The Higher Education Certificate in Biological Sciences is at level four of the Uganda Higher Education Qualifications Framework. The individuals who obtain this award are required to:
- Demonstrate basic knowledge of the underlying concepts, facts, theories and principles associated with the study and practice of biological science.
- Plan, design and carry out experiments and investigations and identify an associated problem.
- Demonstrate knowledge and basic understanding of scientific instruments and apparatus used in Biological Science experiments including techniques of operations and safety aspects.
- Demonstrate an ability to present, evaluate and interpret observations and experimental data, in order to develop lines of arguments and make sound judgments in accordance with basic theories and concepts of Biological Sciences.
- Demonstrate an awareness of the limitations of biological theories and models.
- Evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems related to the study and practice of Biological Sciences.
- Communicate the results of their study or practice accurately and reliably, and with structured and coherent arguments.
- Apply their subject-‑related transferable skills in contexts where individuals may have some limited personal responsibility, but the criteria for decisions and the scope of the task are well defined.
- Apply techniques, apparatus, measuring devices as well as laboratory materials safely and effectively.
- Make and record observations, measurements and estimates in appropriate units and with a high degree of precision and accuracy.
- Explore further training and develop new skills within a structured and managed environment.
- Work with others to achieve defined objectives. In addition, they should be able to take up leadership roles in-‑group work.
