A Level Biology

Please refer to EN's Entry Requirements Guide for specific advice on our Admissions Policy. This guide is supplied at interview to prospective students and is also available to Schools & Careers Advisers.

A level Biology (Specification A) will give you an exciting insight into the contemporary world of biology. It covers the key concepts of biology, and practical skills are integrated throughout the course. This combination of academic challenge and practical focus makes the prospect of studying A level Biology highly appealing. You will learn about the impact of biological research and how it links to everyday life. You will also learn to apply your knowledge, investigating and solving problems in a range of contexts.

The course is split into six modules; modules 1, 2, 3 and 4 are common to both AS and A-level, and modules 5 and 6 are covered in the second year.

Topics include:

Developing practical skills in biology

Cell structure

Biological molecules

Cell division

Transport in animals and plants

Communicable diseases

Biodiversity

The biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis

Gene structure

Manipulating genomes

Biotechnology

Ecosystems

…and many more!

Exam - 100%

Two grade 6s or better in GCSE Sciences; these can be from combined sciences or if triple science has been taken, then one of these must be in Biology. GCSE grade 5 or better in Maths is also required.

Three examination papers taken at the end of the two year course. A wide range of question types including: multiple choice, short answer and extended response questions. (37%, 37%, 26%)

The opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of both theory and practical skills is through the examinations.

If the AS only is taken, then the assessment is split over two examined papers, with a similar format to the outline above. (50% each exam).

A level Biology can open up a range of career opportunities including: biological research, medical, environmental, forensics, sports and science communication. The transferable skills you will learn, such as problem solving, are also useful for many other areas, such as law.