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HND (Level 5)

BTEC Applied Sciences

Expert-level scientific principles, laboratory techniques, and research methods. A two-year Higher National Diploma (HND) providing 240 credits, equivalent to the first two years of a degree.

Ages 18+

Ages 18+

Higher Education

11 Mandatory Units

11 Mandatory Units

Core & Specialist

240 Credits

240 Credits

Two-Year Programme

HND Qualification

HND

Level 5 Diploma

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Expert Applied Sciences

Prime School's HND in Business builds on Level 3 foundations to develop strategic thinking, operational excellence, and leadership capabilities. Learners engage with real business challenges and prepare for senior roles or progression to HND and degree study.

Strategic Leadership

Strategic Leadership

Develop advanced leadership skills, organisational change management, and strategic decision-making frameworks.

Financial Management

Financial Management

Master financial analysis, budgeting, investment appraisal, and corporate finance principles for business growth.

Marketing Strategy

Marketing Strategy

Design integrated marketing strategies, digital campaigns, and brand positioning for competitive advantage.

Operations Management

Operations Management

Optimise business processes, supply chains, and quality systems for operational excellence.

CURRICULUM

Specification

The HND (240 credits) combines mandatory core units with specialist optional units. Your final option set is confirmed with your academic team based on career goals and progression plans.

PSA = Pearson Set Assignment Mandatory Optional Credits = Credit Value
Unit Title Credits Type
1 Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques 15 Mandatory
2 Scientific Data Handling & Analysis 15 Mandatory
3 Regulation & Quality in the Applied Sciences 15 Mandatory
4 Cell Biology 15 Mandatory
5 Fundamentals of Chemistry 15 Mandatory
6 Analysis of Scientific Data & Information PSA 15 Mandatory
7 Research Project PSA 15 Mandatory
8 Organic Chemistry 15 Mandatory
9 Inorganic Chemistry 15 Mandatory
10 Biochemistry 15 Mandatory
11 Genetics 15 Mandatory
12 Microbiology & Microbiological Techniques 15 Optional
13 Human Physiology 15 Optional
14 Pharmacology 15 Optional
15 Forensic Science 15 Optional
Aligned with Pearson BTEC International Level 5 Applied Sciences Specification
ASSESSMENT & SUPPORT

How You'll Excel at HND Level

Professional-level assignments, strategic projects, and industry mentorship — designed to build confident, career-ready graduates.

Assessment at a Glance

  • Professional reports, strategic plans, financial analyses, and business proposals.
  • PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
  • Real-world business scenarios and case study analysis.

Mentoring & Progression

  • Industry mentorship and professional development workshops.
  • Pathway planning for final-year degree progression and top-up degrees.
  • Career coaching, networking opportunities, and internship support.
CAREER PATHWAYS

Progression & Recognition

HND graduates progress to senior professional roles or direct entry to final-year degree programmes.

Professional Skills

  • Strategic planning, financial management, and leadership capabilities
  • Business analysis, project management, and operational excellence
  • Marketing strategy, brand management, and digital transformation
  • Legal compliance, risk management, and ethical business practice

University & Career

  • Direct entry to final-year degree programmes or top-up degrees
  • UK, EU, and international universities with credit recognition
  • Senior business roles, management positions, and consultancy careers
  • Entrepreneurship, business development, and strategic leadership roles

BTEC PATHWAY

Your HND qualification opens pathways to specialised degrees—choose biomedical science for healthcare innovation, forensic science for criminal investigation, or chemical science for research excellence.

Applied Sciences (Level 4) Applied Sciences (Level 5) Biomedical Science Degree

Applied Sciences (Level 4) --> Applied Sciences (Level 5) --> Biomedical Science Degree

Applied Sciences (Level 4) Applied Sciences (Level 5) Forensic Science Degree

Applied Sciences (Level 4) --> Applied Sciences (Level 5) --> Forensic Science Degree

Applied Sciences (Level 4) Applied Sciences (Level 5) Chemical Science Degree

Applied Sciences (Level 4) --> Applied Sciences (Level 5) --> Chemical Science Degree

Ready to Progress to Degree Study?

Speak with admissions to map your pathway from HND to HND and degree progression.

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