A-Level Choices

I'm thinking of choosing to go into my career path doing Medicine, a main reason because of its supposedly high pay, but I'm opting to go into the Engineering field too. As of now, I'm currently thinking to choose Maths, Chemistry, Biology and Further Maths (if possible). Can someone clarify whether Engineering or Medicine pays more, and whether those A-Levels listed are optimal to get into the medicinal field?

Reply 1

user8420

Original post by studyfor9s

It’s great that you’re thinking carefully about your career options, but it's important to remember that both Medicine and Engineering can offer good salaries, and the pay can vary widely depending on your specialisation, location, and experience level. Medicine generally has a higher earning potential over the long term, especially in specialised fields, but it also requires a longer period of study and training. Engineering can also be very lucrative, especially in fields like aerospace, civil, or software engineering, but it tends to have a quicker path to entering the workforce.

Regarding your A-Level choices, Maths, Chemistry, and Biology are excellent for Medicine, as most medical schools require Chemistry and Biology, and Maths is often highly valued. Further Maths can also be beneficial, especially if you’re considering Engineering, but it's not typically required for Medicine.

If you’re still deciding between these two paths, your current choices keep both options open. If you find yourself leaning more toward Engineering later on, Further Maths will definitely be helpful. On the other hand, if you choose Medicine, your current subjects are well-aligned with the requirements.

Reply 2

McGinger

I'm thinking of choosing to go into my career path doing Medicine, a main reason because of its supposedly high pay

If that is your motivation for picking Medicine, do Engineering instead

Reply 3

studyfor9s

Original post by McGinger

I'm thinking of choosing to go into my career path doing Medicine, a main reason because of its supposedly high pay
If that is your motivation for picking Medicine, do Engineering instead

If I'm being honest, that is my main motivation without trying to sound fiscal, but do you know any other STEM-related fields that pay more? As of now, I'm likely to opt to try become a doctor.

Reply 4

studyfor9s

Original post by user8420

It’s great that you’re thinking carefully about your career options, but it's important to remember that both Medicine and Engineering can offer good salaries, and the pay can vary widely depending on your specialisation, location, and experience level. Medicine generally has a higher earning potential over the long term, especially in specialised fields, but it also requires a longer period of study and training. Engineering can also be very lucrative, especially in fields like aerospace, civil, or software engineering, but it tends to have a quicker path to entering the workforce.
Regarding your A-Level choices, Maths, Chemistry, and Biology are excellent for Medicine, as most medical schools require Chemistry and Biology, and Maths is often highly valued. Further Maths can also be beneficial, especially if you’re considering Engineering, but it's not typically required for Medicine.
If you’re still deciding between these two paths, your current choices keep both options open. If you find yourself leaning more toward Engineering later on, Further Maths will definitely be helpful. On the other hand, if you choose Medicine, your current subjects are well-aligned with the requirements.

Thank you for your in-depth response.

Reply 5

DerDracologe

Study Forum Helper

Original post by studyfor9s

Choosing a career based on pay isnt the best idea but I guess it’s your life. I would much rather love my job and earn less than hate it and be wealthy- money doesn’t buy happiness!
If you’re looking into engineering then physics is typically quite an important subject to have and often required for most engineering degrees (other than chemical engineering). So ideally for engineering maths and physics would be the two to go for. Further maths is good (especially for top unis) but i would say physics is more generally required across the field.
For medicine biology and chemistry are the two which will keep your options open as med schools usually require one or both of those.
Usually when people are stuck between degrees I would suggest to them to do an online course or watch some videos about the subjects to see which appeals more but if you’re sole focus is the money that wont help you.
Maybe take some time to think about what you love doing and whether money is more important to you than pursuing that.