Applied Human Biology (BTEC Level 3)

Why study Applied Human Biology?

Ever wanted to know more about the human body and the way in which systems within the body work together to allow it to function correctly? This course introduces these ideas as well as more vocationally linked topics to prepare you for a career in the science industry. Applied Human Biology is a great choice if you are looking to make a difference to the health and lives of others. It provides an alternative route to a variety of science or health-based degree courses or prepares you for the world of work. Human Biology will further develop applied knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to medical science. This qualification includes topics like health, diseases and nutrition. It will help students develop independence and confidence in communication, research, presentation and study skills, transferable both to higher education and the world of work.

Entry Requirements

In addition to our general entry requirements, you must have:

• GCSE English – grade 3
• GCSE Maths – grade 4
• GCSE Science – grade 4 (or Merit in Level 2 BTEC/OCR Science)

The Course

This course is designed to prepare you for employment in a laboratory or care environment or for entry to an appropriate university course. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about this employment area, you will develop important skills for a science career – the development of practical skills is a major part of the course. You will also learn through independent research using resources at college and information gathered on educational visits. The course works well combined with A level Physical Education, the Sport Extended Certificate or Diploma courses or Health and Social Care.

Course Activities

Learners will experience a wide range of activities and assessments. Assignments and coursework as well as more practical assessment form a large part of this course. You will work independently and in groups and will use a variety of methods to present your work, such as posters, leaflets, scientific reports, whole class presentations and videos. You will need to conduct a significant amount of independent research to be successful on the course and will find, analyse and draw conclusions from a variety of media.

Career and Progression Opportunities

This course will prepare you for a career in a variety of science-based industries or for entry to an appropriate university course. This course is particularly suitable if you are interested in working in the fields of nursing, biomedical science, health and social care, sport science, physiotheraphy, midwifery, occupational health, forensic science or pharmaceuticals. This course would therefore work well alongside A Level PE, BTEC Sport or BTEC Health & Social Care.

Course Structure and Assessment

This is a two-year course and is the equivalent of one A Level. Assessment will be in the form of two externally-assessed exams and four non-examined assessment (NEA) coursework units. The optional units that are chosen are subject to change.

Additional Information

Examination Board: OCR

Case Study