SYLLABUS
Unit F170 – Fundamentals of Human Biology (Externally assessed)
- Understand the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organ systems.
- Explore physiological links between systems, especially endocrine, nervous, and reproductive.
- Gain foundational knowledge in microbiology, including the human biome and immune response.
Unit F171 – Health and Disease (Externally assessed)
- Understand causes, effects, and treatments of communicable and non-communicable diseases.
- Explore risk factors and preventative strategies.
- Investigate screening, diagnosis, and epidemiological data in public health contexts.
Unit F172 – Genetics (Non-Exam Assessment)
- Understand DNA structure and function, including replication and protein synthesis.
- Study inheritance, gene expression, and variation.
- Explore the use of genetic testing, counselling, gene therapy, and genetic engineering.
Unit F173 – Biomedical Techniques
- Learn practical lab techniques for biochemical analysis (e.g., chromatography, urinalysis, titration).
- Understand the roles of biomedical scientists in diagnosis and treatment.
- Conduct and interpret investigations on biological samples.
Unit F174 – Nutrition and Metabolism (Optional)
- Understand nutrients, human metabolism, and metabolic pathways.
- Investigate dietary requirements and nutrition-related disorders.
- Explore the diagnosis and treatment of nutritional deficiencies.
Unit F175 – Human Reproduction (Optional)
- Study the human reproductive system, menstrual cycle, fertilisation, and pregnancy.
- Learn about contraception, infertility, and assisted reproductive technologies.
Unit F176 – The Brain (Optional)
- Explore brain structure, function, and the role of the nervous system.
- Understand neurological conditions and treatments.
- Examine technologies used in brain investigation and imaging.
Unit F177 – Drug Development (Optional)
- Learn how pharmaceutical drugs are discovered, developed, and tested.
- Explore regulation, safety, and ethics in medicine development.
- Apply knowledge to case studies in drug formulation and patient care.