A level advice

Hi, I'm doing 4 A levels: maths, physics, biology, and computer science (self-study for computing). This past month has been very intense, I'm struggling a lot in maths, and I am currently doing very well in biology and physics. I am looking for advice if it would be wise to switch to core maths because I'm behind in A-level maths, and It's taking too much of my time and I am unable to focus on the other subjects. I would also like to ask if it will affect my progression into doing computer science (maybe physics) in college or apprenticeships.

Reply 1

University of Bath

Official Rep

Original post by Deerfox

Hello @Deerfox ,

Its great to hear you're looking into going into computer science! In my experience most uni courses for CS and some apprenticeships ask for A level maths and so in that respect I'd try to stick at it if you can - please remember to use your teachers for support if you feel you are behind. However its more important that you put your own wellbeing first and so if pushing through with your four subjects (particularly A level maths) is causing you undue stress then perhaps ask your teacher is they think moving to core would be advisable.

I'd say that keeping at A level maths would open up more doors for you in the CS/Physics field and that its important to carefully check the requirements of programmes you may want to apply for. However, some computer science/data management apprenticeships do not ask for maths but instead may ask for a numerate subject, meaning your sciences would be fine. You are the best judge of what feels right for you. Perhaps chat to your family and your careers advisor to see if they can offer their opinion as this may help you to decide.

I hope this helps and best of luck in your next steps 🙂

Holly
University of Bath

(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 2

Kingston Reps

Official Rep

Hey @Deerfox,

I'd recommend checking the A-Level subject requirements for any Computer Science/Physics university courses you might be interested in studying. Unfortunately, lots of universities do require Maths A-Level for Computer Science courses as it's quite mathematically based - if you feel like you're struggling in particular with that subject, it might be useful to look into tutoring or apporaching your teachers for help. It could be that you'll just have to dedicate a bit of extra time to Maths revision until you get a good grasp on the material.

Best of luck, and hope it all works out for you soon!
Eve (Kingston Rep).