AAQ Medical Science

You will need 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Science, Maths & English Language

The course is graded A*-E and each grade is worth the following UCAS points:

- Grade A = 56 UCAS points
- Grade B = 48 UCAS points
- Grade C = 32 UCAS points
- Grade D = 24 UCAS points
- Grade A = 12 UCAS points

50% externally-assessed examinations and 50% internally-assessed assignments.
You will complete one externally-examined unit and one internally-assessed unit in each year of this two-year course.

Year 1:
External Exam – Unit 1: Principles of Human Physiology, Anatomy and Pathology
Internal Assignments – Unit 3: Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Year 2:
External Exam – Unit 2: Health Issues and Scientific Reporting
Internal Assignments – Unit 5: Biomedical Science

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications before you enrol.

At Northumberland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

You will study 3 A Level (or equivalent) subjects over two years, with each subject taught for 4 hours 30 minutes per week across three separate lessons.Your timetable will be determined by your three chosen subjects.
Although you are not required to be on campus when you do not have a timetabled lesson, we strongly recommend making effective use of our learning facilities and resources during these study periods to stay on top of your work.

Modules/course content:

Unit 1: Principles of Human Physiology, Anatomy & Pathology
Students study body systems such as cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal and renal/digestive systems; cell structure, transport and organisation; and how pathology (disease) affects human physiology.

Unit 2: Health Issues and Scientific Reporting
Covers diagnostic techniques, immune system and its disorders, genetics and cancer; students also learn how to interpret, analyse and evaluate scientific information in a health science context.

Unit 3: Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Focuses on microorganisms, classification, infectious disease processes, antimicrobial agents and laboratory techniques, including culturing and identifying microbes.

Unit 5: Biomedical Science
Explores haematology, health screening, histology, cytology, and urinalysis. Students learn to analyse blood, tissues, cells, and urine for diagnostic purposes, developing practical and theoretical skills essential for careers in biomedical science and clinical laboratories.