This course is designed to enable you to:

Follow a vocationally specific qualification which allows entry into Higher Education in Biological Sciences

Develop the scientific knowledge, understanding and skills required to become a science technician or for HE

Appreciate the applications of Biological Science in the scientific and local community

Develop practical skills in the laboratory

Use ICT and numerical methods to present and interpret data

Is it for me?

If you’re keen to study Applied Biology, the fundamentals of Science and practical scientific techniques alongside a range of Applied Biology options then this course could be for you. This course particularly suits students who prefer continuous assessment to external exams.

The qualification, which is equivalent to one A Level, runs over 2 years and is made up of 6 units of study.

What’s involved?

Six units are studied during the two years of the course.  There are two core units, Unit 1 and Unit 2 which are compulsory.  The remaining four units have been selected to cover a broad range of topics in Biology.  Units are graded P (Pass), M (Merit) or D (Distinction).  This vocationally orientated course has links with local employers to provide visits to laboratories, and guest speakers.  Three units are studied in Year 1 and Three in Year 2.  There is no qualification achieved by the end of Year 1, so students must study for two years to achieve the qualification.

Units

1.    Fundamentals of Science

4.   Scientific Practical Techniques

11. Physiology of Human Body Systems

12. Physiology of Human Regulation and Reproduction

15. Microbiological Techniques

18. Genetics and Genetic Engineering

For each unit you will receive a description of the unit, a summary of learning outcomes, subject content and assessment guidance.

Entry Requirements:

A minimum of CC in GCSE Science, C in GCSE Maths and/or grade C in GCSE English.

Which courses go well with this?

This course combines well with Health and Social Care, P.E. and Psychology.

Progression:

The course allows access to university as it awards equivalent UCAS points to a full A Level in Biology. Students can gain access onto university courses such as Nursing, Midwifery, Biological/ Biochemical Sciences, Genetics, Radiology, Biotechnology etc. and including non-Science university degrees.