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Help me with my options please

Hello,

I’m currently having to apply to places and pick A- levels. Currently I’m thinking of doing Physics, maths and economics. My initial idea was to be an engineer but I don’t know if I actually want to do that. And so I thought maybe it would be better to pick chemistry instead of physics since you can go into certain healthcare fields. However I’m not sure what I want to do after a level. I don’t know which is better since I’m unable to potentially go into medicine without chemistry and I’m unable to go into engineering without physics. I’m also lost between economics and business. I have no clue. Any advice ?
(edited 11 months ago)

Reply 1

Best thing to do would be to check the requirements of the unis u might want to apply to. I don't know much about either of the courses but from what I've heard most medical schools require chemistry, but there are some engineering courses that don't require physics (e.g. chemical engineering).

If ur worried about closing off ur options, the most obvious thing to do would be to drop economics and pick chemistry instead. It has little relevance to both the courses ur thinking of doing. Even if u did decide to choose an economics related course in the future, economics A level isn't required. If u really want to keep it tho, I'd choose economics over business as it's more respected by some of the top unis.

There's also the option of taking 4 A levels then dropping the one u like least (I don't recommend it tho since it's a lot of work and most unis only consider 3 anyway)

Reply 2

Original post
by pagan-scimitar
Best thing to do would be to check the requirements of the unis u might want to apply to. I don't know much about either of the courses but from what I've heard most medical schools require chemistry, but there are some engineering courses that don't require physics (e.g. chemical engineering).
If ur worried about closing off ur options, the most obvious thing to do would be to drop economics and pick chemistry instead. It has little relevance to both the courses ur thinking of doing. Even if u did decide to choose an economics related course in the future, economics A level isn't required. If u really want to keep it tho, I'd choose economics over business as it's more respected by some of the top unis.
There's also the option of taking 4 A levels then dropping the one u like least (I don't recommend it tho since it's a lot of work and most unis only consider 3 anyway)

Thank you that was really helpful

Reply 3

Original post
by CherryGeo
Hello,
I’m currently having to apply to places and pick A- levels. Currently I’m thinking of doing Physics, maths and economics. My initial idea was to be an engineer but I don’t know if I actually want to do that. And so I thought maybe it would be better to pick chemistry instead of physics since you can go into certain healthcare fields. However I’m not sure what I want to do after a level. I don’t know which is better since I’m unable to potentially go into medicine without chemistry and I’m unable to go into engineering without physics. I’m also lost between economics and business. I have no clue. Any advice ?


Pick Maths, Physics and Chemistry. Those open up more options for you.
Hey there!

Choosing your A-level subjects can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure about your future career path. The good news is that you can select subjects that keep multiple options open while matching your interests and strengths.

Here’s some advice to help you decide, with suggestions for degree options at Coventry University that align with your choices.

If you’re considering Physics or Chemistry, think about your long-term goals. Physics is essential if you’re interested in engineering or technical careers. It develops problem-solving and analytical skills that are crucial for degrees like
Mechanical Engineering - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/eec/mechanical-engineering-mengbeng-hons/,
Civil Engineering - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/eec/civil-engineering-bsc/, or
Automotive Engineering https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/eec/automotive-engineering-mengbeng-hons/.

On the other hand, Chemistry is critical for healthcare and life sciences, making it a key requirement for fields like medicine or pharmacy.

At Coventry University, you can explore programs such as
Health and Social Care - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/cus/course-structure/hnc-hnd-degree/health-social-care/?type=foundation or
Nursing and Allied Health Professions Foundation Year - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/cuc/course-structure/foundation/nursing-allied-health-professions/

When deciding between Economics and Business, consider your interests and the type of career you envision. Economics focuses on analyzing markets and policies, ideal for careers in finance, policymaking, or data analysis. Coventry University offers a strong
Economics BSc (Hons) - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/fbl/economics-bsc-hons/ program.

Business, however, is more practical and hands-on, with a focus on management, entrepreneurship, and strategy. It’s perfect for aspiring leaders or entrepreneurs, with courses like
Business Management - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/fbl/business-management-ba-hons/ or
International Business - https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/fbl/international-business-management-bsc-hons/.

If you’re unsure, consider combinations like Maths, Physics, and Economics to keep engineering, finance, and technical fields open. Alternatively, Maths, Chemistry, and Economics can lead to opportunities in healthcare, finance, and business.
Choose subjects you enjoy and excel in, as this will make your studies more rewarding and keep your options flexible for the future.
Remember, your A-level choices don’t have to lock you into one path. They should give you room to explore and grow as your interests develop.
Coventry University offers excellent programs across these fields, supporting a wide range of career aspirations.

I hope this helps!
Good luck with your choices! 😊

Best Regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador

Reply 5

Original post
by CherryGeo
Hello,
I’m currently having to apply to places and pick A- levels. Currently I’m thinking of doing Physics, maths and economics. My initial idea was to be an engineer but I don’t know if I actually want to do that. And so I thought maybe it would be better to pick chemistry instead of physics since you can go into certain healthcare fields. However I’m not sure what I want to do after a level. I don’t know which is better since I’m unable to potentially go into medicine without chemistry and I’m unable to go into engineering without physics. I’m also lost between economics and business. I have no clue. Any advice ?

Hey @CherryGeo,

If you're primarily considering STEM fields in the future (engineering/healthcare), I'd also recommend Physics, Maths and Chemistry. If you do choose to pursue an economics/finance degree in the future, Maths A-Level should cover most universities' subject requirements for those degrees, and you shouldn't be at any disadvantage with having Physics and Chemistry A-Level as well. Economics and Business are objectively good subjects, but they're much more essay-based than STEM-based, which might not suit your needs.

Best of luck!
Eve (Kingston Rep).

Reply 6

Original post
by RadTutor
Pick Maths, Physics and Chemistry. Those open up more options for you.

I agree with this. Econ is not very useful in terms of opening uni options nor would it really help with an econ degree much, nothing that would make you insanely ahead of most.

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