Engineering
Higher Human Biology
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Evening
Start date
Aug 2025
Cost
£400
(see funding options)
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Upon completion, you will be academically prepared and eligible to study a range of Level 5/6 courses offered at Edinburgh College
Human Biology Higher is a part-time course designed to deepen your understanding of subjects such as Human Cells, Physiology and Health, Neurobiology and Immunology. Biology is the study of living organisms and aims to find solutions for many of the world’s problems. Biology qualifications will allow you to progress toward a career in science or further study.
Biology plays a crucial role in our everyday existence, and, thanks to technological advances, this diverse subject is now more exciting and relevant than ever. Our Science department offers you the opportunity to study in purpose-built laboratories. These will support the development of your general and specialist practical skills whilst enhancing your theoretical understanding of science.
Higher qualifications, accredited by the SQA, are typically studied at high school and college. These qualifications act as pathways to further study, including university entry. Edinburgh College offers a selection of subjects at a Higher and Advanced Higher level part-time. You may choose to study up to two subjects. The Higher Human Biology course is challenging and requires independent study.
Evening classes will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6.00 PM - 9.00 PM.
What you will learn
Human cells
- Division and differentiation in human cells
- Structure and replication of DNA
- Gene expression
- Mutations
- Human genomics
- Metabolic pathways
- Cellular respiration
- Energy systems in muscle cells
Physiology and health
- Gamete production and fertilisation
- Hormonal control of reproduction
- The biology of controlling fertility
- Antenatal and postnatal screening
- The structure and function of arteries, capillaries and veins
- The structure and function of the heart
- Pathology of cardiovascular disease
- Blood glucose levels and obesity
Neurobiology and Immunology
- Divisions of the nervous system and neural pathways
- The cerebral cortex
- Memory
- The cells of the nervous system and neurotransmitters at synapses
- Non-specific body defences
- Specific cellular defences against pathogens
- Immunisation
- Clinical trials of vaccines and drugs
How the course is assessed
- You must complete a question paper in exam conditions.
Number of days per week
- Evening class – three hours per week across one evening.
- Classes will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6.00 PM - 9.00 PM.
- Occasional additional classes may be scheduled on alternative evenings.
Entry requirements
- Minimum entry requirements:
- National 5 at C in Biology (or equivalent).
- National 5 at grade C in Mathematics (or equivalent). We accept Applications of Maths for this course.
- National 5 at C in English is recommended but not mandatory (or equivalent).
- Applicants should provide a strong personal statement in support of their application, which includes the reason they chose to study Higher Human Biology.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to an entry test if your qualifications are more than 5 years old. The entry test is based on the National 5 Biology course content.
- Applications from students who wish to repeat a course, have previously been enrolled on any Science course, apply again and/or have previously withdrawn from any Science course will be placed on the waiting list. Applications will only be considered in August if there are places available on the course. If the course reaches capacity before August, an offer will not be possible. Therefore, we advise students to consider other options within the College.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 6.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- This course will provide progression to other qualifications in Biology or related areas, as well as further study, employment and/or training.
- You can progress to further study at a university level by using this course alongside others.
Career options
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Science industries
- Nursing and Health Care
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Evening | 25/08/25 |
|
