Human Biology is the perfect choice for students interested in understanding how the human body works, how diseases develop, and how science can be used in medical diagnosis and treatment. Whether you’re aiming for a career in biomedical science, healthcare, or life sciences, this course provides a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience.

This Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A Level and carries equivalent UCAS points.

• GCSE English Language grade 4 or above is desirable
• GCSE Mathematics grade 4 or above
• 5-5 or 5-6 in combined science or 2 science GCSEs at grade 5 or above

Year 1:

Unit F170 – Fundamentals of human biology (written exam)

Knowledge learnt in this unit will create a solid foundation in the fundamentals of human biology that you will be able to build on in your further study through the additional units.

Unit 172 – Genetics (internally assessed)

This unit explores the principles of inheritance, including DNA structure, cell division, and gene expression. It also covers genetic counselling, genetic testing, and developments in gene therapy and genetic engineering. This will give you insight into how genetics shapes health and treatment.

Unit 173 – Biomedical techniques (internally assessed)

This unit introduces the role of biomedical science in diagnostics and healthcare. You’ll develop practical skills through laboratory work, including microscopy and molecular testing, culminating in planning and carrying out a clinical investigation. This will prepare you for further study or work in medical laboratory settings.

Year 2:

Unit F171 – Health and disease (written exam)

This unit covers the causes, effects, and treatments of diseases. You’ll examine how immunology supports health, how to diagnose and monitor conditions, and the importance of research and confidentiality in healthcare settings. This will develop your understanding of both preventative and curative healthcare strategies.

Unit F174 – Nutrition and metabolism (internally assessed)

This unit covers the nutritional needs of the human body, focusing on dietary components, metabolic pathways, and disorders such as diabetes and obesity. You’ll investigate enzyme activity and use microscopy to study digestive tissues. This will enhance your ability to assess and support nutritional health.

Unit F175 – Human reproduction (internally assessed)

This unit explores the biological processes of human reproduction from conception through to birth. Topics include antenatal care, infertility, and assisted reproduction technologies. This will help you understand the complexities and challenges of reproductive health and fertility treatments.

Year 1:

Unit F170 – Fundamentals of Human Biology (20%)
1 hour 15 minutes written exam – 60 marks

Comprises short answer questions closed response, short answer with calculation/working and questions requiring more extended responses

Unit F172 – Genetics (15%)

Non-examined assessment (NEA) work completed under controlled conditions and assessed internally before being externally moderated by the exam board.

Unit F173 – Biomedical techniques (15%)

Non-examined assessment (NEA) work completed under controlled conditions and assessed internally before being externally moderated by the exam board.

Year 2:

Unit F171 – Health and Disease (20%)
1 hour 15 minutes written exam – 60 marks

Comprises short answer questions closed response, short answer with calculation/working and questions requiring more extended responses

Unit F174 – Nutrition and metabolism (15%)

Non-examined assessment (NEA) work completed under controlled conditions and assessed internally before being externally moderated by the exam board.

Unit F175 – Human reproduction (15%)

Non-examined assessment (NEA) work completed under controlled conditions and assessed internally before being externally moderated by the exam board.

• External assessments are graded Pass, Merit or Distinction.
• NEA units are graded Pass, Merit or Distinction.
• All units must achieve a grade to be awarded the full qualification which is graded Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*
• Further information can be found on the OCR website.

Students can progress to higher education courses and careers in human health, such as nursing, diagnostic radiography, sports and exercise science, nutrition and biomedical sciences.

Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with specific higher education providers.

Please note that this qualification will not be accepted if applying to Medicine, Veterinary Science or Dentistry.