Course Aims

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) in Medical Science is a two‑year programme equivalent to one A Level, designed for learners interested in human biology, health, and the scientific foundations of medical practice. It is typically studied alongside two other A Levels or AAQs, offering a flexible and academically rigorous route into higher education. 

Course Content

The course blends theoretical understanding with hands‑on practical skills. Students complete three mandatory units covering Human Physiology, Anatomy and Pathology; Health Issues and Scientific Reporting; and Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Together, these units develop strong laboratory skills, analytical thinking, and confidence in scientific inquiry. Learners also study an additional unit of Biomedical Science.

Developed in partnership with universities, this qualification ensures students gain the essential knowledge and competencies needed for progression into degree‑level study and health‑related professions. 

Course Assessment

The course is modular which means assessment will be a mixture of externally marked exams and internally marked coursework, some of which will be completed and assessed in the first year of study. Because of the holistic nature of the course content, teaching and assessments will be synoptically linked. For example when learning about how a disease causes certain symptoms (taught in one module) you will need to understand the function of the immune system (taught in another module).

Progress

Graduates often progress into areas such as nursing, biomedical science, physiotherapy, paramedic science, and clinical or laboratory research, supported by the course’s focus on critical thinking, problem solving, and scientific literacy.