Human Biology AS and A2 Level

Human Biology AS and A2

Subject category:
Science and Mathematics

What will I study?
In the first year of your course you will study two AS units, the first of which will introduce basic biological principles through the study of disease and healthy lifestyle. In your second unit you will learn about humans - their origins and adaptations through the study of DNA, inheritance, human evolution and how human are adapted to their environment. In the first A2 unit, you will learn how nervous and hormonal coordination systems function to ensure the body works efficiently. You will also study human growth and development, from infancy to adulthood through to effects of aging. In the second unit you will study the role of humans in ecosystems and how human activity influences the environment.

Duration:
One year for AS Level and a further year to complete A Level.

Do I need any additional qualifications/ skills?
You will need to be highly motivated, determined and hard working as Human Biology is a demanding subject with a high workload.

How will I be assessed?
For both AS and A2 you will take two unit exams, one in January and the second in June. In addition there is a centre assessed exam which tests your investigative and practical skills.

What can I do afterwards?
Human Biology is a fascinating and diverse subject, which is reflected in the diversity of degree courses available. You can chose to study either a broad-based biological science course or one in which you specialise in an area of particular interest, for example, molecular genetics, physiology, or animal science. For most biology-based degrees, you will also need chemistry. Biology is an important subject if you wish to study medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy and veterinary science.

Are there any additional costs involved?
You will need to buy a text book for AS and A2. You will also be invited to subscribe to a biological science magazine, and attend conferences and workshops.

Location:
Lewes 6th Form College

Entry Requirements
You will need to have achieved the following: Minimum of grade BB (core and additional) in GCSE Science (GCSE Applied Science or GCSE single science is not accepted). If you are taking separate sciences, a minimum of grade B in Biology and B in Chemistry. Grade C in Mathematics and English Language GCSE. This is in addition to the standard College entry requirements for the programme you have chosen.