Medical Science

Course Description

In Y12 and Y13 all students will complete work to gain a Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Medical Science (Extended Certificate).

This is equivalent to one A Level in size and is suitable for students looking to develop their applied knowledge and skills in medical sciences as part of a study programme alongside two other qualifications.

Further information about the course including results

The course is intended to develop applied knowledge and skills in medical/health sciences, readying students for higher education and careers in related fields (such as biomedical science, health professions).

We are proud to operate an open-door policy for help where students can feel supported and encouraged. It is our aim to work with you and the people that support you to help you achieve the very best that you can in Medical Science.

Although 2026 will be the first year we deliver this brand-new qualification, the King Ecgbert School Science Department has a strong track record of teaching vocational science courses. Our results in the previous BTEC Diploma in Applied Science—now discontinued—were on average four-fifths of a grade higher than the national average (for students with comparable GCSE profiles), with a consistently high proportion of students achieving Distinction or Distinction *.

Additional Information

Can be found here: L3 AAQ BTEC Nat Med Sci Ext Cert Spec

Course Content and Teaching Units

Students complete four units

Assessment: combination of external examinations and internally assessed coursework.

Units

Unit 1: Principles of Human Physiology, Anatomy and Pathology (externally assessed)

This unit covers the underpinning biology of the human body — how cells and tissues are organised, how body systems work (nervous, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive) and how pathology (disease) affects them.

Unit 2: Health Issues and Scientific Reporting (externally assessed)

This unit explores health-related issues (such as immune system dysfunction, genetic conditions, cancer, lifestyle & environmental influences) and the role of scientific research/reporting (data interpretation, validity of sources, reliability of information) in medical science.

Unit 3: Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (internally assessed)

This unit introduces practical laboratory work: classification of microorganisms, growth of microbes, pathogens and infectious disease transmission, antimicrobial agents, microbiology techniques and lab safety.

Unit 6: Human Reproduction and Fertility (internally assessed)

This unit covers anatomy and physiology of the human reproductive systems (male & female), the role of hormones, reproductive cycles, foetal development/birth, causes of infertility, treatments and impact on health and wellbeing.

Financial Information

There is no financial requirement to this course.

Qualification

Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Medical Science (Extended Certificate).

How is it delivered and assessed?

The course is delivered over five hours each week by biology teachers.

Unit 1 is assessed through an 80-mark exam (1 hour 30 minutes) comprised of short and long answer questions.

Unit 2 is assessed through an 80-mark exam (2 hours) comprised of short and long answer questions.

Unit 3 and unit 6 are assessed via assignments marked by teaching staff and verified by the exam board.

5-5-5 (separate sciences) or 5-5 for combined science.

5s in English Language and Maths (strong 4s considered)

Progression Opportunities

This qualification provides a strong foundation for a range of university courses, particularly in the biomedical and health sciences for example Biomedical Science, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Pharmacy, and Public Health. It also supports progression to related life sciences and laboratory-based courses.