Summary

Biology is the science of life. Studying biology will give you a thorough understanding of the biological principles involved in many areas, such as genetic engineering, critical data analysis, plant structure and biodiversity. This can lead to many exciting career opportunities in the varied fields of medicine, genetics, healthcare, forensics, sports science and environmental science.

In this course you will study:

AS (year 1)

How will I know how I am doing?

AS Biology (Year 1):

• Two exams at the end of the year; both are 1 hour and 30 minutes long
• AS is a stand-alone qualification and the results from these AS exams will not count towards the full A-level

A2 Biology (Year 2):

• A2 has three exams; two are 2 hours and 15 minutes long and one is 1 hour and 30 minutes long

There is no coursework on this course. However, your performance during practicals will be assessed.

What do I need to join?

• BB/6-6 in GCSE Science and C/5 in Maths, and an entrance test

or

• AA/7-7 and C/5 in Maths

Work Experience

You will be required to do a minimum of 36 hours of work experience. This is usually completed in a week during your first year in term time, where you will have the opportunity to explore a career field which takes your interest. In the lead-up to this week, you will be asked to create an exciting CV during a group tutorial period. The aim of this activity is to give you an idea of what full-time employment is like and to help you think about which career you would like to follow.

What can I do next?

Studying biology can lead to many exciting career opportunities in the very varied fields of medicine, genetics, healthcare, forensics, sports science and environmentalism, to name but a few. The transferable skills you will learn, such as problem solving, are also useful in many other areas, such as law.