Need advice picking between Music and Philosophy A level
For A Levels the subjects I will definitely take next year are English Lit and Computer Science, which I'm good at. I'm also probably taking psychology. I unfortunately can't choose between Music and Philosophy and cannot choose both instead of Psychology because of subject blocks. I love music, but due to circumstances I'm not nearly at the required level for piano, my instrument (for a level, final is 8 mins of grade 7 for Edexcel, I am supposedly equivalent to grade 5 or so in my playing) and I feel like in terms of subjects Philosophy might be liked more by universities, especially as I'm likely taking an English course at uni.
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Original post by ShadowOtter
For A Levels the subjects I will definitely take next year are English Lit and Computer Science, which I'm good at. I'm also probably taking psychology. I unfortunately can't choose between Music and Philosophy and cannot choose both instead of Psychology because of subject blocks. I love music, but due to circumstances I'm not nearly at the required level for piano, my instrument (for a level, final is 8 mins of grade 7 for Edexcel, I am supposedly equivalent to grade 5 or so in my playing) and I feel like in terms of subjects Philosophy might be liked more by universities, especially as I'm likely taking an English course at uni.
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
What do you intend to do after A Levels? Do you intend to do a degree? If so, which degree?
It's a little ambiguous to what you should do if you don't know the bigger picture to all of this.
Otherwise, it depends on the individual and it would be more difficult to answer.
Original post by MindMax2000
What do you intend to do after A Levels? Do you intend to do a degree? If so, which degree?
It's a little ambiguous to what you should do if you don't know the bigger picture to all of this.
Otherwise, it depends on the individual and it would be more difficult to answer.
It's a little ambiguous to what you should do if you don't know the bigger picture to all of this.
Otherwise, it depends on the individual and it would be more difficult to answer.
Yes a degree, most likely in English or something English related, but music composition or tech is possibility and if I were to enjoy psychology and find myself being good at it then potentially something down that route. Really though I'm not extremely certain, and certainly not beyond that point.
Original post by shadowotter
Yes a degree, most likely in English or something English related, but music composition or tech is possibility and if I were to enjoy psychology and find myself being good at it then potentially something down that route. Really though I'm not extremely certain, and certainly not beyond that point.
If you don't intend to do a philosophy degree, then it wouldn't matter if you did it as an A Level. Even if you wanted to do it as a degree, you won't need specific subjects prior to doing it. Do note, you don't need a degree in philosophy to become a philosopher.
Degrees in subjects that you mentioned that require subjects is music and computer science (Music and Maths/Computer science respectively). English and psychology degrees borderline require A Levels in English and Psychology for some degrees.
If you want to keep all subjects at degree level open, then Music, Computer Science (preferably Maths instead, but Computer Science it is), English, and Psychology would be my go to.
Having said that, if you have appalling music ability, then it makes no sense to do it as an A Level. Same situation with philosophy. Grades do matter a lot for university applications after meeting subject requirements. Again, this is something only you can answer.
In terms of career, I am going to throw in a spanner in the works:
•
You don't need a degree in music to become a musician. If anything, a grade 8 in the instrument that you want to play makes more sense in my book.
•
You don't need a degree in English to do anything related to English. If you want to go into film or theatre, you just need to be good at acting or being part of the support crew. If you want to write, then you need to be good at writing. If you want to work in publishing, they don't care what qualifications you have so long you have good English/literacy skills.
•
You strictly don't need a degree in computer science to go into tech, but you will need the required skills. Often you can get around this requirement by doing the professional certificate relevant for the specific role that you want to go into e.g. you wouldn't do a certificate in networking if you want to work in cybersecurity. Having said that, there are some IT related roles that will require a computer science degree of some capacity e.g. certain roles in bioinformatics at the NHS will require either a degree in something related to mathematics, computer science, engineering, and physics, since they all contain a lot of maths and programming.
•
If you want to be a philosopher, you need to think and write. However, it's also informally known as the long term unemployed for a reason.
•
If you want to be a psychologist, you will need a BPS accredited degree in psychology. Whilst you can get around this requirement by becoming a counsellor or mental health practitioner, you can't do the same for psychology.
•
If you want to become a teacher in any of the subjects and intend to teach at secondary school level, you will need to be competent in the subject and that usually involves doing a relevant undergrad prior to doing a PGCE/PGDE. You can sometimes get away with it by showcasing your knowledge, but I find the degree more helpful.
•
If you want to later do postgrad degrees in any of the above subjects, you can only do a psychology conversion course (ideally BPS accredited), computer science conversion course, or a degree in creative writing (not English Lit) since they accept an undergrad in any subject. You are not likely going to get a postgrad in music, English lit, or philosophy with an undergrad in different subjects.
•
You can sometimes get away with doing degrees in joint subjects that would provide you with competence in 2 of the above subjects e.g. natural science/liberal arts degrees (where pretty much anything goes, but you will have to specialise and pick at most 2 subjects), artificial intelligence/computational neuroscience with a strong psychology component (at least 50% of the content), English and Psychology, Music and Psychology, English and Music, etc.
(edited 9 months ago)
Original post by MindMax2000
If you don't intend to do a philosophy degree, then it wouldn't matter if you did it as an A Level. Even if you wanted to do it as a degree, you won't need specific subjects prior to doing it. Do note, you don't need a degree in philosophy to become a philosopher.
Degrees in subjects that you mentioned that require subjects is music and computer science (Music and Maths/Computer science respectively). English and psychology degrees borderline require A Levels in English and Psychology for some degrees.
If you want to keep all subjects at degree level open, then Music, Computer Science (preferably Maths instead, but Computer Science it is), English, and Psychology would be my go to.
Having said that, if you have appalling music ability, then it makes no sense to do it as an A Level. Same situation with philosophy. Grades do matter a lot for university applications after meeting subject requirements. Again, this is something only you can answer.
In terms of career, I am going to throw in a spanner in the works:
Degrees in subjects that you mentioned that require subjects is music and computer science (Music and Maths/Computer science respectively). English and psychology degrees borderline require A Levels in English and Psychology for some degrees.
If you want to keep all subjects at degree level open, then Music, Computer Science (preferably Maths instead, but Computer Science it is), English, and Psychology would be my go to.
Having said that, if you have appalling music ability, then it makes no sense to do it as an A Level. Same situation with philosophy. Grades do matter a lot for university applications after meeting subject requirements. Again, this is something only you can answer.
In terms of career, I am going to throw in a spanner in the works:
•
You don't need a degree in music to become a musician. If anything, a grade 8 in the instrument that you want to play makes more sense in my book.
•
You don't need a degree in English to do anything related to English. If you want to go into film or theatre, you just need to be good at acting or being part of the support crew. If you want to write, then you need to be good at writing. If you want to work in publishing, they don't care what qualifications you have so long you have good English/literacy skills.
•
You strictly don't need a degree in computer science to go into tech, but you will need the required skills. Often you can get around this requirement by doing the professional certificate relevant for the specific role that you want to go into e.g. you wouldn't do a certificate in networking if you want to work in cybersecurity. Having said that, there are some IT related roles that will require a computer science degree of some capacity e.g. certain roles in bioinformatics at the NHS will require either a degree in something related to mathematics, computer science, engineering, and physics, since they all contain a lot of maths and programming.
•
If you want to be a philosopher, you need to think and write. However, it's also informally known as the long term unemployed for a reason.
•
If you want to be a psychologist, you will need a BPS accredited degree in psychology. Whilst you can get around this requirement by becoming a counsellor or mental health practitioner, you can't do the same for psychology.
•
If you want to become a teacher in any of the subjects and intend to teach at secondary school level, you will need to be competent in the subject and that usually involves doing a relevant undergrad prior to doing a PGCE/PGDE. You can sometimes get away with it by showcasing your knowledge, but I find the degree more helpful.
•
If you want to later do postgrad degrees in any of the above subjects, you can only do a psychology conversion course (ideally BPS accredited), computer science conversion course, or a degree in creative writing (not English Lit) since they accept an undergrad in any subject. You are not likely going to get a postgrad in music, English lit, or philosophy with an undergrad in different subjects.
•
You can sometimes get away with doing degrees in joint subjects that would provide you with competence in 2 of the above subjects e.g. natural science/liberal arts degrees (where pretty much anything goes, but you will have to specialise and pick at most 2 subjects), artificial intelligence/computational neuroscience with a strong psychology component (at least 50% of the content), English and Psychology, Music and Psychology, English and Music, etc.
Thank you for all the info, I'll take it into consideration for trying to figure out what I'll do since I still have some time. My main logic for taking philosophy wasn't that I would definitely want to do it further in life, but more because it fits with English and I thought therefore it would make more sense as a choice, as well me thinking it would be liked generally by unis. If you don't mind me asking a couple more questions:
-If I were to take an English degree, considering all my A levels, would they prefer the additional music or philosophy or would it not really affect much?
-If I were to go for specifically a music composition degree, would they care much about instrument grades? Also, would they even necessarily need an A level in it for one, or would they really be looking for experience/examples of composition work?
Thanks again for your time on this, sorry for the delayed responses
Original post by shadowotter
Thank you for all the info, I'll take it into consideration for trying to figure out what I'll do since I still have some time. My main logic for taking philosophy wasn't that I would definitely want to do it further in life, but more because it fits with English and I thought therefore it would make more sense as a choice, as well me thinking it would be liked generally by unis. If you don't mind me asking a couple more questions:
-If I were to take an English degree, considering all my A levels, would they prefer the additional music or philosophy or would it not really affect much?
-If I were to go for specifically a music composition degree, would they care much about instrument grades? Also, would they even necessarily need an A level in it for one, or would they really be looking for experience/examples of composition work?
Thanks again for your time on this, sorry for the delayed responses
-If I were to take an English degree, considering all my A levels, would they prefer the additional music or philosophy or would it not really affect much?
-If I were to go for specifically a music composition degree, would they care much about instrument grades? Also, would they even necessarily need an A level in it for one, or would they really be looking for experience/examples of composition work?
Thanks again for your time on this, sorry for the delayed responses
If I were to take an English degree, considering all my A levels, would they prefer the additional music or philosophy or would it not really affect much?
I don't think they would care. Having said that, I am not part of the admissions team so I can't say for certain. What I can say is that I have seen people being offered places on English Lit degrees with A Levels in English Lit, Psychology, Business, and Economics. It's a wide scope, so I don't think you can go wrong with music so long it's a high grade and you at least have English Lit in your arsenal.
If I were to go for specifically a music composition degree, would they care much about instrument grades? Also, would they even necessarily need an A level in it for one, or would they really be looking for experience/examples of composition work?
Unfortunately I am not that well versed in music degrees. As far as I know, they care more about your musical talents than what your grades are or your academic background. See the following for example:
https://www.lccm.org.uk/courses/undergraduate/bmus-hons-composition-for-film-games-other-media/
https://www.acm.ac.uk/courses/higher-education/music-composition/
https://www.uwl.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/composition-filmtheatre?start=995&option=33
https://www.rwcmd.ac.uk/course/bmus-composition
https://www.uca.ac.uk/study/courses/bmus-composition-for-screen/
I can only presume that they can care about your instrument grades, and having a grade 8 in your instrument can help your application. However, you would need to verify this with music students as well as the universities.
From the entry requirements from the above, you can see some courses will require A Level Music whereas others don't care as much. Those that tend to care tend to be from the standard universities, whereas those that don't are often musical colleges or universities specific to the arts. Having said that, they all care about your music ability (if you have none, they are not likely to be impressed).
If you want to cover all bases, then doing A Level Music would be a good way to cover all bases.
A number of the above did specify that a portfolio of work is expected, so having experience and examples of composition of work can only strengthen your application (if it's good of course).
I can't say where is a good place to study music or composition, so it's best if someone else answers this. Generally though, I don't think being overly academic would help (not that it would hurt either) your application for a music degree as far as I can see. If anything, it seems to suggest that the more academic you are, the less creative you will be.
(edited 9 months ago)
Original post by ShadowOtter
For A Levels the subjects I will definitely take next year are English Lit and Computer Science, which I'm good at. I'm also probably taking psychology. I unfortunately can't choose between Music and Philosophy and cannot choose both instead of Psychology because of subject blocks. I love music, but due to circumstances I'm not nearly at the required level for piano, my instrument (for a level, final is 8 mins of grade 7 for Edexcel, I am supposedly equivalent to grade 5 or so in my playing) and I feel like in terms of subjects Philosophy might be liked more by universities, especially as I'm likely taking an English course at uni.
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
music. mark my words
Original post by MindMax2000
If I were to take an English degree, considering all my A levels, would they prefer the additional music or philosophy or would it not really affect much?
I don't think they would care. Having said that, I am not part of the admissions team so I can't say for certain. What I can say is that I have seen people being offered places on English Lit degrees with A Levels in English Lit, Psychology, Business, and Economics. It's a wide scope, so I don't think you can go wrong with music so long it's a high grade and you at least have English Lit in your arsenal.
If I were to go for specifically a music composition degree, would they care much about instrument grades? Also, would they even necessarily need an A level in it for one, or would they really be looking for experience/examples of composition work?
Unfortunately I am not that well versed in music degrees. As far as I know, they care more about your musical talents than what your grades are or your academic background. See the following for example:
https://www.lccm.org.uk/courses/undergraduate/bmus-hons-composition-for-film-games-other-media/
https://www.acm.ac.uk/courses/higher-education/music-composition/
https://www.uwl.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/composition-filmtheatre?start=995&option=33
https://www.rwcmd.ac.uk/course/bmus-composition
https://www.uca.ac.uk/study/courses/bmus-composition-for-screen/
I can only presume that they can care about your instrument grades, and having a grade 8 in your instrument can help your application. However, you would need to verify this with music students as well as the universities.
From the entry requirements from the above, you can see some courses will require A Level Music whereas others don't care as much. Those that tend to care tend to be from the standard universities, whereas those that don't are often musical colleges or universities specific to the arts. Having said that, they all care about your music ability (if you have none, they are not likely to be impressed).
If you want to cover all bases, then doing A Level Music would be a good way to cover all bases.
A number of the above did specify that a portfolio of work is expected, so having experience and examples of composition of work can only strengthen your application (if it's good of course).
I can't say where is a good place to study music or composition, so it's best if someone else answers this. Generally though, I don't think being overly academic would help (not that it would hurt either) your application for a music degree as far as I can see. If anything, it seems to suggest that the more academic you are, the less creative you will be.
I don't think they would care. Having said that, I am not part of the admissions team so I can't say for certain. What I can say is that I have seen people being offered places on English Lit degrees with A Levels in English Lit, Psychology, Business, and Economics. It's a wide scope, so I don't think you can go wrong with music so long it's a high grade and you at least have English Lit in your arsenal.
If I were to go for specifically a music composition degree, would they care much about instrument grades? Also, would they even necessarily need an A level in it for one, or would they really be looking for experience/examples of composition work?
Unfortunately I am not that well versed in music degrees. As far as I know, they care more about your musical talents than what your grades are or your academic background. See the following for example:
https://www.lccm.org.uk/courses/undergraduate/bmus-hons-composition-for-film-games-other-media/
https://www.acm.ac.uk/courses/higher-education/music-composition/
https://www.uwl.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/composition-filmtheatre?start=995&option=33
https://www.rwcmd.ac.uk/course/bmus-composition
https://www.uca.ac.uk/study/courses/bmus-composition-for-screen/
I can only presume that they can care about your instrument grades, and having a grade 8 in your instrument can help your application. However, you would need to verify this with music students as well as the universities.
From the entry requirements from the above, you can see some courses will require A Level Music whereas others don't care as much. Those that tend to care tend to be from the standard universities, whereas those that don't are often musical colleges or universities specific to the arts. Having said that, they all care about your music ability (if you have none, they are not likely to be impressed).
If you want to cover all bases, then doing A Level Music would be a good way to cover all bases.
A number of the above did specify that a portfolio of work is expected, so having experience and examples of composition of work can only strengthen your application (if it's good of course).
I can't say where is a good place to study music or composition, so it's best if someone else answers this. Generally though, I don't think being overly academic would help (not that it would hurt either) your application for a music degree as far as I can see. If anything, it seems to suggest that the more academic you are, the less creative you will be.
Thanks again for all the help, as another option what do you think about picking maths rather than music/philosophy? Would it not be worth it considering that an English or Music degree is likely where I'm headed, or would it be more useful than philosophy as an alternative path + that it opens up CE, as well as that I know I'm capable at it?
Original post by ShadowOtter
For A Levels the subjects I will definitely take next year are English Lit and Computer Science, which I'm good at. I'm also probably taking psychology. I unfortunately can't choose between Music and Philosophy and cannot choose both instead of Psychology because of subject blocks. I love music, but due to circumstances I'm not nearly at the required level for piano, my instrument (for a level, final is 8 mins of grade 7 for Edexcel, I am supposedly equivalent to grade 5 or so in my playing) and I feel like in terms of subjects Philosophy might be liked more by universities, especially as I'm likely taking an English course at uni.
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
I did philosophy and music a level (dropped music after first year though) and music is EXTREMELY hard, for me it was because I didn't know enough music theory. But also, there is an insane amount of content for music A Level - most of which is memorising music theory uses in songs. I took it cus I loved music gcse, but music a level was a huge jump that I really struggled with - and tbh, all of the music theory felt kinda arbitrary anyway (imo lolol).
Philosophy has no coursework (music has a bunch) which is a huge pro, especially if ur doing English literature and Computer Science -- you'll really feel the burden if all 3 subjects have coursework. It's a very hard subject to do well in for sure, it is kind of like trying to navigate a dark room where u can't see the exit. But it was definitely more enjoyable for me hahaha
Original post by maia541
I did philosophy and music a level (dropped music after first year though) and music is EXTREMELY hard, for me it was because I didn't know enough music theory. But also, there is an insane amount of content for music A Level - most of which is memorising music theory uses in songs. I took it cus I loved music gcse, but music a level was a huge jump that I really struggled with - and tbh, all of the music theory felt kinda arbitrary anyway (imo lolol).
Philosophy has no coursework (music has a bunch) which is a huge pro, especially if ur doing English literature and Computer Science -- you'll really feel the burden if all 3 subjects have coursework. It's a very hard subject to do well in for sure, it is kind of like trying to navigate a dark room where u can't see the exit. But it was definitely more enjoyable for me hahaha
Philosophy has no coursework (music has a bunch) which is a huge pro, especially if ur doing English literature and Computer Science -- you'll really feel the burden if all 3 subjects have coursework. It's a very hard subject to do well in for sure, it is kind of like trying to navigate a dark room where u can't see the exit. But it was definitely more enjoyable for me hahaha
Thanks for the advice, which exam board were you? I would be Edexcel if I take music
Original post by ShadowOtter
Thanks again for all the help, as another option what do you think about picking maths rather than music/philosophy? Would it not be worth it considering that an English or Music degree is likely where I'm headed, or would it be more useful than philosophy as an alternative path + that it opens up CE, as well as that I know I'm capable at it?
Full disclaimer: I am a maths fan, so I am very likely be biased.
If you want the option to go into a computer science degree, maths should definitely be in your arsenal.
However, if you only intend to do a degree in English or Music, I very much doubt it would matter that much.
Having said that, if you are opting for a degree that accepts any random A Levels, maths would be one of the ones to have since it's one of the more academic and widely respected subjects out there.
It's unfortunately also one of the most difficult. (Further Maths arguably being the most difficult, but that's a debate for a different thread.) Maths at A Level is nothing like what it is at GCSE, so I wouldn't use it as a benchmark at all. If anything, I would try to gather opinions from those who did A Level Maths and get them to tell you the difference between A Level and GCSE Maths.
I would like to think by having A Level Maths, you would be open to the following degree subjects:
•
Maths and statistics
•
Computer Science and software engineering (you won't need A Level Computer Science on top)
•
Business analytics, data science, data analytics
•
Physics (if you did it with physics)
•
Engineering (if you have the appropriate science)
•
Finance, financial mathematics, financial engineering, actuarial science
•
Economics and MORSE
Again, if you don't intend to go down this route and are set on doing a degree either in English or Music, then I wouldn't think Maths would be relevant or that much helpful.
If you do decide to change your mind, you can always do the A Level privately (e.g. during a gap year) since it doesn't have any coursework/NEA with any of the exam boards. A Levels in subjects like music, English Lit, and CS aren't going to make life easy; doing coursework privately can cost £1000 on top of the exam costs (per A Level), and it's a complete pain to book it since significantly fewer exam centres would offer to take you for the coursework component of the A Level.
To me, if I am set on doing a degree in English or Music, then I would make sure that I would do these 2 subjects as A Levels just to cover all bases/entry requirements. The other subjects can be up to you and your preferences.
Don't get me wrong though, it doesn't mean that you can't get a degree in music or English lit if you did do Maths. I have come across someone who did Maths, Further Maths, Physics (subjects all set up for degrees in maths, engineering, economics, finance, computer science, and physics), and Music, and for reasons beyond me he picked a Music degree (I suppose it's what makes him the happiest). Likewise, picking A Level Maths won't hurt your chances either; it's really down to you though.
Original post by ShadowOtter
For A Levels the subjects I will definitely take next year are English Lit and Computer Science, which I'm good at. I'm also probably taking psychology. I unfortunately can't choose between Music and Philosophy and cannot choose both instead of Psychology because of subject blocks. I love music, but due to circumstances I'm not nearly at the required level for piano, my instrument (for a level, final is 8 mins of grade 7 for Edexcel, I am supposedly equivalent to grade 5 or so in my playing) and I feel like in terms of subjects Philosophy might be liked more by universities, especially as I'm likely taking an English course at uni.
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Also, psychology is slightly a risky option but I think it's likely I will enjoy it and it's one of the better options I have for what I am able to. The problem with it is that if it goes badly but so does music in terms of performance, I'm stuck with one of them.
Would appreciate advice on this, I can provide other factors if need be
Hey, idk if you've decided yet but I do music A level and almost took philosophy. The advice I can give you is philosophy requires a particular way of thinking so I would suggest watching a philosophy lecture or if your school does tasters go to a philosophy taster class - it will help you decide if you have a philosophy brain!
In terms of performance level for music, it's harder to gain marks than at GCSE. If you're playing at a lower level you can't access full marks because one of the marking criteria is difficulty. However most courses don't let you record performances until yr 13 so that means (if you practice) you could get to a grade 6 level before you need to submit performances. Also you don't need to do the grade just need to learn 8mins worth of pieces (which would be 3 pieces for a grade anyway).
Ultimately universities don't really care what other alevels you have as long as you have the requirements for the course - they only care about grades, so choose the one you'll enjoy the most and maybe think about grades but if it's your 4th alevel it doesn't matter as much.
Original post by MindMax2000
Full disclaimer: I am a maths fan, so I am very likely be biased.
If you want the option to go into a computer science degree, maths should definitely be in your arsenal.
However, if you only intend to do a degree in English or Music, I very much doubt it would matter that much.
Having said that, if you are opting for a degree that accepts any random A Levels, maths would be one of the ones to have since it's one of the more academic and widely respected subjects out there.
It's unfortunately also one of the most difficult. (Further Maths arguably being the most difficult, but that's a debate for a different thread.) Maths at A Level is nothing like what it is at GCSE, so I wouldn't use it as a benchmark at all. If anything, I would try to gather opinions from those who did A Level Maths and get them to tell you the difference between A Level and GCSE Maths.
I would like to think by having A Level Maths, you would be open to the following degree subjects:
Maths is sometimes considered a science, so along with psychology (which is also sometimes considered a science) and computer science (which is also sometimes considered a science), you can sometimes get into degrees for geology and life sciences. However, this would be stretching things by a lot, since if you intend to do a degree in STEM, you should have at least one core science (the traditional biology, chemistry, and physics) in your arsenal.
Again, if you don't intend to go down this route and are set on doing a degree either in English or Music, then I wouldn't think Maths would be relevant or that much helpful.
If you do decide to change your mind, you can always do the A Level privately (e.g. during a gap year) since it doesn't have any coursework/NEA with any of the exam boards. A Levels in subjects like music, English Lit, and CS aren't going to make life easy; doing coursework privately can cost £1000 on top of the exam costs (per A Level), and it's a complete pain to book it since significantly fewer exam centres would offer to take you for the coursework component of the A Level.
To me, if I am set on doing a degree in English or Music, then I would make sure that I would do these 2 subjects as A Levels just to cover all bases/entry requirements. The other subjects can be up to you and your preferences.
Don't get me wrong though, it doesn't mean that you can't get a degree in music or English lit if you did do Maths. I have come across someone who did Maths, Further Maths, Physics (subjects all set up for degrees in maths, engineering, economics, finance, computer science, and physics), and Music, and for reasons beyond me he picked a Music degree (I suppose it's what makes him the happiest). Likewise, picking A Level Maths won't hurt your chances either; it's really down to you though.
If you want the option to go into a computer science degree, maths should definitely be in your arsenal.
However, if you only intend to do a degree in English or Music, I very much doubt it would matter that much.
Having said that, if you are opting for a degree that accepts any random A Levels, maths would be one of the ones to have since it's one of the more academic and widely respected subjects out there.
It's unfortunately also one of the most difficult. (Further Maths arguably being the most difficult, but that's a debate for a different thread.) Maths at A Level is nothing like what it is at GCSE, so I wouldn't use it as a benchmark at all. If anything, I would try to gather opinions from those who did A Level Maths and get them to tell you the difference between A Level and GCSE Maths.
I would like to think by having A Level Maths, you would be open to the following degree subjects:
•
Maths and statistics
•
Computer Science and software engineering (you won't need A Level Computer Science on top)
•
Business analytics, data science, data analytics
•
Physics (if you did it with physics)
•
Engineering (if you have the appropriate science)
•
Finance, financial mathematics, financial engineering, actuarial science
•
Economics and MORSE
Again, if you don't intend to go down this route and are set on doing a degree either in English or Music, then I wouldn't think Maths would be relevant or that much helpful.
If you do decide to change your mind, you can always do the A Level privately (e.g. during a gap year) since it doesn't have any coursework/NEA with any of the exam boards. A Levels in subjects like music, English Lit, and CS aren't going to make life easy; doing coursework privately can cost £1000 on top of the exam costs (per A Level), and it's a complete pain to book it since significantly fewer exam centres would offer to take you for the coursework component of the A Level.
To me, if I am set on doing a degree in English or Music, then I would make sure that I would do these 2 subjects as A Levels just to cover all bases/entry requirements. The other subjects can be up to you and your preferences.
Don't get me wrong though, it doesn't mean that you can't get a degree in music or English lit if you did do Maths. I have come across someone who did Maths, Further Maths, Physics (subjects all set up for degrees in maths, engineering, economics, finance, computer science, and physics), and Music, and for reasons beyond me he picked a Music degree (I suppose it's what makes him the happiest). Likewise, picking A Level Maths won't hurt your chances either; it's really down to you though.
Original post by lauriel_paris
Hey, idk if you've decided yet but I do music A level and almost took philosophy. The advice I can give you is philosophy requires a particular way of thinking so I would suggest watching a philosophy lecture or if your school does tasters go to a philosophy taster class - it will help you decide if you have a philosophy brain!
In terms of performance level for music, it's harder to gain marks than at GCSE. If you're playing at a lower level you can't access full marks because one of the marking criteria is difficulty. However most courses don't let you record performances until yr 13 so that means (if you practice) you could get to a grade 6 level before you need to submit performances. Also you don't need to do the grade just need to learn 8mins worth of pieces (which would be 3 pieces for a grade anyway).
Ultimately universities don't really care what other alevels you have as long as you have the requirements for the course - they only care about grades, so choose the one you'll enjoy the most and maybe think about grades but if it's your 4th alevel it doesn't matter as much.
In terms of performance level for music, it's harder to gain marks than at GCSE. If you're playing at a lower level you can't access full marks because one of the marking criteria is difficulty. However most courses don't let you record performances until yr 13 so that means (if you practice) you could get to a grade 6 level before you need to submit performances. Also you don't need to do the grade just need to learn 8mins worth of pieces (which would be 3 pieces for a grade anyway).
Ultimately universities don't really care what other alevels you have as long as you have the requirements for the course - they only care about grades, so choose the one you'll enjoy the most and maybe think about grades but if it's your 4th alevel it doesn't matter as much.
Thank you for the advice, I've by now ultimately made my decision and dropped music, partially with the logic that I'm putting less pressure on myself and can still do music in my own time.
Original post by maia541
I did philosophy and music a level (dropped music after first year though) and music is EXTREMELY hard, for me it was because I didn't know enough music theory. But also, there is an insane amount of content for music A Level - most of which is memorising music theory uses in songs. I took it cus I loved music gcse, but music a level was a huge jump that I really struggled with - and tbh, all of the music theory felt kinda arbitrary anyway (imo lolol).
Philosophy has no coursework (music has a bunch) which is a huge pro, especially if ur doing English literature and Computer Science -- you'll really feel the burden if all 3 subjects have coursework. It's a very hard subject to do well in for sure, it is kind of like trying to navigate a dark room where u can't see the exit. But it was definitely more enjoyable for me hahaha
Philosophy has no coursework (music has a bunch) which is a huge pro, especially if ur doing English literature and Computer Science -- you'll really feel the burden if all 3 subjects have coursework. It's a very hard subject to do well in for sure, it is kind of like trying to navigate a dark room where u can't see the exit. But it was definitely more enjoyable for me hahaha
I had meant to reply, thank you so much for the advice, I've chosen to drop music and keep doing it in my own time to put less pressure on myself while still doing it and opening my options more at the same time, what you said helped me realise that that choice is most likely for the best.
Original post by ShadowOtter
I had meant to reply, thank you so much for the advice, I've chosen to drop music and keep doing it in my own time to put less pressure on myself while still doing it and opening my options more at the same time, what you said helped me realise that that choice is most likely for the best.
Cool. Have you decided what degree you wanted to do?
Original post by MindMax2000
Cool. Have you decided what degree you wanted to do?
Still not really certain, but English or something stemming from it is still looking most likely to be what I go for, I might end up looking at law as a potential option from there? (I would probably take a conversion course)
Also, depending on if I stick with psychology or maths, I could end up going with a psychology or CS degree instead if I were to really enjoy either and be good enough at them, though that's less likely at least from my point of view now
Original post by ShadowOtter
Still not really certain, but English or something stemming from it is still looking most likely to be what I go for, I might end up looking at law as a potential option from there? (I would probably take a conversion course)
Also, depending on if I stick with psychology or maths, I could end up going with a psychology or CS degree instead if I were to really enjoy either and be good enough at them, though that's less likely at least from my point of view now
Also, depending on if I stick with psychology or maths, I could end up going with a psychology or CS degree instead if I were to really enjoy either and be good enough at them, though that's less likely at least from my point of view now
I could end up going with a psychology or CS degree instead if I were to really enjoy either and be good enough at them, though that's less likely at least from my point of view now
Similar to the PGDL, you can do conversion courses for these (psychology conversion courses again will require to be BPS accredited in order for it to be useful in industry). Do note, some psychology undergrad degrees (most are even BPS accredited) don't require A Levels in specific subjects.
Whilst you can do conversion courses in CS, I don't see CS degrees necessary for roles in IT. Some employers might ask for it, but more often than not you can do a job in tech if you have the skills to back up your application. If anything, you can do professional IT certifications specific to the roles that you want to do (they're role specific).
The sort of roles that will require a CS degree would be those in some areas of bioinformatics (NHS), some top end tech firms, some IT companies who hired a recruiter with no clue of what they are looking for, and academia.
As far as I know, there are no postgrad "conversion courses" for English, but there are MAs for creative writing that accept undergrads in any subject.
Food for thought.
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