Level 3 Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science

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  • Course Overview
  • Entry Requirements
  • Course Fees

This BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science is intended for post-16 learners who aim to progress to higher education to study courses such as: Pharmacy, Paramedic Sciences, Biosciences or Physiotherapy, and ultimately on to employment. If you are interested in the application of science in the biological or medical field, then this maybe the study programme for you. In addition to your main programme, you will also engage in activities to develop your English, Maths and employability skills. The course is a mixture of theory and practical and is aimed at providing you with the employability skills in preparation for progression into this industry. You will develop scientific analytical-thinking skills through the use of chemical, physical and biological techniques. You will remain impartial, provide scientific justification for analysis and present facts through detailed investigations

What will I learn?

In your first year, you will complete the BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Biomedical Science. You then have the opportunity to progress onto the second year of study to complete the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science (equivalent to three A Levels). The full study programme consists of 13 varied and interesting units of study, providing an intriguing mix of the sciences. It will allow you to understand the inner workings of the human body, apply microbiological techniques and be confident in genetic techniques. Units include:

  • Principles and Applications of Science
  • Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
  • Science Investigation Skills
  • Laboratory Techniques and their Application
  • Investigative Project
  • Contemporary Issues in Science
  • Physiology of Human Body Systems
  • Genetics and Genetic Engineering
  • Diseases and Infections
  • Biomedical Science
  • Microbiology and Microbiologic Techniques
  • Biological Molecules and Metabolic Pathways

How will I be assessed?

The study programme consists of internally and externally assessed units. Externally assessed units allow you to present what you have learned in the unit. They can be challenging, but give you the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and understanding, or your skills in a direct way. These will consist of an exam or completing a vocational task in a limited timeframe. The internally assessed units involve completing a series of assignments, set and marked by your lecturer. The assignments allow you to demonstrate learning in a number of ways, from written reports to a video recording. Each of these tasks are graded as pass, merit or distinction which lead to an overall grade at the end of two years’ study when combined with grades from other units.

Home study?

You will be expected to spend additional study hours in the Learning Hub in order to successfully complete this programme. You will also need to complete homework and independent research on a regular basis in order to build up and further enhance your knowledge. It is expected that you will need to spend approximately 6 hours a week on your coursework outside of your normal class time.

Are there any work experience opportunities?

Work experience helps you understand the types of roles available in industry and the skills required to gain employment in the sector. During each year of the study programme, you will be expected to complete 20 hours work experience.

Are there any enrichment opportunities?

While studying at Coventry College, you may be given the opportunity to engage with enrichment activities including:

  • trips and visits including Sanger Institute, Body Worlds and the World Skills Fair
  • guest speakers from universities and industry

What is my progression?

This qualification is primarily designed to support your progression to employment after further study at university. However, it also supports you if you choose to progress directly to employment, as the transferable knowledge and skills will give you an advantage when applying for a range of industry training programmes and/or Higher Apprenticeships in areas such as Laboratory Technician or Pharmacy Technician. University qualifications include; Pharmacy, Paramedic Sciences, Biosciences, Physiotherapy, Radiography and Biochemistry.

This BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science is intended for post-16 learners who aim to progress to higher education to study courses such as: Pharmacy, Paramedic Sciences, Biosciences or Physiotherapy, and ultimately on to employment. If you are interested in the application of science in the biological or medical field, then this maybe the study programme for you. In addition to your main programme, you will also engage in activities to develop your English, Maths and employability skills. The course is a mixture of theory and practical and is aimed at providing you with the employability skills in preparation for progression into this industry. You will develop scientific analytical-thinking skills through the use of chemical, physical and biological techniques. You will remain impartial, provide scientific justification for analysis and present facts through detailed investigations

What will I learn?

In your first year, you will complete the BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Biomedical Science. You then have the opportunity to progress onto the second year of study to complete the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science (equivalent to three A Levels). The full study programme consists of 13 varied and interesting units of study, providing an intriguing mix of the sciences. It will allow you to understand the inner workings of the human body, apply microbiological techniques and be confident in genetic techniques. Units include:

  • Principles and Applications of Science
  • Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
  • Science Investigation Skills
  • Laboratory Techniques and their Application
  • Investigative Project
  • Contemporary Issues in Science
  • Physiology of Human Body Systems
  • Genetics and Genetic Engineering
  • Diseases and Infections
  • Biomedical Science
  • Microbiology and Microbiologic Techniques
  • Biological Molecules and Metabolic Pathways

How will I be assessed?

The study programme consists of internally and externally assessed units. Externally assessed units allow you to present what you have learned in the unit. They can be challenging, but give you the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and understanding, or your skills in a direct way. These will consist of an exam or completing a vocational task in a limited timeframe. The internally assessed units involve completing a series of assignments, set and marked by your lecturer. The assignments allow you to demonstrate learning in a number of ways, from written reports to a video recording. Each of these tasks are graded as pass, merit or distinction which lead to an overall grade at the end of two years’ study when combined with grades from other units.

Home study?

You will be expected to spend additional study hours in the Learning Hub in order to successfully complete this programme. You will also need to complete homework and independent research on a regular basis in order to build up and further enhance your knowledge. It is expected that you will need to spend approximately 6 hours a week on your coursework outside of your normal class time.

Are there any work experience opportunities?

Work experience helps you understand the types of roles available in industry and the skills required to gain employment in the sector. During each year of the study programme, you will be expected to complete 20 hours work experience.

Are there any enrichment opportunities?

While studying at Coventry College, you may be given the opportunity to engage with enrichment activities including:

  • trips and visits including Sanger Institute, Body Worlds and the World Skills Fair
  • guest speakers from universities and industry

What is my progression?

This qualification is primarily designed to support your progression to employment after further study at university. However, it also supports you if you choose to progress directly to employment, as the transferable knowledge and skills will give you an advantage when applying for a range of industry training programmes and/or Higher Apprenticeships in areas such as Laboratory Technician or Pharmacy Technician. University qualifications include; Pharmacy, Paramedic Sciences, Biosciences, Physiotherapy, Radiography and Biochemistry.

At least 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including Science, English and/or maths or a Level 2 Applied Science qualification at Merit or above plus English/ maths at Grade 4 or equivalent. Learners with lower grades or relevant experience will be considered subject to additional advice and guidance from a member of the curriculum team.

This course is free for 16-18yrs; for 19-23yrs, course is free if you have not achieved a full Level 2 qualification.

For all other students fees apply:
Course fee £7395; Exam Fee TBC

If you're aged 19+ you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of the course.

Find information about Advanced Learner Loans and make an application.

Course Details

Length of study:
2 years

Starting:
September

Term dates

Study campus:
City

Study option(s):
Full time

Course level:
Level 3

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If you are aged 16-18 and applying for a full-time programme, then you will not have to pay for your course. If you are aged 19+ then there may be a fee for your course.

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Programme Ref: COV_FE_1898 Last updated: February 19, 2024 1:28 pm