Why study A-level Maths?
A-level Mathematics is currently the most popular A-level in the UK taken by students who go on to university. In 2020 around 95,000 students took A-level maths, up 2.5% from 2019, with just over 15,000 also taking A-level Further Maths. If you want to study A-level Maths, here's what you need to know.
Studying maths has multiple benefits for university entry
Taking maths at A-level is more helpful for landing a place at a Russell Group university than studying at a grammar or private school, says research from University College London's Institute of Education. Sitting maths is associated with attending a university with a score on average seven points higher in The Times Good University Guide.
A-level Maths is more challenging than GCSE Maths
At first glance, this may not be an appealing reason to take A-level Maths, yet, studying this subject at an advanced level takes what you have learnt at the GCSE level to a more in-depth and rewarding level. For the student, this means more independent work and a more advanced marking scheme that asks for your analysis and reasoning behind answers.
Further Maths is hugely beneficial
A-level Further Mathematics is a good extra choice if you want to do a degree in Mathematics as it introduces a broader range of pure and applied content, such as Logic, Statistics, Mechanics, and Pure Maths. Plus, around a third of Mathematics and BSc degree courses mention Further Mathematics in their entry requirements. Bear in mind, though, that it's harder and more in-depth than A-level Maths, and you cannot take it on its own. This is because Further Maths includes content and concepts that you will learn in A-level Maths.
Universities value two Maths A-levels
A-level Maths and A-level Further Maths are also facilitating subjects for many universities, including the Russell Group universities. Facilitating subjects are the most commonly required or preferred by universities to get on to various degree courses.
Many degree subjects go well with A-level Maths
A-level Maths is a versatile subject that pairs well with several other subjects. It can be studied at university with sciences such as Physics or subjects such as Economics, Accounting and Finance, and IT. Subjects such as Geography, Psychology and Sociology are also likely to have components that those with prior study of Maths will far more easily master.
You will get multiple skills from studying Maths A-level
By studying A-level Maths, you'll gain an immense amount of analytical and problem-solving skills. These are all transferable and can be applied to many different areas of your life. Maths at A-Level will also give you research skills that will allow you to find solutions to problems and investigate theories.
There are a wide variety of careers for maths graduates
Some of the most exciting and well-paid careers revolve around maths. Jobs in finance, medicine, engineering, and business are all open to people with a background in Mathematics, as are careers in AI, Robotics and technology.
The Government is currently the single largest employer of mathematicians in the country. The GCHQ recruits a huge amount of maths graduates every year. You might be employed to decode encrypted messages or develop better ways of keeping codes secret.
What can I expect from studying A-level Maths?
Though A-level Maths is challenging and the jump from GCSE to A-level can be harder than some other subjects, with the right practice and work, you can achieve a lot. As with other A-levels, the key is to prepare for lessons with further reading, review lessons and work as you go and do the right exam preparation. One of the biggest errors A-level students make is not asking for help early enough. Your teachers and an A-level Maths tutor can make the process considerably easier.
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