Department of Science, Maths, Technology and Computing HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry Programme Specification Contents Programme title... 2 Course codes... 2 School responsible for the management of the course... 2 Duration of the programme/s... 2 Entry requirements... 2 Educational aims in Applied Chemistry... 3 Course description outline... 3 Distinguishing features... 4 Course structure... 4 Descriptors for HNC (Level 4)... 5 Descriptors for HND (Level 5)... 6 Assessment & assessment criteria... 6 Summary of grades... 7 Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC)... 7 Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND)... 8 Progression from BTEC Level 4 HNC in Applied Chemistry... 8 Progression from BTEC Level 5 HND in Applied Chemistry... 8 Student Support... 9 Quality Standards evaluation... 9 Other regulations... 9 HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 1
Programme title HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry Course codes Harrow College codes: HC4ASCWA HNC full-time HC4APCWA HNC part-time HD5ASCWA HND full-time/top-up UCAS codes: 100F (course code) H11 (institution code) School responsible for the management of the course Department of Science Awarding body: Pearson Duration of the programme/s HNC: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time HND: 1 year full-time Entry requirements Entry Requirements for HNC GCSE English Language grade A* - C and 2 A Levels A* - D or BTEC Level 3 Diploma MP or BTEC Extended Diploma PPP For international students an IELTS score of 5.5 is required. Those who do not have formal qualifications at level 3 but can demonstrate extensive relevant work experience and/or achievement on a range of professional qualifications in Science are also welcome to apply. Entry Requirements for HND A completed HNC or Completed qualifying units that match the programme applied for and the HNC requirements above. ------------------------------------------ Please note: in all cases, apart from English language and Functional Skills, science-based qualifications are required. HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 2
Educational aims in Applied Chemistry This is a practical programme designed to provide learners with thorough knowledge in concepts and practical skills related to Applied Chemistry, as well as skills for learners to progress to employment in the field of Chemical Technology. Learners are expected to develop the following skills and abilities during the programme of study: work effectively as individuals and in teams be flexible and respond to the changing climate within the scientific community design, plan, conduct and report on scientific investigations undertake laboratory investigations in a responsible, safe and ethical manner recognise moral and ethical issues of scientific enquiry and experimentation and appreciation of the need for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of science, the capacity to give a clear and accurate account of a subject, marshal arguments in a mature way and engage in debate and dialogue both with specialists and non-specialists communicate effectively and appropriately use ICT and management information systems in a chemical environment personal qualities and attributes essential for successful performance in working life analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically read and use appropriate scientific literature with a full and critical understanding solve problems, applying subject knowledge and understanding to address familiar and unfamiliar problems think laterally and be innovative and creative in relevant contexts work as an individual and in teams for successful performance in a chemically based industrial environment think independently, take responsibility for their learning and recognise their learning style Course description outline This specialised vocational programme provides the skills and knowledge demanded of the modern science industry and it is designed to equip those who wish to work in chemical-related industries with the employability skills and the practical expertise to thrive within this cutting edge environment. The programme is taught by a team of specialist lecturers who use a variety of teaching methods, including blended learning, to design lessons and assessments with their learners needs in mind. Classes take place in our new, modern and well-equipped laboratories fitted with advanced equipment including a spectrophotometer, mobile fume cupboards and smart projectors. HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 3
HNC full-time: 1 academic year comprising of 2 x 15-week taught semesters with classes usually taking place on Thursdays and Fridays. HNC part-time: 2 academic years comprising of 2 x 15-week taught semesters per year with classes usually taking place on Fridays. HND full-time only: 1 academic year comprising of 2 x 15-week taught semesters with classes usually taking place on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays Full time students complete the HNC in year 1 and the HND in year 2. Part time students complete the HNC in years 1 and 2. In year 3 students will complete the final top-up to the HND in Applied Chemistry. Distinguishing features Industrial visits are arranged to the water industry, nuclear industry and recycling plants. Students also have the opportunity to have work experience in specialist laboratories and industries. Our learners benefit greatly from the use of the Student Portal, an online platform offering a source of e-resources including a set of online Study Skills modules and e-books, detailed information about the course, the college and the services, resources and events on offer. Course structure Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Applied Chemistry (QCF) The qualification comprises a minimum of 120 credits of which 75 credits are mandatory core The programme must contain a minimum of 65 credits at level 4 The Harrow College HNC programme with blended learning comprises the following units: Mandatory Core Units Level Credits 1 Inorganic Chemistry 4 15 2 Organic Chemistry 4 15 3 Physical Chemistry 4 15 4 Chemical Laboratory Techniques 4 15 6 Analysis of Scientific Data and Information 4 15 Specialist Units 29 Personal and Professional Development 5 15 17 Medicinal Chemistry 5 15 28 Work-based Experience 5 15 HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 4
Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Applied Chemistry (QCF) The qualification comprises a minimum of 240 credits of which 95 credits are mandatory core The programme must contain a minimum of 125 credits at level 5 The Harrow College HND programme with blended learning comprises the following units: Mandatory Core Units Level Credits 5 Project for Applied Science 5 20 Specialist Units 9 Inorganic Chemistry of Crystal Structures and Transition Metal Complexes 5 15 10 Organic Chemistry of Aromatic and Carbonyl Compounds 5 15 19 Environmental Monitoring and Analysis 5 15 20 Environmental Management and Conservation 5 15 24 Nuclear Chemistry 5 15 15 Biochemistry of Macromolecules and Metabolic Pathways 5 15 30 Employability Skills 5 15 Descriptors for HNC (Level 4) The Higher National Certificate is awarded to students who demonstrate the following: Knowledge of concepts and principles in Applied Chemistry along with the ability to evaluate and interpret these within the course Ability to present, evaluate and analyse qualitative and quantitative data in Chemistry and link these to basic theories and concepts Students should also be able to: Explore and evaluate different approaches to problem solving in Applied Chemistry Communicate results of both theory and practical work accurately and reliably with coherent arguments Develop new skills and undertake training within a structured area Students will have transferrable skills and develop qualities required for employment by taking personal responsibility. HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 5
Descriptors for HND (Level 5) The Higher National Diploma is awarded to students who demonstrate the following: Critical understanding and knowledge and development of the principles of Applied Chemistry Ability to apply principles, concepts and applications in an industrial context Ability to demonstrate critical approach to problem solving in Applied Chemistry Have and understanding of the limitations on analysis, evaluation of practical work and interpretation of knowledge Students should also be able to: Conduct critical analysis on a wide range of techniques and propose solutions to any problems on analysis Be an effective communicator of information and analysis to specialised and non-specialised audience Develop and enhance existing skills and undertake training to acquire new competencies for employment Students will have transferrable skills and qualities required for decision making and personal responsibility in employment. Assessment & assessment criteria The aim of assessment is to ensure that effective learning of the individual units has been undertaken. Evidence of this learning is directly linked to the assessment criteria and grade descriptors. This course is 100% coursework assessed. There are no external examinations. For each unit it will be necessary to produce a portfolio of assignments to demonstrate that the grading criteria have been achieved for the unit. These assignments may be: Written assignments Laboratory reports on practical work Tests Role plays Work sheets Project work Presentations Other suitable methods On completion of task, the work is marked and graded by the internal assessor at the College and then subjected to internal verification (IV) process. It is presented to the EE for approval and of marking and the moderation has been fair and reliable. The EE provides the College with a final annual report that is shared within the departmental HE teachers. Any actions and recommendations are noted and an action plan is followed for following academic year. Final grades are agreed by an assessment board in assessment board meeting where learner s coursework and grades are discussed and finalised. The board is comprised of members of the lecturing team, management, a quality representative and an external board verifier is also invited. This is an academic review and following this, grades will be published and will be available to students. This programme complies with the QAA Quality code. HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 6
Summary of grades In order to achieve a pass in a unit In order to achieve a merit in a unit In order to achieve a distinction in a unit all learning outcomes and associated assessment criteria have been met pass requirements achieved all merit grade descriptors achieved pass and merit requirements achieved all distinction grade descriptors achieved Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC) To achieve the level 4 HNC, a learner must Achieve at least 120 credits at or above the level of the qualification (a maximum of 55 credits may be at Level 5) Achieve a minimum of 65 credits at Level 4 Calculation of the BTEC HNC qualification grade is based on the learner s best performance in units at or above the level of the qualification to the value of 75 credits: The best 75 credits must come from a maximum of 120 credits The units from which the best 75 credits are selected come from the whole qualification including the mandatory core credits Learners will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction qualification grade using the points gained through the 75 best credits based on unit achievement. Unit credit points available, level 4 or 5 units Unit points per credit Pass Merit Distinction 0 1 2 Example for level 4 or 5 unit of 15 credits Pass Merit Distinction 0 15 30 HNC overall qualification grades Points range Grade 0 74 Pass P 75 149 Merit M 150 Distinction D HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 7
Calculation of the qualification grade (Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND) To achieve the BTEC level 5 HND, a learner must Achieve at least 240 credits at or above the level of the qualification Achieve a minimum of 125 credits at Level 5 or above Calculation of the BTEC HND qualification grade is based on the learner s best performance in units at or above the level of the qualification i.e. only units at level 5 can be counted towards the value of 75 credits: The best 75 credits must come from a maximum of 240 credits as a valid rule of combination The units from which the 75 best credits are selected come from the whole qualification including the mandatory core credit, but must be level 5 units or above Learners will be awarded a pass, merit or distinction qualification grade using the points gained through the 75 best credits based on unit achievement. Unit credit points available, level 5 only Unit points per credit Pass Merit Distinction 0 1 2 HND overall qualification grades Points range Grade 0 74 Pass P 75 149 Merit M 150 Distinction D Progression from BTEC Level 4 HNC in Applied Chemistry This specialist work-related programme of study covers the key knowledge, understanding and practical skills required in the Applied Chemistry sector. The qualification offers a progression route for learners who are/wish to be employed in the applied chemistry and related manufacturing and service science industries, and opportunities to progress into higher education. Learners can progress to the level 5 HND programme or into the second year of a degree or honours degree programme, depending on the match of the BTEC Higher National units to the degree programme in question, or to the professional qualifications offered by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Progression from BTEC Level 5 HND in Applied Chemistry This programme builds on the knowledge gained from the level 4 HNC and provides greater breadth and specialisation in the field of Applied Chemistry, as well as opportunities for learners to apply their knowledge and practical skills in the workplace. Learners will have the opportunity to do this through work placements or part-time employment experience. The qualification prepares learners for employment in the Applied Chemistry sector and is suitable for learners who have already decided that they wish to enter this area of work. Progression may well be into or within employment in the Applied Chemistry sector where learners may work towards membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry. HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 8
Learners can progress to the second or third year of a degree or honours degree programme, depending on the match of the BTEC Higher National units to the degree programme in question. The BTEC Level 5 HND in Applied Chemistry offers a progression route to the professional qualifications offered by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Student Support The college provides an induction period at the beginning of the course. Resources are available via the student portal which has course information as well individual information about reviews, timetables and units plans. Students have access to learning materials, both on and off-site. Students are supported in Tutorial sessions, one-to-one reviews, careers advice, access to a well-equipped learning centre and support for UCAS applications. Learners with more specific needs are able to apply for DLA. Quality Standards evaluation The College has several methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of its HE provision, including: External examiners meet with learners Learner voice with student representation Focus groups for learner feedback and experience Qualifications Self-assessment reviews carried out by tutors Staff-student consultative committees Student evaluations Internal verification policies Feedback is discussed at the Course Review meetings and built into the action plan. Other regulations Students must attend a minimum of 75% taught sessions. Students are allowed 1 resit per module. HNC & HND in Applied Chemistry (reviewed Oct 15) Page 9