A scientist can carry out a range of technical and scientific activities which may include laboratory-based investigations and scientific experimentation in their specialist field.
The Level 6 Laboratory Scientist apprenticeship is the ideal next step for those who are keen to pursue a career in science and would like to gain a highly recognised qualification from our award-winning Kent Business School.
Benefits of the Programme
The Laboratory Scientist apprenticeship is an innovative programme that helps individuals wanting to progress their career within SME and global organisations, covering relevant roles in the life science supply chain from research through development and into manufacturing.
The programme is offered via blended learning – a mixture of online and face-to-face learning. Much of the programme is centred around work-based learning and projects, which means as an apprentice, you will be adding value to your organisation as you work through your Master’s degree.
In addition to on- and off-the-job training, you will be supported by a dedicated Apprenticeship Advisor.
Molly Robinson, Laboratory Scientist - Applied Bioscience. Read Molly's case study here.
Qualifications
Upon successful completion, the apprentice will have achieved a Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) in either chemical or bioscience.
Duration and commitment
We are now offering two options for the Level 6 programme. There is a 54-month delivery with 6 months for End-Point Assessment (EPA) or a shorter 45-month delivery (still with 6 months for EPA) depending on the employers’ preference. The 45-month model has combined two units which will be delivered together as one 30-credit module, whereas the 54-month model just builds in extra revision and study time for apprentices.
Line managers are expected to support apprentices in their day-to-day job roles and attend the progress reviews with the Apprenticeship Advisor every 8-12 weeks to sign off the apprentice's skills and behaviours in preparation for the end-point assessment.
Entry requirements
At least five GCSE passes (or equivalent), including English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 or above. They are also required to have achieved at least two subjects at A Level (or equivalent), including Chemistry / Biology. Alternatively, applicants must have completed a Level 3 Laboratory Technical Apprenticeship in a relevant science discipline.
Modules
Year 1
Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:
- Applied Chemistry
- Basic Laboratory/Industry Skills
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Microbiology
Year 2
Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:
- Advanced Laboratory/Industry Skills
- Business Improvement
- GXP (Business Module)
- Human Physiology and Disease
- Metabolism and Enzymology
Year 3
Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:
- Applied Microbiology
- Company-based Project
- Infection and Immunity
- Pharmacology
Year 4
Apprentices take the following compulsory modules:
- Drug Discovery and Development
- Research Methods
Apprentices also take three optional modules from the list below:
- Advanced Immunology and Microbiology
- Advanced Therapeutic Agents
- Biopharmaceuticals and Gene Therapy
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Nanomedicine
Year 5
Apprentices take the following compulsory module:
- Company Based Project
Fees and Funding
The cost of the programme is £27,000 per apprentice and this can be paid for from the apprenticeship levy or by government co-investment funding which covers up to 95% of the fees. There is also the cost of accommodation and travel for Summer Schools. This should be funded by the employer and is not payable from apprenticeship levy or government funding.
Start Dates
We offer start dates in September, October, January and April for this programme. The cut-off for applications is normally one month prior to the course starting.
Contact Us
If you would like more information on the Laboratory Scientist Degree apprenticeship, please book onto one of our upcoming Information Sessions or email us at recruitapprenticeships@kent.ac.uk
Related Kent programmes of study
There are two academic programmes that underpin the Laboratory Scientist Standard (Level 6):