Training is delivered with a strong emphasis on regulatory standards, accuracy, and professional ethics. From Level 2 through to Level 4, our healthcare science pathways offer a structured route into the sector and provide the foundation for long-term progression in clinical science roles.
Duration: 16 Months
Duration: 24 Months
Duration: 18 - 24 Months
Duration: 20-24 Months
Many of these disciplines require small workforce numbers and provide highly specialist services. These specialisms are within the health and social care system in the UK inclusive of the NHS, Public Health England and the NHS Blood & Transplant service and in the private & third sector delivering NHS services for patients
A Healthcare Science apprenticeship is a work-based training programme that combines paid employment with structured learning. Apprentices gain the skills, knowledge, and behaviours required to work in healthcare science roles across the NHS and private sector.
Anyone aged 16 or over who is not in full-time education and meets the entry requirements can apply. Applicants must usually demonstrate an interest in science and healthcare, and have a minimum of GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science.
Apprenticeships are offered at different levels, typically:
Level 2: Healthcare Science Assistant
Level 4: Associate Healthcare Practitioner
Level 6: Degree Apprenticeship in Healthcare Science
Level 7: Clinical Scientist apprenticeship
Depending on the level, apprenticeships last between 12 months (Level 2) and 3–5 years (degree/Level 6–7).
Yes, apprentices are employed and paid a salary. Pay varies depending on the employer, apprenticeship level, and experience, but must meet at least the national apprenticeship minimum wage.
Apprentices develop:
Knowledge: Scientific principles, clinical practices, and healthcare regulations.
Skills: Laboratory techniques, patient testing, equipment use, data analysis.
Behaviours: Professionalism, teamwork, communication, and attention to detail.
Training is a mix of:
On-the-job learning in the workplace, supervised by experienced staff.
Off-the-job training (at least 20% of time), delivered by a training provider or university.
Yes, each apprenticeship ends with an End-Point Assessment (EPA), which may include written exams, practical observation, and professional discussion.
Depending on the level, apprentices can progress into roles such as:
Healthcare Science Assistant
Associate Practitioner
Biomedical Scientist (via HCPC registration pathway)
Clinical Scientist
Specialist roles in pathology, genetics, cardiac science, audiology, and more.
Yes. Many apprentices progress from Level 2 → Level 4 → Degree (Level 6). Completion may also count toward professional registration and university entry.
Employers gain:
Skilled staff trained to industry standards.
Increased staff retention and career progression.
Access to apprenticeship funding.
Employers use the Apprenticeship Levy or co-investment funding. The government funds 95% of training costs for smaller employers.
Yes. Apprenticeships are a direct alternative to full-time college or university, but learners still achieve nationally recognised qualifications.
