Biology
This course will give you the skills to make connections and associations between all living things around you.
- Course Type School Leaver
- Subject Area Science
- Qualification A Level 🧩
- Study Mode: Full Time Only
- Course Level Level 3
- Course Length 2 years
- Overview
-
This course can be combined with others and goes particularly well with Chemistry and Maths (A Level or the Level 3 Certificate). Psychology, PE and Environmental Science are also popular combinations.
This course encourages you to develop essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of Biology and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations.
You will develop an understanding of scientific method and be aware of those scientific advances in technology that are relevant to the Biological Sciences. You will appreciate the value of and the responsible use of Biology in society. You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of Biology and learn to make and use connection between them.
This course is ideal if you enjoy learning about how processes in living organisms really happen and how all living organisms are interconnected. It is also ideal if you are interested in studying topics related to health and human effects on the environment.
You will be taught through lectures, group work, practical work, assignment and projects. Videos, IT equipment and visits are used as teaching aids and you will have access to fully equipped laboratories and also IT equipment. Various ongoing assessments are made by tests, essay writing and other exercises which do not contribute to the final exam.
Examinations: Two 90-minute AS Level written exams at end of Year 1. For A Level there are 3 x 2 hour written exams.
What topics will I study?
Year 1:
- Biological molecules
- Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
- Cell biology
Year 2:
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- The control of gene expression
You will:
- Gain an understanding of scientific methods
- Learn about scientific advances in technology relevant to biology
- Take part in fieldwork
- Take part in a DNA technology workshop
- Improve your communication skills in science, including how to reference, writing a synoptic essay and lab reports
- Develop your practical and investigative skills through lab work in our modern laboratories
- Enhance your data analysis and evaluation skills
This course goes well in combination with Chemistry and Maths (A Level or Level 3 Certificate). Psychology, PE and Environmental Science are also popular combinations.
Next steps: You could progress to higher education or a career in pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and related health subjects. Progression routes include biological science, biochemistry and biomedical science.
- Entry Requirements
-
You will need grade 4 in English Language, grade 5 in Maths, grade 6 in Biology and Chemistry or grade 66 in Science, plus four more GCSEs at grade 4 or above.
- Facilities
-
You will have access to fully equipped laboratories and PCs as well as access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC).
- Additional Costs
-
There are some costs of materials and resources.
-
Have a question?
If you have questions or would like to speak to someone, our team of Customer Service Advisers can help answer your questions or direct your enquiry to the correct team.
Speak to us today on 01392 400500 or send us a message using our contact form: www.exe-coll.ac.uk/contact. -
Ready to find out more?
Why not come along to one of our open events, a chance to explore our facilities, ask questions about our courses and find out more about being a student at Exeter College. Visit our open events page to find out more today.
What our students think?
“Maths can help you build your confidence to try more things, as it’s really rewarding when you get the right answers and figure things out by yourself.” Read more >
“Physics is my favourite subject and I particularly enjoy atomic physics. There is a helpful link between Physics and Maths, which is very interesting and lots of cross over, for example, when studying kinematics.” Read more >
“I study PE, Biology and Psychology A Levels and find they link together nicely. I chose my subjects by thinking about what I enjoy the most and what could help lead to a career in Sports, as that is my main interest.” Read more >
You may also like View all Level 3 Courses View all Science Courses
-
Microbiology – Extend Option
- Level: Level 3
-
Neurobiology – Extend Option
- Level: Level 3
-
Meteorology and Weather Forecasting – Extend Option
- Level: Level 3