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Biology
Level 3
Further Education
Armagh Campus
Overview
Understanding biology is the key to understanding the development of life. Finding cures for diseases, tackling environmental issues and solving crimes through forensics are just some of the important roles a biologist can play in society.
You can expect to develop a wealth of knowledge on cells, human physiology, genetics and the causes of disease providing just a sample of the areas covered.
Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.
For applicants who are at least 16 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course and who have recently been in education to key stage 4, must have one of the following:
Applicants wishing to study 3 A-Levels must have achieved 5 GCSEs at Grade C. It is desirable that these should include GCSE English Language Grade C and GCSE Mathematics Grade C or above.
Applicants wishing to study 4 A-Levels must have achieved 6 GCSEs at Grade B. It is essential that these include GCSE English Language Grade C and GCSE Mathematics Grade C or above.
GCSE Double Award Science grade BB or GCSE Biology (Higher Tier) grade C or above.
BTEC First Diploma or Certificate or equivalent at Merit or above (with an overall qualification profile equivalent to 20 points or above)
Leaving Certificate – a profile equivalent to 14 points (of which 4 subjects must be achieved at Grade C3 or better at Ordinary Level) pre-2017. From 2017, 4 subjects must be achieved at 04 or better at Ordinary Level.
Attendance at IPEAS or GPEAS is essential in the selection of candidates in all courses.
It is desirable that students have attained a GCSE at grade B or above in the subject they wish to study for A Level.
Applicants wishing to study an A-Level in Biology must have obtained GCSE Double Award Science grade BB OR GCSE Biology (Higher Tier) grade C or above.
AS Content
Assessment
Weighting
Unit 1: Molecules & Cells
External written exam 1 hour 30 minutes
37.5% of AS 15% of A-Level
Unit 2: Organisms & Biodiversity
External written exam 1 hour 30 minutes
37.5% of AS 15% of A-Level
Unit 3: Practical Skills
External written exam - 1 hour Internal practical assessment
25% of AS 10% of A-Level
A2 Content
Assessment
Weighting
Unit 1: Physiology, Coordination & Control & Ecosystems
External written exam 2 hours 15 minutes
24% of A-Level
Unit 2: Biochemistry, Genetics & Evolutionary Trends
External written exam 2 hours 15 minutes
24% of A-Level
Unit 3: Practical Skills
External written exam - 1 hour Internal practical assessment
Combination of external examinations and practical assessments as outlined in the section above.
Students can progress to science subjects in higher education at other higher education institutions or consider SRC’s higher education provision including higher level apprenticeships. This subject is suitable for degrees in medicine, nursing, veterinary science or animal care.
Biology can lead on to careers in medical professions such as dentistry, nursing, physiotherapy or pharmaceutical research.