities.
Or, if you’d rather rent privately, we can give you a list of landlords – just ask our Accommodation Service.
Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.
Finance
You don't need to wait for a confirmed place on a course to start applying for student finance. Read how to pay your fees as an undergraduate student.
Prepare to start
Health and Care Professions Council. Guidance on Conduct and Ethics for students. Current Edition: Health and Care Professional Council
2) Ahmed, N., Glencross, H and Wang, Q. Biomedical Science Practice: Experimental and Professional Skills. Current Edition: Oxford University Press.
3) Institute of Biomedical Science. Get started in your biomedical science career eStudent - Institute of Biomedical Science (ibms.org)
Applicant events
After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course.
Enrolment
Before you start your course we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our Enrolment pages.
The HCS Associate CertHE qualification is offered as a full-time course delivered over one academic year. The course is composed of six core modules split over two semesters. Each module is 20 credits in size, with the overall qualification giving a total of 120 credits.
The L4 CertHE Healthcare Science Associate course aims to:
1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the core scientific knowledge and technical skills required to work in Healthcare Science laboratories.
2. Provide fundamental technical skills to form the basis of continuing professional development in the field of Healthcare Science.
3. Provide a combination of theory, practical skills, knowledge and behaviours suitable for the professional role of Healthcare Science Associate.
4. Develop an understanding of the NHS's organisation and role in society and how the Healthcare Science workforce contributes to patient pathways and ensures the patient's needs and wishes are central to their care.
5. Develop personal transferable skills that allow students to succeed in employment, career advancement, and/or further education.
6. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the professional and ethical standards required for employment in the NHS industry.
Semester 1
- Biochemistry
This module covers key chemical principles and related terminology in Biology through understanding of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. It examines the structure, types, functions, synthesis (anabolism), degradation (catabolism) and regulation of these biomolecules. The module draws pointers to cellular metabolic pathways into which these molecules feed and their control or regulation as well as interconnections between biochemical pathways with examples where deregulation of the metabolic pathways can result in disease. The module also covers the principles of basic organic and physical techniques used to detect these molecules underpinned by a related laboratory practical - Introduction to Genetics, Molecular & Cellular Biology
This module provides a foundation for further studies in all areas of biomedical science. It explores the structures and functions of DNA, RNA, proteins, and human genes, up to chromosome level. The cellular and tissue organisation of living organisms is introduced, as well as the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and the developmental stages in human body. Focus is on the basics of regulation of cell division, cell cycle, cell death, cell specialisation and cooperation, stem cells and their self-renewal and differentiation. Principles and modes of gene inheritance in human, and evolution is also discussed. All this is introduced in the context of human health and disease. In addition, basic knowledge of bioinformatics and current research approaches and methods for studying cells and manipulating genes are highlighted. - Pathological Science Practical Skills
This module is intended to develop students’ skills for real world challenges. Students are exposed to simulated work situations to give an overall appreciation of the total operation of the employer. The module provides the student with an opportunity to put into practice the skills taught in the module (Skills assessment – oral/practical viva). It tests the students’ ability to process the information that has been taught in other units and apply it to “real-life” situations.
The module is constructed around three main themes:
*Introduction to the role of pathology service in healthcare
*Introduction to the role of Specimen Reception in the Pathology service.
*Introduction to the principle of Quality Assurance in Medical Laboratories and Accreditation in UK.
*Introduction to the role of IBMS to Biomedical Scientists and Biomedical Science Support staff.
*Simulation/virtual training working in pathology
Semester 2
- Microbiology
This module introduces the students to the structure, physiology and biochemistry of microbial organisms including protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. Identification and classification of microorganisms, and importance of normal flora in the body and infection control is discussed. The historical significance of microbiological discoveries, fundamental concepts of microbiology and how these are applied, especially in relation to medical microbiology are highlighted. In parallel, students undertake a series of practical activities to develop Good Laboratory Practice, Aseptic Techniques, and an understanding of Standard Operating Procedures - Human Anatomy & Physiology
This module develops student knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. It explores the structure, function, neurological and hormonal control of the human body and its component parts. Major body systems are studied (musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, renal, urogenital, nervous, endocrine) and their relationship to each other are investigated. The physical and chemical principles that underlie physiological function and metabolic processes are reviewed. Overall, this will lead to appreciation of human functioning through understanding of physiological systems and their integration. - Employability Skills
This module introduces students to disciplines, skills and reflective practice essential to prepare learners for employment in Healthcare Science setting (Pathology Service). The module is designed to develop & improve students’ specific and generic employability skills and related knowledge. Learners are exposed to simulated ‘real-world’ practical scenarios, case studies and workshops. The module delivery is prepared in community-based settings to satisfy learners’ needs to enter employment and/or progress to additional learning opportunities in higher education/training including Biomedical Science.
Careers
Employability Service
At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:
- Free employability workshop and events for student all year round, more details can be found on our event section.
- Online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
- LSBU Careers Hub offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and support, guidance on future careers, as well as loads of career resources, connecting you with employers, exciting events, 1-1 support and relevant workshops.
Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.
The HSC Associate CertHE course allows learners to study a wide range of subjects in healthcare, pathological and biomedical science, with the goal of promoting an understanding of and developing the skills necessary for the role of HCS Associate in the NHS and private laboratory workforce.Development of employability skills are embedded within all modules, however, two key modules have been incorporated into the course structure (Employability Skills & Pathological Science Practical Skills) which focus on many of the knowledge, skills and behaviour standards required for the HCS Associate job role. The course is mapped to and fully meets the IfATE professional standards.The scientific modules integrated in the course structure enables students to pursue a laboratory career in one of four career choices in Biomedical Science (Life Sciences): Blood Sciences, Cellular Sciences, Genomic Sciences, and Infection Sciences. Typical jobs include posts such as Healthcare Science Assistant or Associate in an NHS hospital laboratory, or in a private clinical laboratory, and a range of healthcare laboratory jobs in clinical pathology, biochemistry, immunology, haematology, microbiology, infectious diseases, and human genomic projects.The HCS CertHE course also increases learners’ access to higher education by providing a academic pathway onto higher level qualifications. Learners who are successful on the CertHE qualification will be able to progress via direct entry onto the second year (Level 5) of LSBU’s BSc Biomedical Science degree course, offering a clear path for graduates who wish to progress to degree level.This programme also qualifies learners with a clear progression pathway to other higher programmes, i.e., BSc Biomedical Science Apprenticeship, graduate-entry NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) and Higher Specialist Scientist Training.These qualifications are linked to roles that have specific career structures in place and provide good opportunities for career progression to senior and specific roles in the future.
The course is composed of six core modules that cover the key technical skills and scientific discipline areas of pathological and Biomedical Science specialism in Healthcare Science. These modules are mapped to the Healthcare Science Associate standard as outlined by Institute of Apprenticeship and Technical Education and address the occupational duties carried out by employees in the occupation including the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) which are applied in the workplace and are derived directly from the duties.
Two work-based learning modules have been specifically designed to cover the competencies development for professional practice, ‘Employability Skills’ and ‘Pathological Science Practical Skills’. These modules provide learners with simulated work-based learning experience and develop specific and essential key skills and behaviours necessary for professional practice in the HCS workforce.
NHS employers contributed to the development of the HCS CertHE qualification, and learners benefit on the course from HCS industry guest speakers and visits to industry relevant laboratories.
Teaching and Assessment
The learning and teaching plan adopts a technical and academic learning approach where learners receive a wide range of relevant learning experiences. Formal on-site lectures help students gain information, understanding, and discipline-specific abilities, complemented by small group tutorials, workshops, online activities and practical sessions on campus. This learning is supported by the use of a VLE where learners can access course materials. This range of teaching and learning methods aims to engage students with different types of learning styles to embed inclusivity and to encourage the development of generic and transferable skills along with subject specific skills and knowledge. Activities are in alignment with the methods of assessment and aim to achieve attainment of the learning outcomes. The teaching and learning strategy effectively prepares students to successfully take part in the different types of assessment and learners receive feedback on their progress combined with adequate support and mentoring.
All modules offered at L4 provide the basic background in cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology, genetics and microbiology through a blend of keynote lectures, tutorials, group work, flipped learning, and problem-based learning activities. Lectures convey major elements of the subject-specific content and provide explanations of difficult concepts, where appropriate in the context of real world situations/challenges. They facilitate the development of students’ active listening skills and enable them to appreciate how information is structured and presented. Additionally, lectures make use of computer-based aids and multimedia, as well as encouraging interactive participation of students in groups.
Students will improve their comprehension of specific topics through on-site laboratory sessions held in combination with the theoretical components. Laboratory sessions provide students with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate competence in essential laboratory skills as well as data handling and interpretation skills. The laboratory-based practical’s predominantly use approaches that engage students through structured demonstrations, experiments, group work, and problem-based learning. These also aid in the development of discipline-specific abilities as well as personal transferable skills.
Tutorials, workshops, and case studies help students gain knowledge and understanding, and individual learning support, as well as discipline specific and personal transferable abilities. Modules exist to support the development of study and communication skills, to develop independent learning, self-management skills and effective team-working. Classroom activities are used to foster these abilities.
The work-based learning and training modules enable the development of learning objectives and cover many of the key knowledge, skills and behaviours required to prepare learners for the workplace. Through workplace learning models, there is also the potential for collaborative learning with healthcare professionals on-site. Furthermore, the development of further numerical, written, and oral communication, IT, and group working abilities is encouraged.
Many of the learning outcomes are developed through directed study, which includes directed reading of appropriate books and research papers. Students are expected to engage in independent learning as outlined in each of the module descriptor documents which will be made available on the Moodle sites. Where appropriate this learning will be guided by staff via tasks set in class and on the VLE. Students must regularly access the Moodle site for this course. They should download class/lecture material from the Moodle site, and complete recommended reading, before each lecture/class. The programme of teaching, learning and assessment for each module gives guidance on the textbook reading required for each week, the purpose of which is to encourage further reading both on and around the topic.
The course relies upon a diverse range of accessible formative and summative assessment types and methods vary according to module. This strategy is intended to ensure that students can work to their own strengths to meet the course learning outcomes. All assessments provided are supported with structured in-class briefings and availability of module leaders and other teaching staff for advice. Both formative and summative assessments are designed to develop skills in analysis, problem solving, debate, discussion, and evidence-based reflection. These types of skills are fundamental to IfATE standards, LSBU Curriculum Framework competency requirements and professional practice. The assessments are designed to assess the taught theoretical knowledge and practical skills as well as the ability to apply this theoretical knowledge to real world challenges through laboratory investigations and client-based interventions. Scenarios used for teaching and assessment are inclusive and diverse and use real-life examples where possible.
For the scientific based modules on the HCS L4 CertHE course, the summative assessment of theoretical knowledge is by means of two pieces of coursework per module including in-class tests, oral and poster presentations, and practical laboratory reports. These are required to assess and consolidate the basic subject-specific knowledge, skills and understanding. Learners are expected to demonstrate their practical skills through laboratory reports.
Alongside the taught materials, students compile an evidence portfolio of their training, through the Employability Skills and Pathological Science Practical Skills Modules. These modules are assessed via coursework only, provide work-based simulated learning and professional practice and assessment include a demonstration of practice and reflective report.
