Skip to Main Content

Biology

Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from micro-organisms to mammoths. Biology is never far from the headlines either. The human genome has been sequenced and we know the complete arrangement of the three billion bases that make up human DNA which is driving exciting new avenues of research and medical advancement.

Qualifications & Assessments

Exam Board AQA
Level Level 3
Qualification A Level
Entry Requirements Entry Requirements
Photograph of some plants an A level Biology study books.

You will study 8 topics over two years: cells, how organisms exchange substances with their environments, genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms, energy transfers in and between organisms, how organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments, genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems and the control of gene expression and Biological Molecules.

All exams are taken at the end of the 2 year course.

  • Paper 1 is a written exam that assesses topics 1-4 (35%)
  • Paper 2 is a written exam that assesses topics 5-8 (35%)
  • Paper 3 is a written exam which assesses all topics and includes one essay from a choice of two titles (30%)

A Level Biology is a Russell group facilitating subject, it is one of the subjects most commonly required or preferred by universities.

An A level Biology qualification will enable you to study many subjects at university including:-

  • Agriculture
  • Biomedical Science
  • Conservation
  • Dentistry
  • Food Science
  • Genetics
  • Marine Biology
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Physiotherapy
  • Prosthetics
  • Radiography
  • Teaching
  • Veterinary Science

Throughout the course we offer many interesting and engaging trips

  • Biology Olympiad (Stretch and Challenge)
  • Ecology field trip to Ainsdale
  • Gene technology workshop
  • Lectures/workshops in college and the local area
  • Manchester Lit. and Phil. Society evening lectures
  • North West Science Network summer school
  • Nuffield Bursary placements
  • Sutton Trust summer schools

Related Courses

Skip Courses

Applied Science

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate) is designed for post-16 students interested in pursuing science beyond GCSE. Equivalent to one A Level[...]

Photograph of an applied science student conducting an experiment

Chemistry

Chemistry is a linear A level course that requires, and develops, a variety of skills from mathematical calculations and problem solving to analysis and practical skills.

Photograph of chemistry students performing an experiment

Environmental Science

This course provides an ideal base for employment, for example, ecology and wildlife conservation, land management, town planning, architecture, forestry, geology or climatology. Students could work for a charity like[...]

Photograph of Environmental Science student studying.

Further Mathematics

This subject is for those who love maths and really want to take it further. It allows you to delve deeper into the subject in a more challenging way.

Student sitting at a desk holding a pen and smiling

Geography

Geography has modules in physical and human geography. Students develop skills in mathematics, analysis and extended writing. Practical work within the specification is one of the attractions of Geography and[...]

Photograph of a student studying Geography next to a globe

Geology

Geology is the study of the earth’s past, present and future. The course involves study of a broad range of traditional geology such as Palaeontology and structural geology, balanced with[...]

Photograph of a student revising for a Geology exam

Mathematics

This course is for those who enjoy the challenges of mathematics and want an A level which is highly thought of by both employers and universities.

Photograph of an A level maths student.

Physics

The Advancing Physics course shows how Physics is exciting, always developing, of great practical use in many ways and in many careers, as well as probing some of the deepest[...]

Photograph of a physics student stood in front of a whiteboard.

Psychology

The Psychology course is an investigation into mind and behaviour. The course assumes no prior knowledge of the subject and will appeal to anyone who is interested in understanding and[...]

Photograph of a Psychology student studying

Statistics

Using and understanding data is becoming increasingly important in many areas of study and employment. Understanding of statistics is a crucial skill, and this A Level aims to give students[...]

Photograph of a student with a calculator
News & Blog

Latest From Aquinas

Aquinas College and the University of Salford have formalised their long standing partnership, cementing a relationship which will provide Aquinas students even greater access to the university’s world class facilities, industry leading expertise and academic insights.

A photograph of a group of people who were involved in the Salford Memorandum of Understanding signing event

A group of Aquinas students who took part in the college’s Camino pilgrimage in 2025 were so inspired by the experience that they decided to continue the journey independently this summer in 2026, with plans to make it a regular part of their summers together.

Photograph of students on a Camino pilgrimage

Students at Aquinas College are celebrating an excellent set of results, continuing the college’s longstanding record of success. College principal, Jo Dommett, said ‘following on from our best ever results last year, it’s fantastic to see the class of 2026 do even better. The number of students securing the very highest grades is particularly impressive. […]

Group of students celebrating their 2026 A level results

All lower sixth biology students were invited to participate in a variety of practical sessions at the University of Salford. Students experienced working in a ‘megalab’ which could accommodate over 140 students. Students were provided with DNA from two different species of protists. They completed practical work amplifying the DNA using a polymerase chain reaction […]

Students carrying out an experiment at the University of Salford