How to become a healthcare science assistant
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could take a college course to help improve your chances of finding work. Courses include:
- Level 2 Certificate or Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science
- T Level in Healthcare Science
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You can do an intermediate healthcare science assistant apprenticeship.
If you have A levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, you could do a healthcare science associate higher apprenticeship.
The Academy of Healthcare Science has more information about apprenticeships.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Volunteering
You'll find it helpful to get some paid or voluntary work experience before you apply for jobs or training.
You can also find volunteering opportunities near you through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. You'll usually need:
- good literacy, numeracy and IT skills
- an understanding of medical terminology
- some experience of working in a healthcare or lab setting
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join organisations like the Academy for Healthcare Science for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a healthcare science assistant from: