Human Biology

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above

GCSE English Language at grade 4

GCSE Maths at grade 4

Two GCSEs in Science at grade 4 (including Biology if taken separately) or Combined Science grade 4-4

You will study a range of topics including:

• Fundamentals of Human Biology
• Health and disease
• Genetics
• Biomedical techniques
• Nutrition and Metabolism
• The Brain

You will complete both compulsory and optional units, with a mix of coursework and exam-based assessment.

Skills Developed

• Practical laboratory skills
• Scientific research and analysis
• Independent learning and organisation
• Application of biological knowledge to real-world contexts

Students learn through:

• Theory-based lessons
• Practical laboratory work
• Debate and discussion
• Independent study and research
• Group work and assignments

Compulsory modules (all colleges complete these units):

• Fundamentals of human biology (exam unit)
• Health and disease (exam unit)
• Genetics (coursework unit)
• Biomedical techniques (coursework unit)
• Nutrition and metabolism (coursework unit)
• The brain (coursework unit)

Two of the units are externally assessed with formal exams. The exams make up 40% of your overall grade.

For both of the external exams there is the opportunity for students to improve grades by retaking the exams.

Students benefit from:

• Well-equipped science laboratories supported by specialist technicians
• Access to laptops and college network systems
• Use of the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) with books, journals and internet access
• Access to computer suites across the college

No specific additional costs are listed for this course.

Human Biology cannot be taken with A-Level Biology.

This course supports progression into:

• Employment in science-related areas
• Higher education, including courses in:
• Nursing
• Midwifery
• Paramedic science
• Sports science and therapy
• Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
• Health and social care

Students have access to:

• A programme promoting open days, events and opportunities through the Biomed programme
• Visiting speakers from a range of scientific and healthcare disciplines

Students have progressed into a range of healthcare and science-related degrees and careers.