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Biology

Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from micro-organisms to mammoths. Biology is never far from the headlines either. The human genome has been sequenced and we know the complete arrangement of the three billion bases that make up human DNA which is driving exciting new avenues of research and medical advancement.

Qualifications & Assessments

Exam Board AQA
Level Level 3
Qualification A Level
Entry Requirements Entry Requirements
Photograph of some plants an A level Biology study books.

You will study 8 topics over two years: cells, how organisms exchange substances with their environments, genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms, energy transfers in and between organisms, how organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments, genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems and the control of gene expression and Biological Molecules.

All exams are taken at the end of the 2 year course.

  • Paper 1 is a written exam that assesses topics 1-4 (35%)
  • Paper 2 is a written exam that assesses topics 5-8 (35%)
  • Paper 3 is a written exam which assesses all topics and includes one essay from a choice of two titles (30%)

A Level Biology is a Russell group facilitating subject, it is one of the subjects most commonly required or preferred by universities.

An A level Biology qualification will enable you to study many subjects at university including:-

  • Agriculture
  • Biomedical Science
  • Conservation
  • Dentistry
  • Food Science
  • Genetics
  • Marine Biology
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Physiotherapy
  • Prosthetics
  • Radiography
  • Teaching
  • Veterinary Science

Throughout the course we offer many interesting and engaging trips

  • Biology Olympiad (Stretch and Challenge)
  • Ecology field trip to Ainsdale
  • Gene technology workshop
  • Lectures/workshops in college and the local area
  • Manchester Lit. and Phil. Society evening lectures
  • North West Science Network summer school
  • Nuffield Bursary placements
  • Sutton Trust summer schools

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