Applied Sciences (Chemistry)

The Pearson-awarded HND in Applied Sciences (Chemistry) provides a robust foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry. Designed to meet industry standards, the programme will equip you with the skills and knowledge for diverse careers in laboratories, research, pharmaceuticals, and quality assurance.
Our exceptional facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories at both the Queens Drive (QD) campus and the Institute of Technology (IoT) North Star Campus, ensuring you will have access to specialised equipment to fully support their learning. This qualification not only develops technical expertise but also fosters professional behaviours highly valued by employers and higher education institutions. Graduates will be well-prepared to launch their careers or continue their academic journey.
The course employs a variety of teaching strategies to cater to different learning styles:

• Interactive Lectures and Seminars: Build theoretical understanding.

• Laboratory Sessions: Develop hands-on practical skills in a professional environment.

• Group Work and Projects: Enhance teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

• Work-Based Learning: Connect academic knowledge with real-world applications.

• Virtual Learning Environment (VLE): Provide online resources, recorded lectures, and discussion forums.

This blended approach ensures students gain both the technical expertise and the professional skills necessary for a successful career in the applied sciences.

The HND consists of 240 credits, including core and specialist units across Levels 4 and 5:
Level 4 (120 credits)
Unit 1: Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques (15 credits) Unit 2: Scientific Data Handling Approaches and Techniques (15 credits)
Unit 3: Regulation and Quality in the Applied Sciences (15 credits)
Unit 7: Inorganic Chemistry (15 credits)
Unit 8: Organic Chemistry (15 credits)
Unit 9: Physical Chemistry (15 credits)
Unit 15: Introduction to Polymer Materials and Properties (15 credits)
Unit 64: Work-based Investigation (15 credits)

Level 5 (120 credits)
Unit 27: Analysis of Scientific Data and Information (15 credits)
Unit 28: Applied Sciences Research Project (Pearson-set) (15 credits)
Unit 65: Further Analytical Chemistry (15 credits)
Unit 36: Aromatic and Carbonyl Compounds (15 credits)
Unit 37: Solid State and Transition Metal Chemistry (15 credits)
Unit 38: Spectroscopy, Surface Chemistry and Equilibrium (15 credits)
Unit 55: Nanomaterials and Their Technology (15 credits)
Unit 61: Science Laboratory Management (15 credits)

The sequencing of the units is designed to deliver the required knowledge and skills incrementally and set solid foundations at both level 4 and 5, with feedback provided at every stage to guide student improvement. The programme utilises diverse assessment techniques to ensure students develop a range of skills, including:

Exams: Test theoretical knowledge and understanding.
Practical Assessments: Evaluate laboratory and technical skills.
Written Assignments and Lab Reports: Foster critical thinking and the application of concepts.
Presentations and Proposals: Strengthen communication and professional skills.
Research Projects: Integrate learning across modules through real-world problem-solving tasks.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS