New for September 2026.
The AAQ in Medical Science will provide you with an understanding of the principles and applications of medical science. Students will also learn the practical and investigation skills that build on this fundamental knowledge. We will follow the Pearson Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Medical Science (AAQ) specification.
If you have an interest in Microbiology, Biochemistry or Pathology, this may be the course for you. This course has strong links to other subjects such as Biology, Chemistry and PE, with further links to Sociology and Psychology, applying these subjects to the field of Medical Science. This is a science-based course which is well suited to those looking to study a lab-based subject, such as Biomedical Science or health-related courses at university.
In the first unit you will study how the human body functions at a cellular and tissue level. You will gain an understanding of the various organ systems that comprise the human body – nervous, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and digestive systems – and gain some insight into how these systems interrelate. In the second unit you will focus on health issues faced by the human population today and explore their impact on the world we live in. You will gain an understanding of diagnostic techniques, before focusing on health issues themselves alongside associated initiatives, including cancer and various aspects of immune dysfunction, and genetics.
In the third unit you will carry out your own investigation into the effect of antimicrobial agents on the growth of microorganisms. You will first develop an understanding of the significance of microorganisms as pathogens. You will link the understanding of cell and tissue adaptation, the function of biological molecules and the relationship between the structure, function and processes of key body systems with your knowledge of immune response, to understand how diseases develop.
Please note: this course is heavily science-focused. If you are interested in a health-based career but are less confident in science, or would like something different alongside another science subject (such as Biology), have a look at our Health and Social Care course. Health and Social Care covers similar content in terms of Human Biology, but also focuses more on the person-centred, emotional and social elements of working in a healthcare profession, such as the NHS values of care and understanding professional practice. This course is not typically accepted for entry to Medicine degrees.
Content
The course is made up of four units:
- Principles of human physiology, anatomy and pathology
- Health issues and scientific reporting
- Practical microbiology and infectious diseases
- One optional unit to be confirmed by the college
Assessment
The units on Principles of human physiology, anatomy and pathology and Health issues and scientific reporting will be assessed with an exam and make up 58% of the qualification. The final two units will be assesed with coursework.
Entry Requirements
Minimum 65444 including 2 5s in a science subject.
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