Back to all courses

Science (Medical) AAQ

Course overview

If you’re fascinated by how the human body works and the science behind diagnosing and treating disease, AAQ Medical Science is for you. This applied course combines biology, chemistry and health science with hands-on practical investigation. You’ll study topics such as anatomy, genetics, disease processes and medical imaging, while developing the analytical and problem-solving skills needed in today’s healthcare sector. It’s ideal preparation for university courses and careers in areas like biomedical science, nursing, radiography and medical research.

Entry requirements

Students studying three A Levels and/or AAQs will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 5 and three at grade 4, including English Language and Mathematics.

Students intending to study an AAQ in Science will be expected to have a minimum of one GCSE grade 5 and one grade 4 in two single Science subjects, or a minimum of 5/4 in Combined Science.

Topics you will study

The qualification has five units covering the following topics:

  • Human Physiology, Anatomy and Pathology (Exam) − Human body systems, cell ultrastructure, and how substances are transported

  • Health Issues and Scientific Reporting (Exam) − The immune system, its dysfunction and genetic technologies. The validity and reliability of information used in health science reporting

  • Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (Exam) − Methods of pathogenicity and infectious agents, growth of microorganisms and health and safety in a laboratory environment.

  • Diseases, Disorders, Treatments and Therapies (Coursework) − Principles of physiological diseases and disorders and their associated drug and medicine development

  • Biomedical Science (Coursework) − Biomedical science techniques and their clinical application

Key features

AAQ (new BTEC) Medical Science is equivalent to one A level. The course covers a variety of scientific modules including: the basics topics of Physiology, Health, Microbiology, diseases, Biomedical Science, scientific investigations and analysing scientific data. The course is composed of both internally assessed units (coursework) and externally assessed units (examination) in both Year 12 and Year 13.

Assessment

There are five units of study. Three of the units consist of externally assessed examinations (Physiology/Health and Scientific Reporting/Microbiology). The remaining units are assessed through assignment work.

Exam Board: Pearson

Enrichment and Work Experience

As part of the course, all students have the opportunity to complete a one-week work placement or live-brief in the Summer term this will develop your employability skills and give you valuable experience for future applications. There will also be relevant visits and guest speakers from industry as well as demonstrations to enhance learning on the course.

Why choose B6?

If you’re interested in health, science or medicine, Medical Science AAQ Level 3 is the perfect choice. At our Sixth Form you’ll get hands-on with practical experiments, explore real medical science, and learn in a supportive environment where teachers know how to bring the subject to life. You’ll build the skills and confidence you need for university courses and careers in healthcare and science – all while studying something that feels exciting, relevant and future-focused.

Future career opportunities

The new Pearson AAQ in Medical Science Extended Certificate opens doors to exciting futures in healthcare, biomedical research, and life sciences. Gain practical skills, scientific knowledge, and a strong foundation for careers in medicine, nursing, and allied health professions.

Additional information

The AAQ (new BTEC) Medical Science course is recognised by a large number of universities. Many AAQ students go to study for degrees in areas such as biomedical science, biology, nursing and education. It can lead to careers in healthcare, medical sciences, paramedics, and many other fields.

News

PGP Student Group Visits Edge Hill University for Insights into Teaching Day

PGP Student Group Visits Edge Hill University for Insights into Teaching Day

PGP Student Group Visits Edge Hill University for Insights into Teaching Day Edge Hill

Find out more
B6 Students Showcase Creative Talents

B6 Students Showcase Creative Talents

As the new students settle into life at The Sixth Form Bolton, the college was delighted to host a

Find out more
Black History Month at B6

Black History Month at B6

Black History Month, which celebrates the achievements of Black Britons, has been marked in the UK

Find out more

This site uses cookies that enable us to make improvements, provide relevant content, and for analytics purposes. For more details, see our Cookie Policy. By clicking Accept, you consent to our use of cookies.