Who is the course for?

Biology is a great choice of subject for people who want a career in health and clinical professions, such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, physiotherapy, pharmacy, optometry, medical research, nursing, zoology, microbiology or genetics, as well as a wide range of science careers. An A level in Biology is also a great choice for anyone with an interest in the subject that wishes to study it alongside a set of complementary or contrasting subjects. You should have a GCSE average of 5.5 or above and a minimum of a grade C in GCSE Science and Maths. Most students aiming to start A level Biology will achieve B grades in GCSE Science, Maths and English.

Content outline

In the first year you’ll study two modules: ‘Biology and disease’ and ‘The variety of living organisms’. In addition there is a coursework exam which is designed to sharpen your investigative skills.

Year two helps you build on the foundation of the year one and, like year one, has two academic topics plus a practical coursework assignment. The academic topics are ‘Populations and environment’, and ‘Control in cells and organisms’.

Support for potential Medics, Dentists and Vets

At Wyke we recognise that applications for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science are particularly competitve, and therefore in addition to the normal careers and UCAS support in college, we offer a specific programme to support students considering applying for these subjects. For further information about this programme, download the information leaflet.

Student Profile

Biology teacher Mark Rothery talks about the qualities that made Katherine Bailes an award winning science student.