Biology
Biology A Level
Why Biology?
The Biology A Level course at SBU offers students a wide range of opportunities to develop their academic skills whilst developing practical skills that will help students to demonstrate their knowledge of the theory.
During this qualification, students will look at the circulatory system and the importance of lifestyle choices alongside the impact that these choices can have on the health of the cardiovascular system. Biological principles through the context of genetic diseases are considered that allow students to deepen their knowledge around DNA and social/ethical issues surrounding the genetic screening for genetic conditions. Students will be given opportunities to follow the development of multicellular organisms from single cells to complex individuals. Finally students are able to focus on the development of the brain and the nervous system as well as analytical techniques and how these are used to determine how bacteria and viruses can spread around the world.
Entry requirements
- GCSE English level: 6
- GCSE Maths level: 5
- Other requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Science at (Combined or Biology).
Structure of the course
The course consists of three written papers that will be taken at the end of Year 13.
- Paper 1: The Natural Environment and Species Survival 2 hours
- Paper 2; Energy, Exercise and Co-ordination 2 hours
- Paper 3: General and Practical Applications in Biology 2 hours
- Practical endorsement in Biology (Not examined – reported separately)
Career opportunities:
Graduates with a Biology degree are highly employable, as it is a fundamental subject for careers in the science and health sectors. There are many other routes you can take with an A level in Biology. These include medicine, medical sciences, biochemical sciences or environmental sciences. There are also pathways into physiotherapy, forensic science, nursing, midwifery, laboratory research and many other careers within the NHS.
