Human Biology SCQF 6 (Online Virtual Classroom) Higher

What is special about this course?

Biology, the study of living organisms, plays a crucial role in our everyday life, and is an increasingly important subject in the modern world. Biology affects everyone, and biologists work to find solutions to many of the world's problems. Advances in technology have made human biology more exciting and relevant than ever.

Higher Human Biology will give you the opportunity to understand and investigate the living world in an engaging and enjoyable way. It will develop your abilities to think analytically, creatively and independently, and to make reasoned evaluations.

The course provides opportunities for you to acquire and apply knowledge to evaluate biological issues, assess risk, make informed decisions and develop an ethical view of complex issues. You will be able to develop your communication, collaborative working and leadership skills, and be able to apply critical thinking in new and unfamiliar contexts to solve problems. The course uses an experimental and investigative approach to develop knowledge and understanding of concepts in biology.

You will acquire a deeper understanding of cellular processes, physiological mechanisms and their impact on health, aspects of the nervous system, and defence mechanisms as they apply to the human species.

This course is also available as part of our senior phase offering for school pupils and home-educated learners. It is offered in the evening and is open to all members of the public.

Entry requirements

• National 5 Biology at B or above and a pass in National 5 Maths
• Standard Grade Biology or Chemistry at 2 or above
• Or Intermediate 2 Biology at B or above

Human cells

The key areas covered are: 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

The key areas covered are: 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 (CVD); blood glucose levels and obesity.

Neurobiology and immunology

The key areas covered are: 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.

Equipment

Internet connection and a suitable device with headphones, microphone and camera (minimum spec) is required. Please email us if you have any concerns about connectivity or equipment.
 

Fees

A fee waiver could be available to help with the payment of your course fees depending on your personal circumstances, please check our fee waiver guidance to see if you are eligible.  

If you are a school pupil or a home-educated young person, you will be eligible for a fee waiver to cover the cost of this course. However, any additional travel costs for exams or assessments will be at your expense. 

Fees are payable at the time of enrolment each academic year. Please get in touch with accountsreceivable.nwh@uhi.ac.uk if you have any further questions. 

Additional costs 

Some of your assessments may require you to attend a college centre or other approved centre. This travel will be at your own expense but we will discuss these details with you throughout your application.