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Biology A Level

Biology today is the fastest developing Science with GM Technology, Climate Change and Pandemics constantly in the headlines. The course offers a comprehensive insight into the different aspects of Biology. It follows a comparative approach showing how species have evolved to overcome the ‘trials of life’.

What does the course involve?

The course will develop your knowledge and understanding of Biology. The many practical activities will allow you to become skilled in a range of techniques and data analysis.

Year One

Topics studied include:

  • Cell structure and organisation
  • Cell membranes and transport
  • Gas exchange and transport in plants and animals
  • Basic biochemistry: carbohydrates, lipids and proteins
  • Nucleic acids and their functions
  • Genetic diversity and adaptation
  • Biodiversity and classification

Year Two

Topics studied include:

  • Photosynthesis and respiration
  • Ecology
  • The nervous system
  • Homeostasis and the endocrine system
  • Genetics
  • Evolution and speciation
  • Gene technology

Please note: /404Certificate in Mathematical Studies must be studied alongside this course, unless you are also studying Mathematics or Statistics. 

Trips

Various local trips are arranged to link to different aspects of the course. There is usually a nominal charge for these. 

Students are also required to attend a short residential field course at a subsidised cost of approximately £230.

What can you do after the course?

You will learn many new skills which will help you gain good grades in Biology, but also provide you with the skills for higher education and your future career.

Biology provides an excellent foundation for a number of specialist courses, such as medicine, veterinary sciences, nursing and biology.

The STEM skills that you develop within A Level Biology are also useful for a number of non-biological courses and careers, including archaeology, pharmacology, speech therapy, psychology and law.

For those who are interested in pursuing a career in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, or Dentistry, the College has a dedicated programme providing support and guidance. For more information, click here.

Alwin talks about Biology at Hereford Sixth Form College