ED6 Sixth Form
Course overview
Fascinated by what makes the human body work? Love science? Then A Level Biology at East Durham Sixth Form could be the course for you!
Our highly experienced science lecturers have a fantastic track record of getting exceptional grades out of our biology students.
There exists a wide variety of higher education options that are related to biology. For example, A Level Biology can support entry into: medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, physiotherapy, radiography, occupational therapy, all branches of nursing, psychology, biomedical sciences, environmental science, ecology, genetics and scientific research.
Topics
1. Biological molecules - the basic chemistry of living organisms, necessary knowledge for all further study of Biology.
2. Cells - the ultrastructure of cells as seen by electron microscopy; practical light microscopy.
3. Organisms - exchange substances with their environment; gas exchange, circulation and digestion.
4. Genetics - genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. The study of DNA and RNA, mitosis and meiosis.
5. Energy - energy transfers in and between organisms; Photosynthesis, Respiration and ecosystems.
6. Organisms respond to changes – responses to internal and external environmental changes; homeostasis, the nervous and hormonal systems.
7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems - Inheritance of characteristics. Evolution and speciation.
8. The control of gene expression - DNA technology.
Job opportunities after this course
There is wide variety of higher education options that are related to biology. For example, Biology A level can support entry into: medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, physiotherapy, radiography, occupational therapy, all branches of nursing, psychology, biomedical sciences, environmental science, ecology, genetics and scientific research.
Further study options after this course
University to study a Biology related degree. Physiotherapy, Nursing, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Paramedic, Dentistry.
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are reviewed annually and are subject to change as qualifications, awarding bodies and assessment criteria evolve.
For the latest qualifications and grades required by course type/level, please follow this link to check the most up-to-date entry criteria for direct entry and internal progression at the college.
How is this course assessed?
Paper 1 - 2 hour, 91 mark exam covering topics 1 - 4;
Paper 2 - 2 hour, 91 mark exam covering topics 5 - 8;
Paper 3 - 2 hour, 78 mark exam covering all topics and practical skills, alongside a 25 mark essay.
When does the course start?
September 2025
Length of course
Two years, full time.
Fees & Funding
Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
How to apply
To apply online for this course, please click on the 'Apply' button at the top/bottom of this page.
Alternatively, if you need assistance with your application or you would like to apply over the phone or using a paper-based application form, please call Student Services on 0191 743 0149.
If you're not quite ready to apply for this course and would like some more information or to speak to a member of staff then please click on the 'Enquire' button at the top/bottom of this page.
