Human Biology

Course summary

The OCR Level 3 Cambridge Advanced National in Human Biology is an exciting and challenging course that gives you the opportunity to explore the remarkable complexity of the human body. If you are fascinated by science and interested in pursuing a future in healthcare, biomedical research, or medical sciences, this qualification offers the perfect foundation. The course combines theoretical study with practical, hands-on learning. You will explore the fundamentals of human biology, including cell structure, biochemistry, and genetics, before delving into health and disease, understanding how lifestyle, environment, and the immune system influence wellbeing. Alongside this, you will study inheritance and DNA, and develop real laboratory skills through biomedical techniques such as microscopy, biochemical testing, and DNA analysis. There is also scope to pursue specialist areas that reflect your interests, such as nutrition and metabolism, reproduction, the brain, or drug development. This breadth allows you to deepen your knowledge while making links to real-world contexts and the rapidly developing field of medical science. Human Biology is more than just content knowledge: it is about developing independence, communication skills, and the confidence to research, analyse, and present ideas. You will use whiteboards, digital tools, and experiments to check understanding, tackle misconceptions, and build your ability to think critically and creatively. The qualification balances examined units with non-examined assessments (NEA), giving you opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge both in traditional tests and through practical or applied assignments. This qualification is designed to sit alongside A-Levels and complements subjects such as Chemistry, Psychology, or Sport. It not only prepares you for progression to undergraduate study in healthcare and medical science but also equips you with transferable skills valued in many career paths. Human Biology will challenge you to think like a scientist and inspire you to see how biology can shape lives and futures.