Human Biology AS and A Level

Entry requirements

A minimum of 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including 2 at grade B. Applicants must have at least a grade B in Additional Science or Biology at GCSE and a grade C in Maths and English Language.

The suitability of students studying Applied Science or Additional Applied Science will be determined by an interview with a member of the Biology team.


Duration

Two years.

What will I study?

If you are currently enjoying Biology at school and are doing well, and you have a particular interest in how the human body works this course will be of interest to you.



You may be interested in a career in which Human Biology is particularly useful, such as nursing, physiotherapy, sports sciences or childcare. Human Biology is also equally acceptable to Biology for entry into the medical profession.



Whatever your plans the best reason for choosing Human Biology is that you find it interesting and enjoyable



AS Level Human Biology:

Molecules and Blood, including types of blood cells, blood tests, the function of blood, cell structure, cell membranes and biological molecules.



Circulation and Gas Exchange, all aspects of the circulatory and respiratory systems and how they interact.



Growth, Development and Disease, how a single cell becomes a whole person, and the effect of infectious diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis, and how the body copes with them. Plus the non-infectious diseases, including asthma, diabetes and coronary heart disease.



You will have practical skills assessments: a three part practical exam, testing qualitative, quantitative and evaluative skills.



A2 Level Human Biology:



Energy, Respiration and Reproduction, including how cells use energy and the effects of exercise. The human reproductive system and causes of infertility, plus the interaction of humans with the environment.



Genetics, Control and Ageing, genetic diseases and mutations, how the body is controlled by the nervous system and endocrine glands, and the effects of ageing on reproduction, memory and other systems.



Extended Investigation: a chance to expand on a chosen area of the A2 Level course.

How will I be assessed?

At AS Level two units are assessed by written exams, the first in January, the second in the summer. The third unit is the internally assessed practical skills.The two A2 Level units are also assessed by written exams in January and the summer. The third unit is the internally assessed extended project.

What can I do next ?

The Human Biology A Level is considered to be equal in status to the Biology A Level for degree courses. It complements A Levels in Psychology, Physical Education and the other science subjects. It is a useful subject to take alongside healthcare and childcare courses.