can i do a biology/similar course at uni without a-levels?

hi. i'm a college student who is doing a level 3 diploma in creative media production (the course is 2 years and equivalent to 3 a levels). i also do a baccalaureate course alongside that which i think (but i'm uncertain) is equivalent to an a level too. i didn't realise i would have such a big interest in biology for uni/career while i was making my post-GCSE decisions.

i passed all of my GCSEs with all A*s/As, with the exception of Bs in maths/numeracy. i got AB for science double award.

i don't exactly know what course i would like to do yet at uni but i am interested in microscopy, how the muscles and organs work during exercise/resting periods, healthy lifestyles & diet.

initially, i thought to do journalism so that i could be a journalist/magazine editor. i'm no longer interested in studying journalism at uni because i feel i will have learned enough by the end of college since i also did media studies at GCSE and my college course has significantly developed my skills. i've got other relevant GCSEs for a career in journalism. also, it isn't necessary to have a degree in journalism to become a journalist.

i'd like to develop my understanding in biology and specialise in a career linking to that. perhaps i could even combine media and biology by going into a health direction for a magazine/journalism.

my intention right now is to complete my 2 year media course for UCAS points and to not let my hard work go to waste, and i will look into online biology courses to do at the same time.

i would be grateful for opinions and advice on this. what can my next steps after college be? would my best bet be to do a foundation year first? and what type of courses seem suitable with my interests?

Reply 1

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Hi @kyqr0

Well done on great GCSE's! And it is much better to realise what you wanna do now, rather than years down the line after picking a degree you were never sure on.

A foundation year would probably be your best bet, especially because of the fact your pivoting from your college qualification to STEM. By the sounds of it you may be interested in biomedical science. And the idea of going into health journalism is a great niche idea! Having a science/biology related degree would help you get in the right doors.

Your next steps would probably be to have a search on certain universities/cities you are interested in and then check their entry requirements for the courses your interested in. If it isnt clear what their entry requirements are for a foundation year you could easily email their enquiry team as every uni will have one and im sure they will be happy to help you. 🙂

Jad, LJMU Rep