Biology is the study of all living things, from the tiniest organisms to the largest lifeforms. You will learn how nature and the human body work, and how different forms of life eat, make energy and reproduce. You will also find out how Biology is helping to find solutions to world problems.
There are many career opportunities connected with biology, including medicine, nursing, dentistry, physiotherapy, food science, sport science, pharmacology and beauty therapy.
Career Pathways
To see what career areas this subject could lead to and the routes to get there, download and view these career pathways:
Hairdressing, Beauty and Wellbeing
Teaching and Classroom Support
Uniformed and Security Services
Entry is at the discretion of the school or college but you would normally have achieved one of the following:
Biology is a hands-on that develops your skills of scientific inquiry, and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding, by undertaking practical activities in the classroom/local environment. You will research issues and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop your skills of scientific literacy.
The course comprises three areas of study.
Cell biology
You will learn about:
cell structure; transport across cell membranes; DNA and the production of proteins; proteins; genetic engineering; and respiration.
Biology: multicellular organisms
You will learn about:
producing new cells; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; transport systems — plants; transport systems — animals; and absorption of materials.
Biology: life on Earth
You will learn about:
ecosystems; distribution of organisms; photosynthesis; energy in ecosystems; food production; and evolution of species.
The course assessment has two components worth 120 marks:
For the assignment component, you will be asked to choose a relevant topic to research, plan and carry out relevant experimental/fieldwork work, process and present this, compare information and data, and draw your conclusion. You will present your findings in a report. The assignment component will be set and externally marked by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).
The question paper will be set and marked externally by the SQA.
The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across all course assessment components.
The course assessment is graded A–D.
If you complete the course successfully, it may lead to:
Further study, training or employment in:
Your school will give your parents an Options or Choices information booklet, which has detailed information on the curriculum and the individual subjects or courses you can study. It will also invite them along to a Parents’ Information Evening.
They can also read the information leaflet(s):
