MEDICAL SCIENCE
Choose Ryburn Sixth for AAQ Medical Science – a Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification that brings science to life through real-world healthcare contexts. Our Science department continues to go from strength to strength, and we're thrilled to offer this dynamic course that bridges the gap between scientific theory and practical medical application.
Equivalent in size to one A level, this qualification is perfect for students with a passion for medicine, healthcare and applied science. The course takes a hands-on approach to learning, connecting you directly with how science is used in modern healthcare settings, laboratories and clinical environments.
It's an excellent choice if you're considering careers in nursing, paramedic science, biomedical science or clinical support – but it's equally valuable if you simply love science and want to explore it alongside your other subjects. You'll benefit from our Science department's excellent teachers and the high levels of individual support that enable our students to excel.
What will I study?
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Qualification: AAQ Level 3 BTEC National in Medical Science (Extended Certificate) Equivalent to one A level
Exam Board: Pearson
Assessment is split between external exams and internal coursework, allowing students to demonstrate a range of skills:58% external assessment – written examinations and supervised assessment
42% internal assessment – coursework, practical reports and investigations
This structure rewards strong organisation, practical competence, scientific understanding and analytical skills.
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You will study a number of units, with a mixture of exams and coursework, both practical and project based.
Over the two-year course, students complete four units, including three mandatory units, covering topics such as:
human physiology, anatomy and disease
health issues and scientific investigation
microbiology and infectious diseases
laboratory techniques and medical research
The course content has been developed in collaboration with universities and healthcare employers, ensuring it supports progression to further study and employment.
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Students gain valuable transferable skills, including:
practical laboratory and investigative skills
data handling and scientific reporting
problem-solving using medical evidence
independent learning and research skills
confidence working in scientific and healthcare contexts
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Minimum 5, 5 in Separate or Combined Science, 5 in Maths
YOUR NEXT STEPS
YOUR NEXT STEPS
AAQ Medical Science provides a strong foundation for progression to a wide range of healthcare and science-related pathways. The qualification is recognised by universities and is particularly valuable when studied alongside complementary A-level subjects. Students commonly progress to university courses such as:
Nursing
Midwifery
Paramedic Science
Biomedical Science
Sports Science
Health Sciences.
The course also prepares you for healthcare and NHS apprenticeships, as well as laboratory technician and clinical support roles, giving you flexibility in choosing your next steps.
Throughout the course, you'll develop valuable transferable skills that universities and employers actively seek. These include practical laboratory and investigative skills, data handling and scientific reporting, and the ability to solve problems using medical evidence. You'll also build independent learning and research capabilities, alongside the confidence to work effectively in scientific and healthcare contexts. This combination of academic knowledge and practical competence means you'll be well-prepared not just for further study, but for the realities of working in modern healthcare and scientific environments.
