BTEC National Alternative Academic Qualification in Medical Science (previously EC Human Biology)

Science / Full Time / A Levels and Equivalent

This qualification is equivalent to one A Level and it has been designed to be part of a typical two-year study programme, alongside A Levels. It is a great choice if you are looking for a career where you would like to make a difference to the health and lives of others. It is suitable for students looking to develop their applied knowledge and skills in medical sciences as part of a study programme alongside two other level 3 qualifications, such as physical education, sociology, chemistry and psychology (due to course similarity it would be unsuitable to study biology alongside).

The course gives you a broad understanding of biological principles including cells, tissues, biological molecules, genetics, immunology, pathology and practical skills in microbiology as well as diseases, diagnostic techniques and treatments. You will learn how to carry out investigations using a variety of tests and techniques essential to laboratory practice. You will complete a range of written reports, projects, practical assessments and presentations.

What will the course involve?

The course involves a combination of internally and externally assessed components and consists of the following four units which are studied over two-years. You will be able to see how your achievements build up as the course proceeds. The combination of assignment tasks and formal examinations will provide you with an excellent skills base which will help you progress in your chosen career path.

Year 1

Unit 1: Human Physiology, Anatomy & Pathology  Human body systems, cell ultrastructure, and how substances are transported.  This is assessed in a 1.5hr exam.

Unit 3: Practical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases Methods of pathogenicity and infectious agents, growth of microorganisms and health and safety in a laboratory environment. This is an assignment based unit (internally assessed)

Year 2

Unit 2: Health Issues and Scientific Reporting – The immune system, its dysfunction and genetic technologies; the validity and reliability of information used in health science reporting.  This is assessed in a 2 hrs exam. 

Unit 6: Human Reproduction and Fertility – Reproductive science including causes of infertility and associated impacts on health and well-being. This is an assignment based unit (internally assessed)

In addition to gaining knowledge, understanding and application skills, students will also gain transferable skills valued by employers and universities, such as:

- Self-reflection
- Critical thinking
- Collaborative work
- Presentation skills
- Analytical skills

The units are assessed either by external or internal assessment.

• External examinations – all learners take the same assessment at the same time, normally with a written outcome.
• Set tasks internally assessed – learners take the assessment during a defined assignment window and demonstrate understanding through completion of a vocational task.

Some external assessments include a period of preparation using set information. External assessments are available twice a year and students may have the opportunity to resit them.

For internally assessed units, assignments will be completed. One resubmission is allowed per assignment.

This qualification is an excellent preparation for many careers such as Nursing, Sports Science, Midwifery, Occupational Health and Health & Social Care. In addition, the course can lead to progression into a range of allied health professions such as diagnostic and therapeutic radiography, paramedicine, dietetics and many other routes.

You will require five GCSEs at grade 4 in line with general entry requirements for A Level, including English Language or Literature at grade 5 or above and a 5 in Biology or 55 in Combined Science. 

We encourage all students to read widely and conduct their own research into the topics they are studying. You will be expected to undertake at least 4-6 hours of independent study time per week. There is a wide range of support material available in the Learning Resource Centres and on the course OneNote site. Throughout the year, you will be able to access additional support and opportunities to stretch and challenge you.

Awarding Body
Pearson

To obtain more information about this course, please call: 01208 224000 or email enquiry@callywith.ac.uk