About the course

The Extended Certificate in Human Biology is designed to support students into pathways within the medical sciences. On this course you will use a variety of learning techniques, including laboratory sessions, classroom learning and your own independent work to cover topics which include: 

- Fundamentals of human biology

- Health and disease

- Genetics 

- Biomedical techniques 

- Nutrition and metabolism 

- The Brain

- Drug development 

Throughout this course you will be supported by subject experts who will guide you through your examinations and coursework to develop skills relevant to work in the medical industry. This course will complement other subjects such as: Psychology, Physical Education, or any other subject which draws on the science of being human. 

Start Date/s

02/09/2026

Entry Requirements

Grade 5-5 in Science plus 5 Grade 5s in GCSEs including English and Maths

Modules

- Fundamentals of human biology (Mandatory Exam)

- Health and disease (Mandatory Exam)

- Genetics (Mandatory NEA)

- Biomedical techniques (Mandatory NEA)

- Nutrition and metabolism (optional NEA unit - TBC)

- The Brain  (optional NEA unit - TBC)

- Drug development  (optional NEA unit - TBC)

The Extended certificate asks students to complete the 4 mandatory units, and then 2 from the optional units - these will be chosen based on the subject expertise of the teaching team in the year and majority student choice. 

Assessment

There are two externally assessed units (exam) and four internally assessed (externally moderated) non-exam assessed units (commonly known as coursework). 

These will also rely on laboratory practise and techniques learnt in the lab. 

Careers & Progression

This qualification looks to allow progression into medical careers as well as complementing the study of the human body to allow progression into higher education qualifications. 

The course emphasises the development of transferrable skills including 

 Communication

• Creativity

• Critical thinking

• Independent learning

• Presentation skills

• Problem solving

• Referencing

• Reflection

• Research skills

• Self-directed study

• Time management

• Writing for different purposes

Additional Details