16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

Medical Science AAQ (Level 3 Extended Certificate)

Course Overview

Course information

This Medical Science AAQ Level 3 Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A Level. It must be taken alongside Psychology A Level and with one of the following: Sociology or any of the Art & Design A Levels.

It is designed for students who want to explore the principles and applications of medical science and supports university routes including nursing, physiotherapy and psychology.

Throughout the course you will build knowledge, practical skills and study habits that support progression to higher education. You will study three mandatory areas: human physiology, anatomy and pathology, contemporary health issues and scientific reporting, and practical microbiology and infectious diseases.

You will explore diagnostic techniques, the immune system and immune dysfunction, and the growing importance of genetics and genetic technologies. You will develop research skills, interpret data, and judge the reliability and validity of different sources, from articles to scientific journals. Practical work is central, using safe laboratory practice to culture and identify micro-organisms, apply aseptic technique, and investigate how antimicrobial agents affect microbial growth. You will also choose one specialist option, either diseases, disorders, treatments and therapies, biomedical science, or human reproduction and fertility.

Key topics

  • Human physiology, anatomy and pathology
  • Cells, tissues and biological molecules for human health
  • Body systems and how they work together in health and disease
  • Diagnostic techniques and interpreting clinical style results
  • Immune system function, immune dysfunction and health initiatives
  • Genetics and genetic technologies in medical science
  • Scientific research skills, data analysis and drawing conclusions
  • Scientific reporting, including evaluating validity, reliability and bias
  • Practical microbiology, infectious diseases, and laboratory health and safety
  • Specialist option unit chosen from therapies and treatments, biomedical science, or reproduction and fertility

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

This qualification is designed to support progression to higher education as a route to graduate level employment.

It supports a wide range of degree pathways, including Nursing, Physiotherapy, Psychology, and Sport and Exercise Science.

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Facilities for Students

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Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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