Access to Higher Education Diploma: Biosciences

As a biochemist you would investigate the chemical processes that take place inside all living things from viruses and bacteria to people. If you are interested in the natural world and would enjoy looking at life at a smaller, molecular level then, this could be a job you would enjoy.

You will need a high level of skill and ability in science and be good at solving problems. Working accurately and having an eye for detail will help you carry out work like exploring samples under a microscope.

To become a biochemist you will need to have a relevant degree. Some employers may expect you to have, or be working towards a postgraduate qualification such as an MSc or PhD. ?? 

As a biologist you would study living things like plants and animals and the world they live in. If you are interested in the natural world and enjoy practical science then there could be opportunities for you as a biologist.

To become a biologist you will need to have an enquiring mind and good problem solving skills. You will also need to work accurately and pay close attention to detail.

Most employers will expect you to have a relevant degree and a master’s qualification. Some employers might also want you to have, or be working towards, a PhD.

As a biotechnologist you’ll use your scientific knowledge of plants, animals, microbes, biochemistry and genetics to find solutions to problems and develop new products. You may work in different areas such as agriculture, the environment, the food industry or medicine. If you have an interest in science this career may offer the opportunities you’re looking for.

You’ll need an enquiring mind and have good problem-solving skills. You’ll also need a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

To work as a biotechnologist you’ll need a degree in a relevant scientific subject.

Microbiologists use microscopes to study the biology of micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and algae. You may work in a variety of different sectors, from healthcare to agriculture. If you're a logical thinker with an enquiring mind, and have an interest in the biological sciences, this job could be ideal for you.

You'll need to be good at solving problems and working accurately. Good communication skills will help you get on well with the rest of your team and share your scientific findings.

Most new microbiologists have a degree in a relevant subject such as microbiology, biology, or another biological science with a strong focus on microbiology. Some employers may also prefer you to have a relevant postgraduate qualification and some work experience.

Biomedical scientists test samples from patients to support doctors and healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. If you enjoy science and you are interested in medicine and health care, this could be a great job choice for you.

As a biomedical scientist you will need to have an enquiring mind and be good at solving problems. You will need to be able to concentrate for long periods of time and have good attention to detail.

To work as a biomedical scientist you will need a BSc (Hons) degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). You will also need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

As a research scientist, you would plan and carry out experiments and investigations to broaden scientific knowledge in a range of areas, from life sciences to industrial processes. If you have an enquiring mind, and would like to be at the forefront of scientific discovery, this could be the career for you.

You’ll need to be good at solving problems, and collecting and interpreting data. You would also need to have the patience and the persistence to carry on when you don’t get the results you expect.

To get into this job you would need a degree and usually a postgraduate qualification, such as a PhD.

Ecologists study the relationship between plants, animals and their environment. The aim of their work could range from balancing the needs of the environment to coming up with ideas for land management. If you are interested in the natural world and the environment, this job could be ideal for you.

To do this job you will need to be able to carry out research and understand data. You’ll also need to manage projects and have great presentation and report writing skills.

To become an ecologist you would normally need a degree. Some employers may expect you to have or be working towards a postgraduate qualification such as a master’s or PhD.

Pharmacists provide expert advice on the use and supply of drugs and medicines. As a pharmacist your work would include checking prescriptions, dispensing medicines and making sure that laws controlling medicines are followed.

If you are interested in science and healthcare, this career could be for you. To do this job you will need a high level of scientific understanding and ability. You will also need to be responsible and security-conscious.

Before you can work as a pharmacist, you will need to complete a five-year programme of education and training. This includes a four-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree and a one-year pre-registration training course in a pharmacy.

As a midwife you would care for and support pregnant women and their babies, before, during and after childbirth. If you would like taking care of the mother's welfare, and the responsibility of helping to bring babies into the world, this could be the perfect career for you.

To qualify as a registered midwife you need to complete a degree in midwifery. You will also need to agree to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Courses take at least three years to complete.

To be a midwife you need excellent communication and 'people' skills. You need the ability to inspire trust and confidence. And you will also need a calm manner to deal with stressful situations.