Human Biology
AAQ Human Biology offers a practical, real‑world approach to studying biology, with a focus on human health and the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
The course is designed to prepare students for employment or further study in science-related fields.
- Qualification
- AAQ
- Exam Board
- OCR
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study Human Biology at St Brendan’s?
This course provides a more applied and practical approach to biology, helping students build skills relevant to health and science careers.
It is particularly suited to those interested in real‑world applications of science.
Entry requirements
- 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)
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
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)
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.
skillsDeveloped
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)
Optional modules (as a college we will choose which 2 of these we will do following consultation with universities):
Nutrition and metabolism (coursework unit)
Human reproduction (coursework unit)
The brain (coursework unit)
Drug development (coursework unit). Coursework units: Make up 56% of the marks. 4 out of the 6 units studied are assessed by coursework assignments with multiple criteria to address.
Exam units: Make up 44% of the marks. 2 of the units are externally assessed with formal exams.
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 can be studied alongside a wide range of other subjects.
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.
Progression opportunities
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