Prospective Students: Our Courses

2010-11 Courses

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AS/A Level Biology (2012-13)

AS/A Level Biology

student taking part in Biology

Biology today is the fastest-developing science. This course is firmly based on the chemistry of biological processes.

Qualifications

As a minimum, you will require B grades in both GCSE Science and Additional Science (or in two separate sciences, including Biology). You should also have at least a grade B in GCSE Maths and a grade C in English.

Modules

AS Modules

  • Basic Biochemistry and Cells (AS)
  • Biodiversity and Physiology (AS)

A2 Modules

  • Environment, Genetics and Evolution (A2)
  • Metabolism, Microbiology and Homeostasis (A2)

The AS modules are common to all students and lead to an AS Biology qualification. In the second year students may choose to study Biology or Human Biology - the Environment, Genetics and Evolution unit is common to both. However, in the final unit while the content is similar, in Human Biology greater emphasis is placed on the content’s relevance to human beings.

Study Visits / Fieldwork

There is a major emphasis on the development of practical skills and during the course this may include field trips, especially in the second year.

After the Course

Both AS and A level Biology are excellent courses for many nonbiological degrees. There is also a vast range of specialist courses for which Biology provides an excellent foundation. There are the traditional Medicine, Veterinary Science, Nursing and Biology courses in higher education. You might also consider how useful Biology is in Archaeology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Law, Pharmacology and Speech Therapy.