**why study this course?** the learning experience is a combination of laboratory based training, field work, theoretical knowledge and e-learning. the programme incorporates a number of talks by experts from the industry and includes visits to industries, university laboratories, hospital laboratories and conservation areas. this programme is delivered using a range of on-campus and online synchronous and asynchronous approaches. **about the course** the hnc in applied sciences (biology) prepares you for employment in the science industry and provides you with the opportunity to gain entry to relevant degree programmes. this programme is delivered using a range of on-campus and online synchronous and asynchronous approaches. **how will it make me more employable?** the hnc in applied sciences (biology) provides a nationally recognised qualification offering career progression and professional development for those already in employment and provides opportunities to progress to higher education. along with the vocational skills you will also develop employability skills through workshops such as teamwork, innovation and problem solving. you are encouraged to take up work placement in hospital labs, civil service labs, industries and educational sectors. it is the responsibility of the student to organise this work placement. **where will it take me?** successful completion of the hnc in applied sciences (biology) prepares you for employment in the science industry and may provide you with the opportunity to complete a further year leading to the level 5 hnd in applied sciences (biology). successful completion of the hnc may also enable you to progress to further study on the first year of a degree course, for example bsc(hons) microbiology and biological science at queen's university belfast and applied biochemical science. with further study it may also lead to; bsc (hons) physiotherapy; bsc (hons) optometry and bsc(hons) radiography at ulster university; bsc(hons) applied biological sciences and marine biology at ulster university and; bsc(hons) environmental science degrees.