Course Fact File
- Level 3
- Triple Programme
- T Level
- 2 Year Duration
Overview
Equivalent in size to three A Levels, this two-year T Level combines classroom theory, practical laboratory learning and a minimum 315-hour industry placement. Developed with employers, it prepares you for skilled employment, an apprenticeship or higher-level study in the science sector.
You will complete the Laboratory Sciences occupational specialism and build the technical competence expected in modern scientific workplaces.
What will you learn?
You will develop a broad understanding of biology, chemistry and physics, including cells and tissues, biological molecules, immunology, chemical reactions, analysis, electricity, waves, gas laws and radiation.
In the Laboratory Sciences specialism, you will learn to design scientific tasks, carry out laboratory techniques safely, follow standard operating procedures, apply good laboratory and manufacturing practice, collect reliable data, use statistical and digital tools, interpret results and improve scientific methods.
Who is the course aimed at?
This course is aimed at students who enjoy practical science and want to understand how scientific knowledge is applied in laboratories and industry. It is ideal if you are organised, analytical and careful, enjoy problem-solving and data, and are considering careers or further study in laboratory science, biomedical science, healthcare science, environmental science, research or scientific manufacturing.
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Entry Requirements
You must have a minimum of five GCSEs grades 9-4, including English Language and Maths. You just also have a minimum of grade 5 in GCSE Single Sciences or 5-5 in GCSE Combined Science.
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Experiences
You will spend at least 315 hours on an industry placement, gaining authentic experience of a scientific workplace. In college laboratories, you will plan and carry out investigations, prepare solutions, use microscopy and microbiological techniques, separate and analyse substances, calibrate equipment, complete risk assessments, follow COSHH requirements and standard operating procedures, and present experimental data using spreadsheets, graphs, reports and presentations.
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Progression
Successful students can progress to skilled employment, a science-related apprenticeship or higher education. Relevant routes include Laboratory Technician and Laboratory Scientist apprenticeships, a Level 5 Technician Scientist apprenticeship, HNC or HND study, or degrees such as Biomedical Science, Applied Science, Environmental Science, Agricultural Science and other laboratory-based science programmes. University entry requirements vary and should be checked carefully.
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Outcomes
By the end of the course, you will have developed threshold competence for the Laboratory Sciences specialism, including the ability to plan and perform scientific tasks safely, produce reliable experimental data, analyse and communicate results, and review methods to improve quality. Potential career destinations include laboratory research scientist, biomedical scientist and medical laboratory assistant, with further training or study required for some professional roles.
