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Level 3 Medical Science Course in Reading for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

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About this course

Free Level 3 Medical Science Course in Reading. Classes run at Maiden Erlegh School, full-time over two years.

The course covers biological principles including cells, tissues, genetics, immunology, and microbiology. You'll also study diseases, diagnostic techniques, and treatments. This Pearson Edexcel BTEC is a strong foundation for university or a career in health and science.

Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including grade 5 in both English and Maths, and grade 5 in Biology or Combined Science. You'll finish with a Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Medical Science.

Who this course is for

BTEC Nationals in Medical Science is a great choice for students looking for a career where they can make a difference to the health and lives of others. The course gives students a broad understanding of biological principles including cells, tissues, biological molecules, genetics, immunology and practical microbiology as well as diseases, diagnostic techniques and treatments. BTEC Nationals are widely recognised by higher education and industry as the vocational qualification of choice at Level 3.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at grade 5+ (or Merit+ in equivalents). If the 5 passes does not include English (language or literature) and mathematics of grade 5+, students must, in addition, achieve at least a grade 4 in English (language or literature) and mathematics. Also 5-5 for Combined Science or 5 for GCSE Biology. Students must also gain a grade 5 in both GCSE English and Mathematics.

What you will learn

  • You'll study cell biology and tissue structure.
  • You'll explore biological molecules and their roles in the body.
  • You'll learn the principles of genetics and inheritance.
  • You'll study immunology and how the body responds to infection.
  • You'll carry out practical microbiology work.
  • You'll examine how diseases develop and progress.
  • You'll learn about diagnostic techniques used in medical settings.
  • You'll study treatments and how they work at a biological level.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom lessons delivered by subject specialists. Assessment combines coursework assignments and external examinations. Coursework is completed throughout the two years. External exams test your knowledge of core topics. You'll also take part in practical laboratory work as part of the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Maiden Erlegh School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician, supports scientific research or testing in a lab.
  • Healthcare science assistant, works alongside clinical scientists in the NHS.
  • Pharmacy assistant, helps dispense and manage medicines in a pharmacy.
  • Medical research assistant, supports studies and trials in a research setting.
  • Biomedical science technician, prepares and analyses samples in a hospital lab.

What you could study next

  • A Level Biology or Chemistry, deepens scientific knowledge for university entry.
  • BSc Biomedical Science, a degree for those aiming to work in clinical or research science.
  • BSc Nursing or Midwifery, for those moving toward a registered health profession.
  • Higher National Certificate in Applied Science, a vocational higher education route into science careers.
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