Careers start here.

Your Study Options

Smart Search Courses

    Please note that all courses are subject to a minimum number in order to run

    About the course

    Studying biology will help you develop a curiosity about the natural world, give an insight into how science works and give an appreciation of its relevance to everyday life. The scope and nature of this biology course is broad, coherent and practical.

    Entry requirements

    Maths and English GCSE (or equivalent) are desirable, but each individual case will be considered.

    How much does it cost?

    £400 for Adult learners (Free to current Access students that provide evidence of GCSE Biology as a requirement for University entry; Free to Adult learners on low income or with qualifying benefits).

    Awarding Body

    EDEXCEL

    Why study?

    You will gain scientific knowledge and understand the concepts of Biology.

    You will develop an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science, through different types of scientific enquiries that help you to answer scientific questions about biological topics.

    You will also learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills in the laboratory, in the field and in other learning environments.

    The key ideas specific to the Biology content include:

    • life processes – animal and plant physiology
    • the fundamental units of living organisms - cells
    • how living organisms forming populations of single species, communities of many speciesand ecosystems
    • how life on Earth is dependent on photosynthesis in green plants 
    • how chemicals in ecosystems are continually cycling through the natural world
    • how the characteristics of a living organism are influenced by its genetics and its interaction with the environment
    • how evolution occurs by a process of natural selection 

    Where will this course take me?

    With English, Maths and a science GCSE such as this one, you could progress onto an Access course in Health science or Midwifery and Nursing, a Btec Level 2 or 3 in Applied Science. Alternatively you could use this to meet the qualifications for Initial Teacher Training programmes or Nursing training programmes.

    You could progress onto an Access course in Health science or Midwifery and Nursing or a BTEC Level 2 or 3 in Applied Science. Alternatively, this qualification could help you meet the  requirements for Initial Teacher Training programmes or Nursing training programmes.

    Core modules

    • Cells and genetics
    • evolution
    • health and disease
    • plant structure and function
    • animal physiology
    • ecosystems and environmental changes

    How will I be assessed?

    There are two written exams with a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions.

    Carrying out biological practical work, for example, dissections and enzyme investigations.

    Will I have to provide anything?

    All practical equipment will be provided but you will need to provide your own stationary (pens/pencils/ruler/rubber/writing paper) and a calculator. You will be able to purchase PPE (labcoat and goggles) through us.

    I'm interested. What should I do now?

    Call 01279 868100 and talk to an Admissions Adviser
    Ask Us a question about this course
    apply