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Are the subjects Physics,Maths and English enough to get an engineering degree in UK?

I'm starting AS levels pretty soon, and my confirmed chosen subjects are physics and maths, however with my 3rd option I'm not really sure if I should pick chemistry or english. I find chemistry to be very hard even at the supposed "easy" gcse level and it will get much worse in as and a levels, phy and maths will too but I can push through as I'm fond of those subjects. Chemistry drained me even at gcse's however I think picking chemistry would be a better option for uni applications to either mech/aero eng.

But then again, I'm not sure if I can get a good grade in chem, with english however, I can guarantee a good grade and it'll also be good for me as I enjoy it. The problem is unis though, I'm not sure if they'd accept me with Phy, Maths and Eng, and taking english would probably put me at a disadvantage compared to other applicants.
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Original post by maisiedonner
I'm starting AS levels pretty soon, and my confirmed chosen subjects are physics and maths, however with my 3rd option I'm not really sure if I should pick chemistry or english. I find chemistry to be very hard even at the supposed "easy" gcse level and it will get much worse in as and a levels, phy and maths will too but I can push through as I'm fond of those subjects. Chemistry drained me even at gcse's however I think picking chemistry would be a better option for uni applications to either mech/aero eng.
But then again, I'm not sure if I can get a good grade in chem, with english however, I can guarantee a good grade and it'll also be good for me as I enjoy it. The problem is unis though, I'm not sure if they'd accept me with Phy, Maths and Eng, and taking english would probably put me at a disadvantage compared to other applicants.

If Chemistry has been difficult for you, it’s likely that it will only get tougher at A-level, which could affect your overall performance. English, on the other hand, is something you enjoy and are confident in, which could help you secure a higher grade.

For engineering courses, most universities prioritise Maths and Physics, so having English as your third subject won’t necessarily put you at a disadvantage, especially if you excel in it. While some universities might prefer Chemistry, many will still consider you with strong grades in Maths and Physics. Plus, doing well in English can show you have strong communication skills, which are valuable in any field.

Ultimately, choose the subject where you feel you can do your best while maintaining your interest in learning. If you’re unsure, you might want to look at the specific entry requirements for the universities or courses you’re interested in to see how much weight they put on Chemistry. And Good luck with your A-Levels! 👍️
Original post by maisiedonner
I'm starting AS levels pretty soon, and my confirmed chosen subjects are physics and maths, however with my 3rd option I'm not really sure if I should pick chemistry or english. I find chemistry to be very hard even at the supposed "easy" gcse level and it will get much worse in as and a levels, phy and maths will too but I can push through as I'm fond of those subjects. Chemistry drained me even at gcse's however I think picking chemistry would be a better option for uni applications to either mech/aero eng.

But then again, I'm not sure if I can get a good grade in chem, with english however, I can guarantee a good grade and it'll also be good for me as I enjoy it. The problem is unis though, I'm not sure if they'd accept me with Phy, Maths and Eng, and taking english would probably put me at a disadvantage compared to other applicants.


Yes, although A-level Further Maths would be probably the first recommendation for an option for your third subject - not having that may make you less competitive for a couple of courses at the "top end". For the majority of courses including plenty of otherwise very strong engineering courses (e.g. Sheffield, Southampton, Birmingham, I believe Bath and Bristol probably too) you should be just fine with or without FM in terms of admissions (of course it's still very useful for when you're actually on the course), and your third subject otherwise can be whatever.

So I'd suggest considering FM as an option, but if that's not available then English is no better or worse than chemistry (perhaps unless applying to chemical engineering or maybe materials science/engineering).

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