A Level Biology
Course Code: Q100152
Key Information
Course type:
A Levels
Campus:
Sixth Form Campus
Next Start Date:
07 Sept 2026
Duration:
2 years
Attendance:
Full-time
Fees:
Free
For those who have an interest in the natural world and how it works, biology is the study of life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development and evolution.
You’ll explore the core concept of biology plus the energy, continuity and requirements for life. You’ll cover biodiversity, classification and physiology and there’s an optional unit covering neurobiology and behaviour as well.
You will develop skills to allow independent learning and problem solving – a crucial element of being successful in this pure science subject. Practical work will be emphasised, and you will be supported to complete the course with a practical endorsement alongside your A Level qualification.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English language. You will also need grade 5 or above in maths, and grade 6 or above in biology and one other science subject, or grade 6s in double science.
You will have a 9.55am start, one lesson in the morning, one in the afternoon and a guaranteed 4.00pm finish. You will also have at least one morning and one afternoon per week free for private study.
You will take three two-hour written exams which are a mixture of short and extended answer questions, data response and an essay. Students will also gain a practical endorsement as part of the course.
You could progress to university or straight to employment, particularly in medicine, dentistry and veterinarian sciences, as well as biochemistry, marine biology, bioengineering and many more non-science related subjects.
A Level Biology available start dates:
You may also be interested in
Related Features
Event 16-10-2025
October open events
Check out all the fantastic opportunities available by coming along to our next cross-campus open events, from 4.30-7.30pm on 15 and 16 October. This open event spans two days, so choose the date that suits you best.
Event 15-10-2025
October open events
Check out all the fantastic opportunities available by coming along to our next cross-campus open events, from 4.30-7.30pm on 15 and 16 October. This open event spans two days, so choose the date that suits you best.
NEWS 03-12-2024
Airbus inspires in WiSTEM event
Six of our A Level maths, physics and engineering students visited Airbus in Hilsea for a Women in STEM event. They learned about possible careers in the space and engineering sector, discovered how satellites are designed, tested and built, and were even able to try out some of the equipment and processes for themselves.
“I really like Portsmouth and feel really safe here. The public transport is great. My favourite part about studying at COPC is how passionate the lecturers are about the subjects they teach. It’s been a brilliant experience.”
Ana Clara Ginezi
Studied: Biology, History & ESOL
Agency: Educatius
NEWS 17-03-2025
Politics students back from dream US trip
A group of A Level Politics students are back from a fantastic six-day residential study trip to Washington DC. Lecturer Steve Fitzgerald tells us all about it.
“I’ve made friends here – the people are really nice and the lecturers care. I really like that we start at 10am. It’s a much more relaxed environment than I thought it would be so it’s very easy to adapt. ”
Matteo Galleri
Studied: Criminology, Maths & ESOL
Agency: Interstudies
