A Level Biology

Biology is a popular choice if you're aiming for science-based careers such as medicine, physiotherapy or pharmacy. Biologists are very employable as they develop many skills in practical work, numeracy, problem solving and written communication.

You'll have an interest in the study of living organisms, enjoy carrying out investigations in the laboratory or as fieldwork.     Over the two years you will study a wide range of topics including some fundamental ideas of biology which include topics such as cell structure, biological molecules, nucleic acids, enzymes, membranes, cell division and diversity and cellular organisation.    

You will learn about the exchange and transport in animals and plants, biodiversity, evolution and disease processes, homeostasis, excretion, neuronal and hormonal communication, plant and animal responses, as well as photosynthesis and respiration, genetics and DNA, evolution, ecosystems, as well as cellular control, patterns of inheritance, manipulating genomes, cloning and biotechnology.    The course contains practical laboratory skills throughout and you will regularly underpin the theory with practical experiments and demonstrations.      All topics covered in the 2 years will be assessed at the end of the second year by examination. 

Career Prospects

Your career could be within the science research sector as a geneticist, a scientist who uses the information in genes to make discoveries and developments in a range of areas like medicine and agriculture. Depending on the area you work in, your role could include:

  • developing disease and drought-resistant crops
  • finding and recording disease
  • causing genes
  • using genes to chart animal populations and conserve wildlife
  • researching and developing new drugs and gene therapies
  • using genetics in archaeology
  • teaching students about genetics in a university
  • diagnosing genetic diseases

Entry Requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9/A* to 4/C, with two GCSEs in Science, both at grade 6/B, maths grade 6/B and English language grade 4/C. Please call the college to check entry requirements if you hold vocational science qualifications.

Additional Details

- All topics covered in the two years will be assessed at the end of the second year by examination.

- Suggestes texts to supplement this A level: OCR Biology (ISBN: 9780435691806)

After the course

The entry requirements for science related courses at university usually include at least two A levels in sciences or one science and maths. We therefore advise all A level biology students to also take another science or traditional maths at A level. You could continue your studies on a wide range of degree courses in biology, human biology, environmental science, physiotherapy, forensic science, medicine, nursing, dentistry, psychology and pharmacy or seek employment in related areas.