Healthcare science assistant

You could take a college course, like a Level 2 Certificate or Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science to help improve your chances of finding work.

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

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

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

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

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.

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

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:

• Health Careers
• Academy for Healthcare Science
• Institute of Biomedical Science

You'll need:

• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• knowledge of biology
• analytical thinking skills
• maths knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As part of your day-to-day duties, you might:

• label, sort and store specimens
• help with tissue and fluid sample analysis
• put together chemical solutions
• load and operate machines
• use a computer to input and analyse data
• dispose of hazardous waste
• sterilise equipment
• maintain stock levels

You could work in an office, in a laboratory or at a GP practice.

You may need to wear protective clothing.