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 for Healthcare Science Assistants
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 apprenticeship in healthcare science.
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
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Volunteering
You may have an advantage if you've worked or volunteered in a health or social care role.
You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for further advice. Do-it also has information on voluntary opportunities in your area.
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: