Advice needed

I'm in lower sixth and do maths, physics and 3D design. I have no clue what I want to do but I get good grades, ( hoping for A*AA). I want to apply for a few Russel groups but I'm concerned my 3D design won't work for admission. I like the look of Law, physics, engineering and Architecture at uni but I'm not sure. I've already checked with my school and they won't allow me to take a 4th alevel. Does anyone have any advice?

Reply 1

Havermelkelite_

I don't know much abotu physics or engineering but I know a little about law and architecture. Perhaps others know better than me.

Usually for architecture you need to be able to show a portfolio for admissions. Usually this is art but 3D design may be useful (I would check with admissions, though!). Some people use their portfolio from their Art A-level but I do know people who have made their portfolio outside their studies. Otherwise, it may be possible to do a foundation year (which is a more common occurrence in the arts).

For law, keep in mind that in the UK is is not necessary to study law as an undergrad in order to become a lawyer. I know people who studied music, art, politics etc and are successful, highly paid lawyers. There is a postgraduate law conversion path that lots of people take, however, it will take 1 more year to qualify as a lawyer on average. If you want to apply for law as a degree then you would likely need an essay-based subject for that (but I do not reccommend taking Law A-Level).

You may be able to pursue another A-Level/AS Level/EPQ outside of school. Some subjects (like Art History) are usually only offered in private schools, so there are non-profit organisations that to make them available for free to state school students (such as Art-History Link-Up). Would be worthwhile to research if any exist for A-Level subjects you like.

Reply 2

Spaghettilegs

Thank you. Do you know if it would be possible to do it in a gap year. I'm not sure where I would start in looking.

Reply 3

McGinger

Good careers website with 100s of job / career profiles - Browse job profiles by sector | Prospects.ac.uk

Look at the entry requirements for the degree subjects you are interested in on some different Uni websites - their course pages will list any essential or 'preferred' A level and GCSE subjects under 'entry requirements' on each course page.
Undergraduate subject areas - University of Birmingham
Undergraduate courses | The University of Manchester
Explore your subject area | University of Salford

Reply 4

Spaghettilegs

Thank you

Reply 5

University of Salford

Official Rep

Original post by Spaghettilegs

Hey @Spaghettilegs ,

Those are great predicted grades, and a really nice combination of A Levels! If you're ever unsure if a university will consider your subject areas for their course even after looking on their website drop them an email - we're always happy to clarify, it never hurts to ask!

Your current subject areas actually line up well with the areas you're interested in largely - most engineering courses at lots of universities will ask for Maths and/or Physics, so lots of options open there. Law often doesn't have set subject areas required for it - we don't ask for any particular subjects to study it with ourselves, and from looking at a range of universities they don't either. I would check out a few universities pages that interest you for law and see what they're asking for - you might be surprised! You also don't need to study Law at undergraduate level in the UK to become a lawyer - there are postgraduate conversion courses, as mentioned on this thread.

For Architecture it can vary - again, I'd recommend taking a look at a range of universities to see what they ask for. We don't ask for any particular subject areas for the course, but do have a portfolio requirement, where subjects like 3D design could come in handy with transferrable skills (i.e. technical drawing!).

I think you'll be surprised when you look into different university requirements - for the areas you're interested in, you've made some really great A Level choices!

Good luck with your studies!
Becky
University of Salford Rep