Biology A Level
This course will give you the skills to make connections and associations between all living things around you. Being such a broad topic, you are bound to find a specific area of interest, plus it opens the door to a fantastic range of careers.
On this course you will:
– Study a range of topics relating to biology in Year 1, including: biological molecules, cells, exchanges (how oxygen, carbon dioxide, water and nutrients are transported through the different organisms) and biodiversity
– Study Year 2 topics including energy transfers, responses, genetics and evolution and control of gene expression looks at how cells become specialised by altering which genes are switched on and off
– Develop your scientific and critical thinking skills
– 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
Apply for this course
Select from the start date/s below…
North Devon Campus
Course details
Assessments
Written examinations which will include the assessment of your knowledge of practical procedures. There is a heavily weighted essay question in the Year 2 assessment. In addition to the written papers, you will complete 12 required practicals throughout the course using a range of biological techniques. This will lead to a Practical Endorsement alongside your A Level.
Entry Requirements
To be accepted onto this Level 3 programme, you must hold at least eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including GCSE Maths and English Language.
This subject requires a grade 5 in GCSE Maths, grade 6 in Biology and Chemistry or grade 6-6 in Science
Progression
You could progress to university level for a career in pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and related health subjects. Progression routes include biological science, biochemistry, biomedical science, nursing, paramedic science, physiotherapy and radiography. Note that for the most competitive progression routes from A Level Biology, such as medicine or biology courses at top universities, A Level Chemistry is often required.
Facilities and resources
We have a suite of spacious, well-equipped dedicated biology labs. Our labs all have fully interactive whiteboards and wireless internet capability. Students have access to class sets of laptops. Biology resources include advanced apparatus which allows students to perform cutting-edge processes such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction), used in DNA profiling. Home learning is supported by our continuously updated VLE.
FAQs
Q: Is the content different to GCSE?
A: The main topic areas will be very familiar to you but you will find there is a lot more detail.
Q: Is A Level Biology hard?
A: Yes, it’s a big step up from GCSE, but your teachers will give you all the help and support you need.
Q: What about Human Biology?
A: We no longer offer this because the Biology A Level is highly regarded by all universities and employers. The current syllabus includes a large proportion of Human Biology topics.
Study Programme
Every full-time student at North Devon College will have their own Study Programme which will include:
– Your academic or vocational qualification.
– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.
– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.
– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.
– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.
– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.
Why North Devon College should be your first choice
North Devon College offers quality education and training across North Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.
SUPPORTIVE
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community.Â
INSPIRING
Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments.Â
CONNECTED
We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.
