Why Study?
Biologists are scientists who study the natural world and all the living things in it, from the largest mammals down to our very own microscopic DNA.
They try to understand how animals and organisms work (including us humans), how we evolved and the things that can make us sick or improve our health.
Because biologists deal with the natural world, their jobs can take them anywhere, from labs to zoos to ocean liners in the arctic and fieldwork in the Amazon jungle.
As with the other sciences, biology helps you to build up research, problem solving, organisation and analytical skills.
If you study biology, you will likely find yourself working on group projects, which will help you build your teamwork and communication skills too.
What can I do with it?
It will provide an excellent foundation for further study of Biology, Biomedical Science or other Biological Science courses in higher education as well as Medicine, Veterinary Science and Nursing. In today’s job market, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is in demand. Biology is a key subject for lots of STEM careers, particularly in healthcare, medicine and jobs involving plants or animals. The list is pretty long and includes nursing, dentistry, forensic science, psychology, physiotherapy, botany, environmental science, zoology, geology, oceanography, pharmaceuticals, energy, teaching, science writing, genetics and research.
For students not intending to pursue a study of Biological Sciences to a higher level the course provides a valuable educational experience and the chance to develop skills relevant to areas beyond Biology.
Subject combinations
The course will complement a wide range of other subject choices at GCE level, such as Sports Science, Psychology, Maths, Geography and Chemistry. But study it with a language or an essay subject like English and you might have even more choices for your career.
Extras
AMGEN equipment experience
What will I study?
Development of Practical Skills
Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.
Foundation Biology
Cell structure, function and diversity; membrane structure and function; cell division; enzymes; biological molecules.
Exchange and Transport
Exchange surfaces; transport in animals; transport in plants.
Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease
Spread and prevention of disease; immune system; biodiversity; classification and evolution.
Communications, Homeostasis and Energy
Homeostasis; nervous system; endocrine system; plant and animal responses to stimuli; photosynthesis; respiration.
Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems
Cellular control; patterns of inheritance; genetic manipulation; cloning and biotechnology; populations and sustainability.
Three written papers covering modules 1 – 6.
Paper 1 covers modules 1, 2, 3 and 5; it 2 hours 15 minutes long; 37% weighting.
Paper 2 covers modules 1, 2, 4 and 6; it 2 hours 15 minutes long; 37% weighting.
Paper 3 covers modules 1 – 6; it has a weighting of 26%.
