Routes to Registration

To work in the UK as a Clinical Scientist, individuals must gain registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).

1. Association of Clinical Scientists (ACS) – Certificate of Attainment

ACS Route individuals will be required to produce a portfolio of evidence of their training and experience. The portfolio will demonstrate attainment of approved competences, both Generic and Modality/Sub-Modality specific competences. This is followed by a final interview to confirm their skills and knowledge. Individuals who have completed this route will be awarded a certificate of attainment which they can use to apply for HCPC registration. Experience gained from overseas can also be accepted on this route towards an application.

2. Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) – Certificate of Equivalence

The AHCS STP Certificate of Equivalence is an education programme where individuals must comply with the Standards of Good Scientific Practice (GSP) and the programme outcomes of their chosen NSHCS accredited STP specialty. They must produce a portfolio of evidence, followed by an interview, to demonstrate comparable knowledge, skills and behaviours to someone completing the relevant STP curriculum. Once successful, applicants can then apply to join the HCPC statutory register as a Clinical Scientists.

3. National School of Healthcare Science – The Scientist Programme (STP)

The STP is a three-year programme of work-based learning, supported by a University accredited master’s degree. During the programme, individuals will complete their MSc examinations as well as train and complete an e-portfolio of evidence. After successful completion of the STP, the National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS) will issue individuals a Certificate of Completion which can be used to apply for HCPC registration.

4. HCPC International route

The international route is designed for individuals who are already fully trained and have completed professional training working overseas, but wish to obtain HCPC registration in the UK as a Clinical Scientist. These individuals must make an application online and provide evidence to the HCPC directly.