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Will it matter if I do chemistry private as I didn't hit thr grade requirement?

I didn't get the grade I needed during GCSEs as I was going through alot and didn't hit my prediction. As a result I cannot do the Chemistry A level which is needed for pharmacy. Should I still do as a private candidate or will there be no point as even if I get and A in my A level my GCSE grade will make it look bad. If I should, I'd what other uni courses I can do with Biology Maths and Economics which pay as good as pharmacy and is in the Medical industry.

Reply 1

manu08manu

Applogies for the long message, you have a couple of options:

Option 1: Retaking GCSE Chemistry as a Private Candidate

Is it worth retaking? Retaking your GCSE Chemistry as a private candidate could be worth it if:

You are confident you can achieve a strong grade (e.g., 7 or above).

You are committed to doing the A-level and pursuing pharmacy afterwards.

You meet the minimum GCSE grade requirements for pharmacy (some universities may accept a retaken grade, others may not - you have to ask arround.).
Universities often accept retaken GCSE grades, especially if you have a legitimate reason for underperformance the first time. You could explain your situation in your personal statement to show resilience and determination.

Impact of a low GCSE grade A strong A-level grade in Chemistry (e.g., an A or A*) often outweighs a previous GCSE grade if the university requirements are met. Universities understand that growth and improvement matter. However, you’d need to carefully research the universities you’re interested in, as some may place more weight on GCSEs than others.

Option 2: Exploring Other University Courses in the Medical Industry
If retaking GCSE Chemistry and pursuing A-level Chemistry isn’t a viable option, here are some alternative paths based on your current A-levels (Biology, Maths, and Economics):
1. Biomedical Sciences

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Description: Focuses on understanding the biology of diseases and developing treatments.

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Career Opportunities: Research scientist, clinical scientist, roles in pharmaceutical companies.

2. Healthcare Data Analytics or Health Economics

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Description: Combines economics, data, and healthcare to improve patient outcomes and resource allocation.

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Career Opportunities: Data analyst in healthcare, health economist, roles in public health or private healthcare firms.

3. Physician Associate Studies

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Description: A postgraduate qualification after a science-based undergraduate degree, enabling you to work as a physician associate under doctors’ supervision.

4. Nursing or Midwifery

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Description: A highly rewarding profession with plenty of opportunities for career advancement (e.g., nurse consultant, advanced practitioner).

5. Dentistry

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Description: With strong Biology and Maths, some universities may accept you onto a dentistry course.

6. Optometry

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Description: Focuses on eye care and prescribing lenses (the opticians on the high street, and not to be confused with the ophthalmology department in a hospital).

7. Pharmaceutical Sciences

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Description: Similar to pharmacy but focused on research and drug development.

How to Decide

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If pharmacy is your dream: Retaking GCSE Chemistry and pursuing A-level Chemistry is worth considering. Reach out to universities to confirm their stance on retakes.

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If you’re unsure: Research the alternative careers above. Look into degree requirements for each, and shadow professionals in those fields if possible to gauge your interest.