BTEC National (Extended Certificate) Medical Science

Exam Board

Pearson

Entry Requirements

Grade 4+ in Biology and Chemistry GCSE or a 5-4 in Combined Science. A grade 4 in Maths and English is also required.

What will I study?

Unit 1: Principles of Human Physiology, Anatomy and Pathology
Unit 2: Health Issues and Scientific Reporting
Unit 3: Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Unit 4: Diseases, Disorders, Treatments and Therapies
 

Assessment

External exams - both synoptic and unit-based. These are sat and marked externally (like a GCSE exam).
Coursework - strict deadlines with one set of feedback to improve.
Grades are Pass to Distinction*

What skills will I gain?

Cognitive and problem-solving skills: using critical thinking, approaching non-routine problems applying expert and creative solutions, using systems and technology
Interpersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self-presentation
Intrapersonal skills: self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development.

Future Pathways

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to admission requirements to many relevant applied human biology/health science courses. It will help in preparing for degree programmes for which some knowledge of human biology may be an advantage.


Examples are:
BSc (Hons) in Public Health and Health Promotion

BSc (Hons) in Health Informatics

Courses in Nursing, Physiotherapy and Psychology