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Human Biology (AAQ)

Course Code

Human Biology AAQ

Course Type

BTEC Course

Course Duration

2 years

Location

Cadbury College

Start Date

1 September, 2025

If you’re interested in biology, forensics, or health sciences, this Human Biology (AAQ) course is for you! It’s ideal for students who enjoy science and want a future in life sciences, biomedical research, or healthcare. It pairs perfectly with A Level Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Sport.

What You’ll Study:

You’ll cover key topics like:

Human Biology – Cells, organs, hormones, the brain, and microbiology
Health & Disease – Causes of illness, treatments, diagnostics, and the immune system
Genetics – Inheritance, genetic testing, counselling, and gene therapy
Biomedical Techniques – Lab skills, diagnostics, clinical investigations

In Year 2, you’ll choose two optional units based on your interests, including:

Nutrition and metabolism
Human reproduction
The brain
Drug development

This Human Biology (AAQ) course combines theory with hands-on lab work—perfect for curious minds ready to explore how science is used in the real world.

Modules:

F170 Fundamentals of human biology (Exam)
F171 Health and Disease (Exam)
F172 Genetics (Internal assessment)
F173 Biomedical techniques (Internal assessment)
F174 Nutrition and metabolism (Internal assessment)
F175 Human reproduction (Internal assessment)
F176 The brain (Internal assessment)
F177 Drug development (Internal assessment)

To study a BTEC Level 3 course, students are required to achieve a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including Maths & English. For Human Biology (AAQ), you will also need to achieve a minimum of two grade 4s in Science GCSE.

At Cadbury College, we believe education goes beyond the classroom. Our diverse and inclusive enrichment programme offers a wide range of activities designed to help you explore your interests, build confidence, and develop valuable skills for university and the workplace.

From creative and academic clubs to sports, volunteering, and leadership opportunities, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include:

High Achievers Programme – Support for high-achieving students applying to top universities.
Envision – A chance to develop employability skills by tackling real-life social issues.
Duke of Edinburgh Award – Take on the challenge of the prestigious Silver or Gold Award.
Medicine Society – Specialist guidance for aspiring medical students, in partnership with local universities.
Five-a-Side Football or Basketball – Join Cadbury’s own league and enjoy competitive, inclusive football or basketball with friends.
Bar Mock Trial – Step into the courtroom and compete nationally in this programme for future legal professionals.

Whatever your passion, enrichment at Cadbury College gives you the chance to grow, connect, and make the most of your time here.

40% Examined content

60% Internally assessed content (NEA)

This approach is designed to develop both theoretical knowledge as well as the skills to apply that knowledge in a range of contexts, therefore developing a broad and relevant set of skills and experiences.

Throughout the Human Biology (AAQ) course students will be given support on developing their exam technique and getting used the different style of exam questions compared to GCSE. Past papers, past questions booklets, peer-peer marking, regular teacher marking.

Students can go on to university courses, straight to the world of work or apply for Level 3 or 4 Apprenticeships in a range of fields depending on their other two level three courses. Life Science routes, Human Biology or Zoology as well as Biomedical or nursing linked routes are open in addition to the Arts or Humanities. Politics, journalism or marketing roles could also be a progression route.

Course Details

Exam Board

OCR

Qualification

Level 3

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Cadbury College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.

Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

FAQs

What is the Human Biology (AAQ) course?

The Human Biology (AAQ) is a Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) designed for students who are interested in biology, healthcare, biomedical science, and forensic science. It combines scientific theory with practical laboratory work to prepare students for university, apprenticeships, or careers in the life sciences.

What will I study on the Human Biology AAQ course?

You’ll study how the human body works, how diseases develop, and how biology is applied in healthcare and medical science. Core topics include human biology, health and disease, genetics, and biomedical techniques. In your second year, you’ll also study optional specialist units such as nutrition and metabolism, human reproduction, the brain and drug development.

Is Human Biology AAQ equivalent to an A Level?

Yes. The Human Biology AAQ is equivalent to one A Level and carries UCAS points for university entry.

Is Human Biology coursework or exam-based?

The qualification uses a mixture of assessment methods. Students complete two externally assessed examinations, internal assessments and practical assignments, laboratory investigations, scientific reports and coursework. This provides a balance between exams and practical assessment.

Can I go to university with Human Biology AAQ?

Yes. The qualification carries UCAS points and is designed to support progression into higher education. Students commonly progress to degree subjects including biomedical science, nursing, physiotherapy, pharmacy, forensic science, human biology, healthcare science and sports science. Always check the entry requirements for your chosen university.

What careers can Human Biology AAQ lead to?

Human Biology AAQ provides an excellent foundation for careers in biomedical science, nursing, physiotherapy, paramedic science, pharmaceutical science, healthcare science, clinical research. It also prepares students for higher apprenticeships in healthcare and science.

What skills will I develop?

Throughout the course you’ll develop laboratory skills, scientific investigation techniques, research and analytical skills, critical thinking, data interpretation, scientific report writing, and problem-solving. These transferable skills are highly valued by universities and employers.

What subjects combine well with Human Biology?

Human Biology pairs particularly well with subjects including biology, chemistry, psychology, health & social care, sociology, and sport. These combinations are ideal for students considering careers in medicine, healthcare, biomedical science, or sport and exercise science.

What are the entry requirements?

To study Human Biology (AAQ), you’ll normally need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths and at least two GCSE Science qualifications at grade 4 or above. Please check the latest admissions information before applying.

Is Human Biology a good alternative to A Level Biology?

Yes. Human Biology is ideal for students who enjoy biology but also want a more applied, career-focused approach. The course places greater emphasis on human health, disease, biomedical science, practical laboratory skills and real-world healthcare applications. It’s an excellent option for students considering healthcare or life science careers.

Why study Human Biology at Cadbury College?

At Cadbury College, you’ll benefit from modern science laboratories, practical biomedical investigations, experienced science tutors, a qualification designed for progression into healthcare and life sciences, strong links between classroom learning and real-world medical applications. Whether you’re aiming for a career in nursing, biomedical science, forensic science, physiotherapy, or another healthcare profession, the Human Biology (AAQ) course provides an excellent foundation for your future.

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