Science
Biology Higher
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Part time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Biology Higher is a part-time course that enables candidates to deepen their understanding of the underlying themes of biology. The scale of topics ranges from molecular to whole organism and beyond. You will develop an understanding of DNA and how the genome's structure provides the basis for evolution and biodiversity.
Genomics is considered one of the significant scientific advances of recent times. Metabolic pathways and their control are considered alongside the conditions under which organisms survive and the means by which they cope. The interdependence and complex interactions among organisms are explored, and sustainable food production, with photosynthesis at its core, is investigated. These topics will prepare you for further education, training, or employment in areas related to life sciences.
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 on a part-time basis. You may choose to study up to two subjects. These courses are challenging and require independent study.
What you will learn
Biology: DNA and the Genome
- Structure of DNA
- Replication of DNA
- Gene Expression
- Cellular Differentiation
- The Structure of the Genome
- Mutations
- Evolution
- Genomic Sequencing
Biology: Metabolism and Survival
- Metabolic Pathways
- Cellular Respiration
- Metabolic Rate
- Metabolism in Conformers and Regulators
- Metabolism and Adverse Conditions
- Environmental Control of Metabolism
- Genetic Control of Metabolism
Biology: Sustainability and Interdependence
- Food Supply, Plant Growth, and Productivity
- Plant and Animal Breeding
- Crop Protection
- Animal Welfare
- Symbiosis
- Social Behaviour
- Components of Biodiversity
- Threats to Biodiversity
How the course is assessed
- The course assessment determines the final grade and has two components. Both are marked externally by the SQA.
- The first component consists of 2 question papers: 40 minutes and 2 hours 20 minutes. The second component is an assignment completed within 8 hours, including 2 hours for the report stage.
Number of days per week
- Day class – One day per week (3 hours).
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 that explains why they chose to study Higher Biology.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to an entry test if your qualifications are at least 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 can lead to further study at a university level
- This course can progress to further study at HNC/D level
Career options
- Biological and biomedical sciences
- Health and food science
- Nursing
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Part time | 24/08/26 |
