When browsing our Life Sciences course options, you might have come across what is called the Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences.
If this is your first encounter with a foundation diploma, you probably have a few questions. Do you take this course before a degree course? Who is it for? We’re here with the answers, so read on to find out!
1) It is ideal for individuals curious about the life sciences
A Foundation Diploma is actually a pre-university qualifications course that gives you more time to settle into the tertiary education environment, work on your academic skills, and prepare yourself for degree-level studies.
PSB Academy’s Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences is especially suitable for:
a) Undergraduate or polytechnic students who have discovered that their current majors may not be right for them
b) Individuals exploring a career change to the life sciences industry, as well as
c) Prospective students who would like to embark on a life sciences degree, but do not yet possess the relevant qualifications.
2) The course welcomes individuals in different stages of their education journey
At PSB Academy, we believe that learning never stops. This is why we’ve tailored our Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences to not only be accessible to students, but also mature candidates too.
The minimum entry requirement for local students is one GCE ‘O’-Level or equivalent, or NITEC. You’ll also need one GCE ‘O’-Level English with a grade ranging between A1 to C6 or its equivalent. We also accept individuals aged 30 years and above who have at least who have at least eight years of working experience. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis. International students are welcome too: do refer to this page for country-specific admission requirements.
3) It is modelled after La Trobe University’s curriculum
Do you have a budding interest in the fields of biomedical science, molecular biology, biotechnology, applied chemistry, or pharmaceutical science?
If so, here’s some good news: these fields are explored through awarded by our overseas university partner, La Trobe University. PSB Academy has specifically designed the Foundational Diploma in Life Sciences to help prepare students for a smooth transition into any of these degree courses.
This means that you will be eligible to enrol for the next degree intake , subject to La Trobe University’s approval. You’ll get to apply the skills and knowledge that you’ve learnt in the diploma course immediately, and might even meet future course mates in advance.
4) The curriculum balances theoretical and practical knowledge
You will spend time in both lectures and laboratory sessions to give you a firm grounding in fundamental mathematical and scientific principles, as well as practical skills.
The Biomedical and Environmental Biology module, for example, will teach you about evolution and biological diversity, plant biology, animal biology, and ecology. It will cover key biological concepts such as homeostasis, signalling, and immune defence, and include extensive laboratory sessions to familiarise you with important laboratory techniques and equipment.
You’ll find our cheery life science laboratories a treat to be in! Designed in collaboration with industry partners and academic institutions such as La Trobe University, we’ve fitted them with industry-standard equipment and overhead cameras —so that you can observe demonstrations from your workstation without missing a single step.
5) It can be completed within 12 months
The Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences comprises eight modules in total, and students on the full-time pathway will be able to complete it within 12 months. Part-time students, in the meantime, will be able to complete the course within 15 months.
You may be eligible for exemptions from specific modules if you have prior experience or knowledge, and graduate in a shorter time*! This gives you the opportunity to pursue your passions or while waiting for your degree course to begin. Take some time off to relax if that’s your plan: you deserve a good break!
*subject to meeting entry requirements and approval of PSB Academy
Now that you’ve learnt more about the Foundation Diploma in Life Sciences, have you decided that it is the right course for you?
Here’s what you’ll need to know! The course has three intakes yearly, and you’ll be able to submit an application online through our Application Submission Portal.
Are you still deciding? The following resources may help. Vong Tep Reasmey, who is part of the Class of 2020, has shared her experiences here. You can also drop us an enquiry with all your questions and our course consultants will get back to you as soon as possible.
We hope you’ll find a second home in PSB Academy, and we can’t wait to see you on our STEM campus whenever you’re ready!
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