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Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

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Biology

Biology

Two students studying biology, one looking in microscope and the other writing.

WJEC A-level Biology

So what is Biology? Put simply, it is the study of life and all the wonder that surrounds it.

LEARNERS:
ID: 1023

Is this course right for me?

Through a variety of teaching methods such as taught lessons, peer teaching, group work and a range of activities, your understanding of the implications of modern Biology will be developed along with the importance of understanding environmental, ethical, and social issues and their consequences.

  • Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy
  • Biology grade B (plus another Science at grade B) or Science grade BB and Maths grade B 
  • Please check the AS Level Options Grid to see if this subject fits into your chosen programme
  • Each application is considered on individual merit
  • Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
  • Successful completion of relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting

During the course you will have the opportunity to take part in a number of extra-curricular activities such as: attending careers in health events at the Heath Hospital; attending Wales Gene Park conferences and workshops; and being invited to talks by expert guest speakers in conjunction with the Darwin Centre.

Through a number of practical activities including, genetic engineering, food testing, heart and kidney dissection, chromatography, respiration in insects and plants and bacterial experiments, we aim to give our students the confidence and knowledge to progress into their chosen field.

Units to be studied include:

  • Basic biochemistry and cell organisation
  • Biodiversity and physiology of body systems
  • Energy, homeostasis and the environment
  • Variation, inheritance and options
  • Practical skills

Learners also complete the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and are required to develop their essential skills (communication/numeracy and digital skills). Learners will also attend a weekly group tutorial.

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:
  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
Click below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College

Learners are able to complete either the full qualification or certain units or elements through the medium of Welsh/bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Practical examination
  • Written examination

This course can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities in a varied range of businesses including: Academic researcher, Biotechnologist, Higher education lecturer, Marine biologist, Microbiologist, Nanotechnologist, Nature conservation officer, Pharmacologist, Research scientist (life sciences), Scientific laboratory technician, Secondary school teacher, Soil scientist, Teaching laboratory technician.

If you are thinking about studying at degree level following this course please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.

  • Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
  • Text books - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most text books are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
  • You will need to provide you own lab coat
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

  • No tuition fee
  • We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2024/25
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

Additional information

Mode:

Online Learning Elements?

Yes

Level:

Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.

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Last updated: 24/10/2023
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
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