New qualifications in Healthcare Science

The new qualifications are:

• Pearson BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Healthcare Science
• Pearson BTEC Level 4 Certificate in Healthcare Science.

These qualifications have been developed as a result of the Modernising Scientific Careers project, established by the Department of Health to ensure that the healthcare science workforce will be fit to respond to future scientific and technological advances.

Both qualifications are ideal for those who are new to roles in healthcare science or aiming for a career in the sector, particularly in the following three areas:

Biological (life) science

Those applying biological (life) sciences may work in pathology and genetics clinical laboratories where they analyse blood, tissues, cells and other body fluids, describing abnormalities and interpreting what this means for people who are ill.

Physiological science

Those applying physiological sciences work in services which assess the functioning of major organ systems such as the heart, brain and lungs, and the impact that disease or treatment may have on them.

Physics and bioengineering specialisms

Those applying physics and bioengineering may work in medical physics, where they ensure that x-rays and other imaging services such as MRI and ultrasound are safe to use on people.  

Pearson BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Healthcare Science

Learners will complete the following 5 units totalling 15 credits:

1. Healthcare Science Services
   
2. Employee Rights, Responsibilities and Personal Development in Healthcare Science Working in Partnership in Healthcare Science
   
3. Investigating, Treating and Managing Human Disease and Disorder 
4. Working Safely in the Healthcare Science Environment.  

This is a work-based qualification that combines competence and technical knowledge to give learners the practical competencies, technical skills and sector-related knowledge they need to be able to carry out their job effectively.  

Pearson BTEC Level 4 Certificate in Healthcare Science

Learners will complete the following 5 units totalling 15 credits:

1. Using the Scientific Method in Healthcare Science Research
2. Roles and Responsibilities in Healthcare Science
3. Partnership Working in Healthcare Science
4. Safety, Security and Wellbeing in the Healthcare Science Environment
5. Investigating, Treating and Managing Human Disease and Disorders.  

This is a BTEC Professional qualification.

Both qualifications are assessed internally though centre-devised assessments.

For more information, please contact karen.lawlor@pearson.com