How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- an NHS training programme for non-graduates
University
You can do a degree to start your training as a clinical scientist.
Subjects include:
- life sciences
- biology or biochemistry
- genetics
- biomedical science
- medical physics
After completing your degree, you can apply for the NHS Scientific Training Programme (STP). During the 3-year programme, you'll combine employment in the NHS with study for a postgraduate master's degree.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You could apply for a place on a higher or degree apprenticeship, such as:
- Healthcare Science Associate Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Healthcare Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Clinical Science Level 7 Postgraduate Apprenticeship
When you finish your apprenticeship, you can apply to join one of the NHS training programmes and continue your training to become a clinical scientist.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 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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Other Routes
If you do not have a degree, you could apply to join the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP).
During the 3-year programme, you'll be employed in the NHS and study for an accredited university degree in healthcare science.
If you work as a healthcare science associate in the NHS, you may be able to apply for a place on the PTP.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Career tips
When looking to join an NHS training programme or an apprenticeship, you'll be expected to have an understanding of how NHS values apply in your work.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a clinical scientist from Health Careers.