Quick facts
Qualification type | Level 3 Diploma |
Duration | 2 years |
Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
Entry requirements |
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including Science and maths or English |
Campus | West Suffolk College Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
Work placements | 50 hours |
Is it for me?
The Biomedical sector is thriving and is expected to create 50,000 jobs in the next five years, so the opportunities in this exciting and innovative field of applied science are practically endless.
By completing this course, you will gain a formal Science qualification that is equivalent to three A Levels and is recognised by universities as well as industry. It provides you with a pathway to an Apprenticeship with one of the many local employers West Suffolk College works with; or the ability to progress onto numerous university course. The course is open to those progressing from a relevant Level 2 qualifications, or GCSEs.
Delivered in our state-of-the-art laboratories and biomedical specialist rooms, you will learn how to work effectively and practice advanced scientific skills. In addition to the practical skills you will develop, you will also improve your employability through the enhancement of your communication, numeracy and information technology abilities.
What you'll learn
- Foundation Knowledge of Biology and Chemistry
- Mathematics including Data Handling and Statistical Processing
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Investigation of Disease and Infection
- Health and Safety in Science
- Work Experience, Employability and Careers
- Essential Skills including Problem Solving, Working with Others and ICT
Equipment required for the course
- Laboratory coat
Work experience placements
Work placement is 50 hours per year run through the academic year.
Assessment
This course includes both internal assessments and external exams.
Further study
- Environmental Science Extended Diploma Level 3
- Forensic and Criminal Investigation Extended Diploma Level 3
Example careers
- Biotechnologist
- Pharmacologist
- Scientific Laboratory Technician
- Genetic Counsellor
- Anatomical Pathology Technologist
- Biomedical Scientist
- Clinical Research
- Clinical Haematologist
- Clinical Immunology
- Forensic Scientist
- Microbiologist
- Physician Associate
- Toxicologist
- Occupational Hygienist
- Neuroscientist
- Crime Scene Investigator
Days & times
Starting September 2025