Biology (A-level)
Students will study a variety of topics including the development of practical skills in biology; foundations in biology; exchange and transport; biodiversity, evolution and disease; communication, homeostasis and energy; and genetics, evolution and ecosystems.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
Students will study a variety of topics including:
- Development of practical skills in biology
- Foundations in biology
- Exchange and transport
- Biodiversity, evolution and disease
- Communication, homeostasis and energy
- Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
If you are interested in studying A-level Biology, you may also be interested in our additional pathways, the T-level in Health, the T-level in Science or the Advanced Technical Diploma in Animal Management. All A-level applicants are encouraged to research alternative pathways before accepting their offer to study A-levels.
Entry Requirements
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 5.
In addition, you should have GCSE Combined Science at grade 6,6 or above. If you have taken Triple Science, then Biology must be at grade 6, with the other two sciences at grade 4.
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students will enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.
What will you learn?
- Module 1: Development of practical skills – this module underpins the whole of the course and covers the practical skills that students should develop throughout. The practical skills in this module can be assessed within written examinations and within the Practical Endorsement.
- Module 2: Foundations in biology – covering concepts required throughout the remaining modules
- Modules 3 and 4: Exchange and transport, biodiversity, evolution and disease
- Modules 5 and 6: Communication, homeostasis and energy, genetics, evolution and ecosystems
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.
What will you need to bring with you?
N/A
How will you be assessed?
You will be assessed by external examination at the end of Year 2.
Where next?
Careers
The list of career opportunities is varied and endless, including:
- Academic and research roles
- Biological technology
- Medical and health services
- Genetic counselling
- Health education
- Biochemistry
- Pharmaceutical/medical product sales
- Marine biology
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Rabina Burlakoti
Rabina Burlakoti (20) was elated to have achieved three Bs in A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.
I have loved it at Derby College and have especially enjoyed the practical side of the education.
Sarah White
Professor Sarah White looks back fondly on her time as an A-level student at South East Derbyshire College, now part of Derby College Group.
I enjoyed my years at South East Derbyshire College. At that time if you were registered on certain courses, you could access evening classes at college for free or at a substantially discounted rate.
Shareen Akhtar
RSPCA vet “100 per cent” owes job she loves to Derby
Going to Derby College for my A levels is 100 per cent the reason why I'm now a qualified vet doing a job I absolutely love. I was quite good at chemistry and biology but I found physics difficult. Fortunately I had a very supportive physics tutor who found ways to make the subject easier for me to learn. My grades shot up in my repeated year to three As.
Course Information Last Updated On: September 19, 2024 12:14 pm
