Science T Level

Quick facts

Is it for me?

T Level Science Laboratory Science
Are you interested in working in laboratory science setting? There are many professionals' roles that you use these skills, including Forensic science, Healthcare Science, Food science and Environmental science. This T level will give you the knowledge and the practical skills to be able to move into working in the industry or prepare you to study a degree in sciences. 
The T Levels are new qualifications that follow GCSEs and are equivalent to three A Levels. T Levels will combine classroom theory and practical learning and include an Industry placement: of at least 315 hours (approximately 45 days) with an employer to make sure you have real experience of the workplace and help you to develop your long-term career interests. During your two-year course, you will learn the core knowledge that underpins the sector, and you will also develop occupationally specific skills in laboratory science. This combination of classroom-based learning and work placement that will allow you to enter skilled employment or progress to university. 
The science industry is of critical importance to the United Kingdom, spanning societal, health and economic dimensions. Every year the life sciences sector contributes over £70 billion a year to the UK economy, with 8,800 people directly employed in the biotechnology sector alongside an additional 11,00 indirectly through related activities. Despite this the UK is currently facing a significant workforce shortage in this sector, with approximately 430,000 vacancies in STEM related sectors at the end of 2023.

What you'll learn

The content is split into a Core Component that has been created for this Technical Qualification in Science, and the following Occupational Specialism: Laboratory Science

The Core Component provides a broad understanding of the science sector inclusive of the following topics:

• Units and quantities used in science
• Biological molecules
• Cell structures
• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Chemical reactions
• Rates of reaction
• Formulae and equations
• Particles and radiation
• Electricity
• Magnetism and electromagnetism
• Waves
• Gas laws
• Health and safety in a laboratory environment
• Ethical considerations in scientific research

The Occupational Specialism is assessed via a project that is created collaboratively with employers. The content covers the following topics:

• Scientific laboratory techniques
• Standard operating procedures
• Relevant health and safety legislation
• Chemical calculations
• Organic chemistry
• Enthalpy
• Metabolic pathways and bioenergetics
• Genetic applications
• Electronics
• Data collection and analysis
• Good laboratory practice
• Good manufacturing practice

Equipment required for the course

You will require your own laboratory coat and a laptop.

Work experience placements

An industry placement is a big part of the T Level course - you'll need to undertake a minimum of 315 hours of mandatory industry experience where you can put your technical skills and classroom knowledge to the test, further enhance existing skills, as well as developing hands-on experience in your chosen industry.

Assessment

Assessment is a mixture of examination, planned assessment, skills demonstrations, and assignment work. 

The Core Component will be assessed by two examinations and an Employer Set Project. Your Occupational Specialism will allow you to develop the relevant skills in preparation for your career in the science sector.

Example careers

• Laboratory Research Scientist
• Biomedical Scientist
• Medical Laboratory Assistant
• Food Safety Analyst
• Healthcare Science
• Technician scientist
• Forensic Investigator

Degree related programmes:

• Biomedical Science
• Forensic Science
• Applied Science
• Food Science/Nutrition
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science

Days & times

Starting September 2026