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 5 or above including Science, Maths and English |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | 50 hours per year. |
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 numerous university courses as well as apprenticeships and employment. The course is open to those progressing from a relevant Level 2 qualification, or GCSEs.
Delivered in our state-of-the-art laboratories, 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, Chemistry and Physics
- Mathematics including data handling and statistical processing
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Analytical chemistry
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Investigation of disease and infection
- Health and safety in science
- Research skills
- Work experience, employability and careers
- Essential skills including problem solving, working with others and ICT
Equipment required for the course
You may borrow a laboratory coat and goggles for the duration of your course. Students are welcome to purchase their own if they prefer. A laptop would be beneficial but is not essential.
Work experience placements
Students are expected to complete 50 hours of work experience each year.
Assessment
Students will study thirteen units over two years. Four of the units are exam based and make up 42% of the course, the remaining units are assignment based.
Further study
The course can lead to many degree courses and professional qualifications. Previous students have gone on to study Biomedical Science, Biology, Marine Biology, Paramedic Science, Veterinary Science, Zoology, Biochemistry, Nursing and Environmental Science.
Example careers
- Biomedical Scientist
- Biotechnologist
- Pharmacologist
- Biologist
- Zoologist
- Scientific Laboratory Technician
- Genetic Counsellor
- Clinical Scientist/Researcher
- Forensic Scientist
- Microbiologist
- Toxicologist
- Neuroscientist
- Pharmaceutical Management
- Education
- Nursing
Days & times
Starting September 2025