Biology A Level 

Qualifications 

Exam board: Edexcel 

A Level 

https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/biology-7401-7402/specification-at-a-glance 

Entry Requirements 

GCSE Grade 6 in sciences - separate or combined. GCSE grade 5 in Maths.

Skills required 

Studying Biology develops the biological knowledge and skills to study a bioscience related degree.  

You will also gain a wealth of transferable skills such as problem solving, data analysis and teamwork that are valued in many degree programmes. 

About the course 

Biology is a two-year A level course with no external examinations at the end of year 12. The course builds on the foundations of many of the units covered at GCSE. The course is wide ranging, encompassing biochemistry, plant and animal physiology, genetics, environmental biology, evolution and conservation. 

Student testimony 

“The biology course is challenging, but really interesting. My favourite part was the biodiversity unit.”  Year 13 student 

“The course is hard, but the teachers give you lots of support.” Year 12 Student 

“I enjoyed all the practical work and field work” Year 13 student 

Career paths 

Biology is a key subject for lots of STEM careers, particularly in healthcare, medicine and jobs involving plants or animals.  

The list is long and includes nursing, dentistry, forensic science, psychology, physiotherapy, botany, environmental science, zoology, geology, oceanography, pharmaceuticals, energy, teaching, science writing, genetics, research, chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, nursing and midwifery, occupational therapy, optometry, sports science, conservation and speech therapy. 

Course outline/assessment 

Paper 1: Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics  

Externally Assessed Exam 30% 

Paper 2: Advanced Physiology, Evolution and Ecology  

Externally Assessed Exam 30% 

Paper 3:General and Practical Principles in Biology  

Externally Assessed Exam 40%