Biomedical Science (BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)
Why study Biomedical Science?
Ever wanted to know more about the human body and the way in which systems within the body work together to allow it to function correctly? This course introduces all of these ideas as well as more vocationally linked topics to prepare you for a career in the science industry. Biomedical Science provides an alternative route to a variety of science or health-based degree courses at university or serves to prepare you for the world of work. In this course you will cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics and learn how these subjects are relevant to health-related careers.
Entry Requirements
In addition to our general entry requirements, you must have:
- GCSE English – grade 3
- GCSE Maths – grade 4
- GCSE Science – two grade 4s (or Merit in Level 2 BTEC/OCR Science)
The Course
This course is designed to prepare you for employment in a laboratory or care environment or for entry to an appropriate university course. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about this employment area, you will develop important skills for a science career – the development of practical skills is a major part of the course. You will learn through independent research using resources at college and information gathered on educational visits.
Course Activities
Learners will experience a wide range of activities and assessments. Assignments and coursework as well as more practical assessment form a large part of this course. You will work independently and in groups and will use a variety of methods to present your work, such as posters, leaflets, scientific reports, whole class presentations and videos. You will need to conduct a significant amount of independent research to be successful and will find, analyse and draw conclusions from a variety of media. You will also complete five modular exams. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 13.5 hours independent study per week.
Career and Progression Opportunities
This course will prepare you for a career in a variety of science-based industries or for entry to an appropriate university course. This course is particularly suitable if you are interested in working in the fields of nursing, biomedical science, forensic science or pharmaceuticals. If you decide to go to university you could take a degree in subjects such as Biomedical Sciences, Environmental Science or Pharmacology.
Course Structure and Assessment
This is a two-year course and is the equivalent of three A Levels. Assessment will be in the form of internally-assessed coursework, externally-assessed coursework, and externally-assessed exams.
The Units that are studied are subject to change.
Mandatory Units
Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I - External/modular exam
Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques - Internal/coursework
Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills - External/modular exam
Unit 4: Laboratory Techniques and Their Application - Internal/coursework
Unit 5: Principles and Applications of Science II - External/modular exam
Unit 6: Investigative Project - Internal/coursework
Unit 7: Contemporary Issues in Science - External/modular exam Optional Units
Unit 8: Physiology of the Human Body Systems - Internal/coursework
Unit 9: Human Regulation and Reproduction - Internal/coursework
Unit 10: Biological Molecules and Metabolic Pathways - Internal/coursework
Unit 11: Genetics and Genetic Engineering - Internal/coursework
Unit 20: Medical Physics Techniques - Internal/coursework
Unit 12: Disease and Infection - Internal/coursework
Additional Information
Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel You will be required complete transition work over the summer and hand this in at enrolment. Without this, you may not be able to take your place on the course.