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Further maths or physics A level?

I am starting college this week and I am undecided on whether to do an economics degree or an actuarial science degree when I leave college.

Currently my A level choices that I have picked are maths, physics and economics.

I still have time to change them before I start so my question is should I change physics for further maths? As many actuarial science degrees say that further maths is "highly desirable".

Reply 1

username2752874

Original post by HairyMonkey67

Your question doesn't make sense. You say that science degrees desire further maths, but if you replace physics with it, you'll have no science subjects and wouldn't be able to do any science degrees. The only science degrees you would be able to do with physics(and your other subjects) are physics, CompSci and engineering. So if you don't fancy those, don't take physics. Further maths is more relevant for economics, especially stats modules.

Reply 2

HairyMonkey67

Original post by GradeA*UnderA

Actuarial science doesn't require a science A level? It is to do with risk assessment and statistics mainly involving insurance companies etc.

Reply 3

goldensnow101

Hi, I am starting actuarial science at City Uni this year and I think that the reason why they ask for Further maths is because the FP modules are important in Actuarial Science (along with the core modules) and also it gives you the chance to study more statistics modules so that you can gain more knowledge in the area of statistics which may make the degree slightly easier and allow the university to see where your strengths and weaknesses are.

Both subjects are really good choices but I think that actuarial science is more maths based and specialised, you could also work out doing economics as a degree and if you want to become an actuary then you can take the exams privately or do MSc actuarial mathematics.

Good luck with your decision

Reply 4

HairyMonkey67

Original post by CaliforNeema

Thankyou, I think I will be able to cope with further maths, I'm just worried that if I decided to do an economics degree instead that my subject choices wouldn't be very broad as economics is a bit of maths as well. So it's like taking all 3 as maths subjects. Do you reckon I could still do an economics degree with maths, further maths and economics?

Also good luck on your degree, I've heard it is one of the most difficult degrees you can choose.

Physics

Thanks, i think any degree can be difficult but if you put the hard work and effort in then it will pay off.
I have friends who have applied for (and are going to study) economics with alevels in maths, further maths and economics. It will definately equip you for atleast the beginners level of maths in economics i think. I think physics has more to do with the mechanics modules that are available in the A level maths syllabus. But it really depends on you, I think you will still need to do a few mechanics modules with further maths but you are also able to cover the further pure modules as well which are important in Act sci.

Reply 7

username2752874

Original post by HairyMonkey67

Actuarial science doesn't require a science A level? It is to do with risk assessment and statistics mainly involving insurance companies etc.

Read it as aquatarical science 😊
Still, I Think FM would is more suitable for economics and actuarial science.

Reply 8

Bobjim12

Original post by HairyMonkey67

Yes, you will be fine with those 3. They are the three most relevant. That being said, there is no need to do economics, but by all means do it if you enjoy it. The only subject that may be required would be mathematics

Source: LSE Economics requirements