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Free Level 3 Medical Science Course in Brighton

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Medical Science Course in Brighton. Classes run at Varndean College, full-time over two years.

The course covers human anatomy, physiology and pathology. You'll also study microbiology, infectious diseases, and how drugs are developed to treat illness. It replaces the BTEC Human Biology qualification and carries the same weight as one A Level. Assessment is 58% exams and 42% coursework spread across both years.

Entry requires Grade 5 or above in GCSE Biology, Grade 4 in another Science GCSE, and Grade 4 in GCSE Maths. You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Extended Certificate in Medical Science.

Who this course is for

If you enjoyed Biology at school and want to increase your specialist knowledge and understanding in a practical context then this is the course for you. The new Alternative Academic Qualification which has replaced BTEC Human Biology is a two-year course equivalent to one A Level, but the approach is different to A Level as there is a greater emphasis on practical work. From the mandatory units, you will develop a knowledge and understanding of human physiology, anatomy and pathology; secondary research skills including collection and interpretation of data from valid sources and drawing reasoned conclusions; practical skills in microbiology and their application in the diagnosis of disease, as well as critical thinking skills.

Entry requirements

Standard Advanced Level entry requirements Plus Minimum of Grade 5 or above in GCSE Biology and Grade 4 another Science GCSE Or Grade 5/4 in GCSE Combined Science Plus Grade 4 in GCSE Maths

What you will learn

  • You'll study human anatomy, physiology and pathology.
  • You'll develop practical skills in microbiology and their use in diagnosing disease.
  • You'll learn how to collect and interpret data from scientific sources.
  • You'll build critical thinking skills and draw reasoned conclusions from evidence.
  • You'll explore the causes of diseases and current treatment approaches.
  • You'll examine how drugs and medicines are discovered and designed.
  • You'll consider the moral, ethical and legal aspects of treatment choices.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom teaching and practical lab work. Assessment is 58% written exams and 42% coursework. One exam is taken at the end of Year 1 and a second in January of Year 2, with an option to resit in summer of Year 2. Coursework is completed across both years of the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Varndean College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician, supports scientific testing and research in a lab setting.
  • Healthcare science assistant, works alongside clinical scientists in NHS settings.
  • Pharmacy assistant, helps dispense medicines and advise patients in a pharmacy.
  • Medical research assistant, supports studies and trials in a research environment.
  • Pathology support worker, assists with sample analysis in a hospital laboratory.

What you could study next

  • A Levels in Biology or Chemistry, for learners aiming to meet university entry requirements in science or medicine.
  • BSc in Biomedical Science or Pharmacology, a degree route into laboratory and clinical careers.
  • BSc in Nursing or Midwifery, for those moving toward a registered healthcare profession.
  • Higher National Certificate in Applied Science, a vocational higher education option in the sciences.
Apply on varndean.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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