Do A-level results in biology and chemistry inform 1st year pass rate for biomolecular science students?

Abstract

With the constant pressure of performance in league tables and the current economic climate universities have to be more stringent in their choices of who they admit on their courses. This study investigates the correlation between entrance grades and 1st year pass results for biomolecular science students. The aim is to use this study to inform future admissions policy. Approximately 50% of 2009 student enrolments technically faild level 1. However students with A-level biology, chemistry or both did not fail. This paper discusses the reasons for failure and impact of widening participation on programme performance.