AAQ Medical Science Level 3 (Single)

With this qualification, students will be able to progress onto a career in healthcare (such as nursing, radiography, physiotherapy), biomedical research, and life sciences.
  • Pathway(s):
  • Exam Board:
  • Edexcel/Pearson

What Will I Study?

This course is based on the biology and biochemistry that would support a role in healthcare.

  • Unit 1 – Principles of Human Physiology, Anatomy and Pathology – students will explore the biological principles that underpin medical science
  • Unit 2 – Health Issues and Scientific Reporting – students will further develop their understanding of medical science through learning about contemporary health issues, alongside developing knowledge about scientific analysis, evaluation and reporting
  • Unit 3 – Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases – students will investigate the effect of antimicrobial agents on the growth of microorganisms, by selecting and applying knowledge of microorganisms and infectious diseases
  • Unit 5 – Biomedical Science – this unit will help students understand the role biomedical scientists play in identifying the causes of disease and in helping medical personnel to offer suitable treatments

How Will I Be Assessed?

Students are assessed using a combination of internal assessments (coursework), which are marked by teachers, and external assessments (exams) which are set and marked by Pearson:

  • Mandatory units have a combination of internal and external assessments
  • All optional units are internally assessed
  • Exams are in January or June
  • Students have the ability to re-sit exams in AAQs if required

What Could I Do Next?

This qualification can lead to progression to the following degrees:

  • BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult Health/Child Health/Mental Health)
  • BSc (Hons) Psychology
  • BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

Alternatively, you could pursue a career in laboratories, research institutions or clinical healthcare settings. Many students also progress into science-related apprenticeships or technical roles

You can successfully pursue a degree, apprenticeship or employment after this course.

Please note it is not possible to apply for medicine or dentistry with this qualification.

Subject Specific Entry Requirements

  • Grade 5-4 in Combined science or a grade 5 in one of the science GCSEs (ideally biology)
  • Grade 4 in English

Where Can I Get More Information?

For more information please contact:

  • Head of Faculty: Miss E. Bird

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