A Level options for AI/Data Science/ML etc.

Hi, I'm going into college next year and have started to think about careers etc. My A-Levels - not finalised - are maths, comp sci, english lit and an EPQ. I want to go into AI etc. and I know that they're very maths based. I'm not entirely sure if these potential options would suit a career or even get me an offer so I'm considering ditching the EPQ for FM and maybe fit physics in somewhere as I've heard it is a good option for AI.
I'm not even sure if AI at this stage would be a viable career or not so advice on any front would be appreciated.
As for my GCSEs I am predicted eight 9s and an 8 (in German)

Reply 1

ethantoal

Given your high GCSEs, I would assume you would be aiming for selective unis? If this is the case then further maths would be extremely beneficial, to the point of being an unofficial requirement at some places unless you have a good excuse for not doing it e.g. your school doesn't offer it. Aside from that, Maths and comp sci are good choices. English lit is slightly different, but not necessarily an issue. A science subject (ideally Physics) or maybe Economics would probably be more ideal choices than English, but you can definitely still go into AI or data science with English, it just may be slightly harder.
In terms of degrees for the fields you've mentioned, a degree in Maths, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics would all be ideal choices, but of course there are other ways. But for all of these choices, at top unis, further maths is highly desirable, you should definitely consider it. At most sixth forms you can always drop fm in year 13 if you don't like it (assuming it's taken as a 4th A Level)

Reply 2

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by username7326189

Hello,

You are correct in that Data Science and ML are quite maths-heavy. While there are AI-specific courses, most universities teach AI and ML as part of a BSc/MSci/BEng/MEng Computer Science degree.
The need for Further Mathematics or Physics depends on the exact course and universities that you are willing to go into.
For example, at Imperial you are required to have A* in Maths, and Further Maths is heavily recommended. However, at some universities, Further Maths is still seen as a bonus, but not studying will not disadvantage you. At Lancaster University, Maths is not a requirement for doing a regular Computer Science degree, and you get to study AI and data-focused modules in year 2.
Somewhat surprisingly, at Imperial AI and ML modules are not studied until the 3rd year of the Computing (even the AI and ML Meng course), and also English Literature is listed as one of the preferred subjects.

Physics is quite a good option because it provides you with additional numerical skills, and the report writing experience within the subject also is quite useful for doing almost any degree. However, A-level physics specifically is directly relevant probably only to Quantum and Robotics.

Ultimately, choose something that you would enjoy doing and can do well in. If you are interested in Maths, then FM is a great and competitive option. However, if you find yourself struggling, remember that there are plenty of great courses that are less maths-heavy in terms of entry requirements (and even contents) and still provide a good coverage of AI/ Data Science/ ML.

Lastly, AI is not a career. It is a very broad umbrella term. At your stage, I would advise to not worry too much about a specific career. Selecting a degree like Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, CS and Maths, AI, and such will give you a great background and set you up for a wide array of career paths: from data and systems engineering to economics, data analytics, scientific research, finance and fintech, and even more business roles. All of the above-mentioned degrees are great in terms of career prospects.

Good luck and all the best,
Polina,
Lancaster University Computing Student Ambassador.