Biology - A Level (AQA)

Biology is the study of life! During this course you will study the essential molecules, as simple as nucleotides, and how these can be repeated over long chains, to code for proteins to form complex human beings. There will be the opportunity to view cells on a microscopic scale and investigate their fine workings.

You will also study the devastating impacts of mutations during DNA replication that can lead to the development of tumours. 

You will have the opportunity to practise your critical and analytical thinking skills and gain insight into how the world around you works.

You will become a problem solver when designing and implementing different biological investigations and studying the different interactions between organisms and the ecosystem.

Topics covered can include:

• Topic 1 Biological Molecules
• Topic 2 Cells
• Topic 3 Organisms exchange of substances with their environment
• Topic 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
• Topic 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms
• Topic 6 Organisms' response to changes in their internal and external environments
• Topic 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
• Topic 8 The control of gene expression

You must have:

Minimum entry requirements in GCSEs -

Biology + Chemistry

• 66 (Double Science GCSE)
• 6 (First Separate Science) 
• 6 (Second Separate Science) 
• 5 (Third Separate Science)
• 6 (Maths)
• 5 (English Language)
• 3 GCSEs at grade 5+ 2 further GCSEs at grade 4+ (G Score)

Biology + Psychology

• 66 (Double Science GCSE)
• 6 (First Separate Science) 
• 6 (Second Separate Science) 
• 5 (Third Separate Science)
• 6 (Maths)
• 5 (English Language)
• G Score must be 6+ (G Score)

A reference from your previous school/college

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that A Levels are suitable for them.

During the first year, you will have an initial assessment followed by four progress assessments throughout year 12. You must pass the assessment at the end of the first year to process on to the second year.

At the end of the second year, you will sit three public examinations. You will also be assessed throughout the year on practical work completed to achieve your practical endorsement.

School Leavers

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

Many students who study Biology will go on to study Biomedical Sciences, Physiotherapy, Life Sciences, Microbiology, Marine Biology, Conservation, Veterinary Science and Pharmacy, as well as those who go on to become medical professionals.