Biology (A-level)

Students will study a variety of topics including:

• Development of practical skills in biology
• Foundations in biology
• Exchange and transport
• Biodiversity, evolution and disease
• Communication, homeostasis and energy
• Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

If you are interested in studying A-level Biology, you may also be interested in our additional pathways, the T-level in Health, the T-level in Science or the Advanced Technical Diploma in Animal Management. All A-level applicants are encouraged to research alternative pathways before accepting their offer to study A-levels.

You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 5.

In addition, you should have GCSE Combined Science at grade 6,6 or above.  If you have taken Triple Science, then Biology must be at grade 6, with the other two sciences at grade 4.

A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.

It is assumed that students will enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.

• Module 1: Development of practical skills – this module underpins the whole of the course and covers the practical skills that students should develop throughout. The practical skills in this module can be assessed within written examinations and within the Practical Endorsement.
• Module 2: Foundations in biology – covering concepts required throughout the remaining modules
• Modules 3 and 4: Exchange and transport, biodiversity, evolution and disease
• Modules 5 and 6: Communication, homeostasis and energy, genetics, evolution and ecosystems

This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.

N/A

You will be assessed by external examination at the end of Year 2.

Careers

The list of career opportunities is varied and endless, including:

• Academic and research roles
• Biological technology
• Medical and health services
• Genetic counselling
• Health education
• Biochemistry
• Pharmaceutical/medical product sales
• Marine biology

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk