A Level Biology

Employers sitting at desk with employees looking at a computer screen

Key Facts

Level: 3
Attendance: Full Time (FT)
Duration: 2 Years
Course Code: A1QBIO
Start Date: September 2025

Code: A1QBIO

Biology is a diverse and popular subject. Covering topical issues, such as medical science, genetic engineering, biotechnology, and the environment, you'll develop an essential knowledge and understanding of some of its key areas.

A Level Biology builds on your understanding and appreciation of scientific methods, while developing your confidence in practical skills, mathematics and problem solving. This encourages you to take an interest in global scientific issues and new developments.

Features & Benefits

Biology can be taken as part of a science-based programme, combined with Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics. Biology can also add a scientific element to a humanities-based programme.

Course Content

The course uses scientific, practical teaching and investigation wherever possible to ensure that you gain maximum enjoyment and become an enthusiastic biologist.

Year 12:

  • Biological molecules
  • Microscopy and cell structure of bacteria, plants, and animals
  • Cell division
  • Transport across cell membranes
  • Cell recognition and immunity
  • The importance of a gas exchange system in living organisms
  • Human gas exchange and what happens when things go wrong
  • Digestion of absorption of the food we eat
  • Cardiovascular system and oxygen carriage
  • DNA, genes, and chromosomes
  • Genetic diversity and mutation
  • Genetic diversity and adaptation
  • Classification of species

Year 13:

  • Photosynthesis
  • Energy transfer in an ecosystem
  • Respiration
  • Nutrient cycling
  • Responding to changes in the environment in different organisms
  • Nervous co-ordination
  • Muscles and muscle contraction
  • Homeostasis: controlling blood glucose and water level
  • Inheritance
  • Populations and evolution
  • Control of gene expression
  • Gene technology

Entry Requirements

Minimum Entry Requirements:
All Loughborough College Sixth Form courses have minimum entry requirements of at least five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language and Maths.

Subject Specific Entry Requirements:
GCSE Maths and Science (Double Science or two 'traditional' sciences) at grade 6.

Progression

A Level Biology will prepare you for further study and careers in a variety of disciplines, from medicine, physiotherapy, and biochemistry to nursing, food science, and zoology.

Why Loughborough?

94%

of learners said the College campus provides a safe environment

90%

of learners said staff valued students views and opinions about their study programme

Latest College news

View all news stories

Next Open Day

Saturday 5th October 2024

It's great to read about a college and what it has to offer, but there's really no substitute for experiencing it at an open day.

  • Talk to tutors about our courses
  • Take a tour of the college's facilities and accommodation
  • Get advice on the application process
  • Learn what it's like to be a Loughborough College student

Drone shot of Loughborough College campus

Useful links

SUPPORT Got a question?

Contact us

GUIDE How to apply

Read our guide