Applied Human Biology, BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate

This course concentrates on the knowledge, skills and techniques found in real-life medical science situations. It includes research, practical work and problem-solving and will build on scientific skills and knowledge of key ideas in Biology and Chemistry.

In addition to students being assessed via external examination, they will build a portfolio of work which will comprise a mixture of project work, practical assessment and individual research.

Applied Human Biology can be studied alongside a range of A Levels or other BTEC Level 3 courses and particularly complements Health & Social Care and Sport/PE. 

This BTEC Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A Level in any of the separate Science subjects and can be used in the same way:

• For university applications
• To apply for further training or a job

Students have progressed on to a variety of Science and non-Science related degree courses.  

Science subjects have included: Physiotherapy, Paramedical Science, Sports Therapy, Nursing, Midwifery, Biomedical Science and Social and Sports Science. 

Non-Science subjects have included: Teaching, Accountancy, Computing and many more!

What topics does this course cover?

• Fundamentals of Human body systems including cells, organs and systems
• Infectious Agents and Human Disease
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Human Health Care Initiatives

Course Specific Trips & Visits

Applied Science students have the opportunity to take part in a variety of course related experiences. In recent years, these have included:

• Biomedical Science Journal Club

• Operating Theatre Live

• New Scientist Live

In addition to course specific experiences, students also have the opportunity to get involved in the College’s Activities Programme.

All students need to gain an experience of the work place during their time at College and for students studying vocational courses it should ideally be linked to one of their subject areas.

The BTEC Level 3 Applied Human Biology course is assessed via a combination of external assessment and coursework. As they progress through the course, students will produce a portfolio of work, and be assessed on practical assignments, experimental work, research tasks and project work.

The exam board for this course is Pearson BTEC.

All students need to have at least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above (and a satisfactory school reference) in order to be accepted on an A Level/BTEC Level 3 Programme. 

In addition, students will need the following minimum combination of GCSE grades:

• Grade 4 in Biology or Chemistry, or Grade 4,4 in Combined Science and
• Grade 4 in Maths
• Grade 4 in a literate subject such as English or History

Students will be successful on the course if they:

• Have a genuine interest in scientific ideas
• Are interested in the application of Science
• Enjoy a variety of different coursework types
• Would welcome the opportunity to develop practical skills

Students should enjoy practical work, be good at problem solving and enjoy working with numbers. As this qualification involves a significant amount of portfolio work, students will need to meet regular deadlines throughout the year.

What practical skills are covered on the course?

Applied Science is based on what Scientists actually do in their jobs, in addition to their subject areas. It:

• Concentrates on the knowledge, skills and techniques found in real life situations
• Includes research, practical work and problem-solving
• Builds up scientific skills and knowledge of key areas in Biology and Chemistry

Can I go to Uni with this qualification?

Yes, 60% of students progress to University with this qualification.

What is the difference between Applied Human Biology and A Level Biology?

In both subjects, you will study cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and inheritance, muscles and nervous system and infection and immunity.

In Applied Human Biology, you will also learn about infectious organisms and health care initiatives.

In A Level Biology 25% of the course involves the study of biodiversity, conservation, evolution and the effect of climate change on ecology and ecosystems.

In Applied Human Biology, 58% of your mark will be from two exams taken over the two years with the opportunity to retake. The rest of the grade will be awarded from coursework, whereas A Level Biology is assessed via 100% examination at the end of two years.

Can I study A Level Biology and Applied Human Biology?

Yes – although it is preferable to study a broader range of subjects at Level 3.

Should I study this course as a basis for an animal-based university course?

Applied Human Biology is often accepted on animal-based courses, but if you have a particular course in mind it is best to contact the university admissions officer and check the requirements with UCAS.