Course Overview
Attendance
* Price per 20-credit module
Course summary
Aimed at Healthcare Science Assistants and Associate Practitioners, this course gives students the opportunity to study part-time to get a qualification in line with current and future healthcare science workforce requirements.
Successful students will be qualified to progress into an appropriate BSc Honours programme. The course combines biomedical science and physiology undergraduate modules with work-based learning modules.
You'll start the course with a study skills module to prepare you for online learning and a range of general course requirements. You'll study modules covering human anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and disease investigation.
The course also contains a substantial element of work-based learning aligned to your professional responsibilities in your employing laboratories.
Your coursework will be assessed online, but you'll need to attend University for formal exams.
Top reasons to study with us
- A flexible approach – flexibility for both students and employers enables a balance between learning and meeting workplace commitments
- A supportive environment – regular online support from tutors and technical advisers ensures students achieve their best, and regular accredited workshops support our work-based tutors
- A varied learning experience – combining e-learning, short blocks of face-to-face teaching at the University and substantial work-based learning provide a varied and balanced learning experience
Course structure
Assessments for the course will be undertaken online throughout the course and by attending the University at the end of each academic year.
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course.
Subjects of study:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Functional Anatomy
- Human Physiology
- Practice-Based Learning
- Professional Development in Science (DL Version)
Credit Level 4
Subjects of study:
- Advanced Practice-Based Learning
- Applied Pathobiology
- Delivering Healthcare
- Infection and Immunity
- Medical Genetics and Genomics
Credit Level 5
Professional recognition
After completing the course, students will be able to transfer to Year 3 of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) accredited Applied Biomedical Science BSc Honours.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Open days
Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
Can't attend? See more open events
Careers
Study while working
This course gives Healthcare Science Assistants and Associate Practitioners the opportunity to study part-time to get a qualification in line with current and future healthcare science workforce requirements.
Work-based learning
This course features work-based learning aligned to your professional responsibilities in employing laboratories.
Transferable skills
You'll develop key transferable skills that will benefit you throughout your career.
Career development
Featuring work-based learning aligned to students' professional responsibilities in employing laboratories, this course offers students the opportunity to attain a qualification in line with current and future healthcare science workforce requirements and is a suitable qualification for Agenda for Change, Band 4 Associate Practitioner posts, for those employed in healthcare science.
Those who successfully complete the course may choose to progress to a full BSc award in Applied Biomedical Science, which meets the requirements for direct application to the Health and Care Professions Council Register for Biomedical Scientists.
For diagnostic and non-diagnostic settings, this award meets the education requirements for Registered Scientist applications to the Institute of Science and Technology.
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.
Course Leader
Dr Nilu Kannangara
Lecturer
Nilu is a molecular and biochemical parasitologist and Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, with a background in Biochemistry and Molecular biology. She is course leader for the Biomedical and Physiological Sciences FDSc and co-course leader of Applied Biomedical Science BSc (Apprenticeships).
Nilu is passionate about teaching and has over 11 years of experience on a range of degree programmes in Biomedical, Biological, Life and Health Sciences and foundation degrees. She is a fellow of the Higher Education Academy and Institute of Biomedical Science. Nilu is an active member of HUCBMS and ESLTIS and involved in knowledge exchange and networking activities. She is keen in developing and widening participation with industry, NHS and community aligned with the sustainable development goals.
Enjoy your science studies, do your best, be proud of your achievements and most importantly know that this is just the start of a lifetime of inspiration.
Course Team
The tutors delivering and supporting this course have a wealth of experience in academic and work-based teaching and with the use of technology to enhance learning.
Why study this course?
A flexible approach
The course offers flexibility for both students and employers to enable a balance between learning and meeting workplace commitments.
A supportive environment
You'll benefit from regular online support from tutors and technical advisers.
University-based lab learning
One week per year of University-based lab learning is included on the course, ensuring students develop the skills they need to succeed.
Entry Requirements
- A levels – One A Level pass in a related science subject
- International Baccalaureate – N/A
- BTEC Extended Diploma – Applied Science
- BTEC Diploma – Applied Science
- Access – Access course in Science
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
You must normally have completed a full Level 3 qualification in line with the University of Westminster’s admissions regulations.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
Equivalent qualifications and relevant professional experience will also be considered.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
- A levels – One A Level pass in a related science subject
- International Baccalaureate – N/A
- BTEC Extended Diploma – Applied Science
- BTEC Diploma – Applied Science
- Access – Access course in Science
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
You must normally have completed a full Level 3 qualification in line with the University of Westminster’s admissions regulations.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
Equivalent qualifications and relevant professional experience will also be considered.
More information
Learn new skills
Learn a new language
From Arabic to Spanish, you can learn a new language alongside your degree with our Polylang programme.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Creative Enterprise Centre offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your startup projects.
Gain extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: Tuition fees have yet to be confirmed for this course (Price per 20-credit module)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: Tuition fees have yet to be confirmed for this course (Price per 20-credit module)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2022/23
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring.
Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.
For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
Your Westminster
Book an open day. Order a prospectus. Sign up for newsletters.
We use cookies to ensure the best experience on our website.
By accepting you agree to cookies being stored on your device.
We use cookies to ensure the best experience on our website.
Some of these cookies are essential to the running of the site, while others help us to improve your experience.
See our cookies privacy policyFunctional
Functional cookies enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility.
Always on Always onAnalytics
Analytics cookies help us improve our website based on user needs by collecting information, which does not directly identify anyone.
Marketing
Marketing cookies send information on your visit to third parties so that they can make their advertising more relevant to you when you visit other websites.