A level subjects for Biology-based degree?

Hello I'm just wondering, for a degree such as Human Biology or Biological Sciences, the entry requirements are (at the universities I've looked at), Biology/Human Biology A level and one other from Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, ICT, Maths, Physics, Psychology or Sports Studies/PE. My question is, would it put you at a disadvantage from the admissions viewpoint by taking psychology or geology rather than chemistry or maths from the list above?

To those getting there A Level results this week, good luck!

Hello I'm just wondering, for a degree such as Human Biology or Biological Sciences, the entry requirements are (at the universities I've looked at), Biology/Human Biology A level and one other from Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, ICT, Maths, Physics, Psychology or Sports Studies/PE. My question is, would it put you at a disadvantage from the admissions viewpoint by taking psychology or geology rather than chemistry or maths from the list above?

To those getting there A Level results this week, good luck!

As others have said, in terms of admissions if you are not specifically required to take chemistry you will not be disadvantaged if you don't. However, in terms of the variety of courses open to you when you apply and in terms of your success when you undertake it you should think seriously about including chemistry in your A level options.


Posted from TSR Mobile

You've just answered your own question... If they don't mind what science-y subject you do with the list above, it won't be a disadvantage.

If a University includes a specific subject in its admissions requirements for a course then its essential you have it- - ie. 2 A Levels including Biology, Chemistry and one other science'. Without it, you'll get weeded out immediately and rejected. Most Unis regard Sports Science, PE and ICT as a bit lightweight (unless you are studying those specific subjects at Uni), and there is no point in doing subjects that have an obvious overlap like Biology and Human Biology or Geology and Geography, Computer Studies and ICT. To be taken seriously by top Unis asking top grades, you will need traditional science subjects. Other Unis won't be so picky but check each course requirement carefully - they will all be different and even closely related courses at the same Uni can require different subjects.

You also need to think about what aspect of 'Biology' interest you (ie. plants? people? bio-chemistry? bio-engineering?) and go for subjects that support that (and the content of the course yo are applying for). AND think about the subjects you will enjoy and therefore get a good grade in - there is no point in taking Maths and getting a D if you could have got a B in Psychology.

Look beyond just 'Biology' as a potential - Biomedical Sciences? Neuroscience? Zoology? Paramedic Studies? Genetics? Forensics? Marine Biology? Health Studies? And also look at courses that combine two subjects - Geology and Biology, Biology and History, Biology and Philosophy etc - and those with a Year Abroad (USA, Australia, Canada?).

I'm starting my A levels next year and I'm also aspiring to study biological sciences at Uni, hopefully specialising in infectious diseases. For my A levels I am studying: Geography, biology and Psychology. I honestly wouldn't choose chemistry if you don't enjoy it, I already have an A in it from year 10 but I can't see myself revising for a subject I despise.