Some universities will be very specific about which A Level subjects they would like you to study, others won’t be. There is no simple rule to this, except of course, do your research.
The table below will give you some idea of some typical university subjects and the A Levels that they are likely to be looking for:
University Subject |
Essential A Levels |
Useful A Levels |
Accountancy |
Mathematics |
|
Computing |
Computing, Mathematics |
Further Maths, Physics |
Economics |
Most courses require Mathematics |
|
English |
English Literature/Language (sometimes both required) |
|
Engineering |
Mathematics and Physics |
|
Geology/Earth Sciences |
Mathematics and Science |
|
History |
History |
|
Medicine/Dentistry |
Chemistry, Biology |
|
Nursing/Midwifery |
Biology |
|
Optometry |
Biology. Either one other subject including Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics |
Either Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics |
Pharmacy |
Chemistry. Either one other subject including Maths, Biology or Physics. |
Psychology |
Physics |
Physics and Mathematics |
|
Physiotherapy |
Biology |
Further Science subject including Mathematics is recommended |
Veterinary Science |
Biology and Chemistry |
Mathematics or Physics is recommended |
Typical A Level subject choices that go well together are:
• Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics
• Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics
• Economics, History, Politics
• Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics
• English Literature, History and one other
• Business Studies, Law, Politics
• Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics
• Psychology, Sociology and one other
• Art, Photography, Sociology
See full course list
