Applied Human Biology - BTEC
Back to Key InformationThe BTEC Level 3 Applied Human Biology course is assessed via a combination of external assessment and coursework. 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, students will build a portfolio of work which will comprise a mixture of project work, practical assessment and individual research.
This qualification is an excellent preparation for many careers such as Nursing, Health & Social Care, Sports Science, Midwifery and Occupational Health. In addition, the course can lead to progression into allied health professions such as diagnostic and therapeutic radiography, paramedicine, dietetics and many other routes.
Entry requirements
You will need grade 4,4 in Combined Science or 2 grade 4s in separate Sciences (one of which should be Biology), along with grade 4 in both GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
Course content
The course consists of the following four units which are studied over the two-year course:
Unit 1: Principles of Applied Human Biology
Unit 2: Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Unit 3: Human Biology and Health Issues
Unit 5: Diseases, Disorders, Treatments and Therapies
Approach to teaching and learning
Ø Lectures
Ø Practical activities
Ø Individual reviews with your teacher
Ø Individual research projects
Ø Group work
Ø Study packs
Ø Visits & Workshops
Assessment
Assessment is a combination of assignment-based tasks and formal examinations.
Unit 1 and Unit 3 are assessed by formal examination.
Unit 1 assessment takes the form of a 1.5 hour written examination.
Unit 3 is a synoptic assessment involving a practical investigation designed to assess the skills you have developed during Units 1 and 2.
Why study BTEC Applied Human Biology?
The BTEC National Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology is a great choice for students looking for a career where they can make a difference to the health and lives of others. The course gives students a broad understanding of biological principles including cells, tissues, biological molecules, genetics, immunology and practical microbiology as well as diseases, diagnostic techniques and treatments. As such, 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 allied health professions such as diagnostic and therapeutic radiography, paramedicine, dietetics and many other routes.
