A level options
A level options are in two days and I'm not really sure what i want to do as a career but it's definitely not anything that requires specific combinations like bio chem maths for medicine. I'm leaning towards the law sector maybe as a solicitor where I've learnt that i can take any degree and convert to a lawyer out of my own pocket.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
Reply 1
If you definitely won't be needing a science, the only A level I'd more firmly recommend is maths. Maths can be a requirement for a wide variety of degrees. Not law of course, but I also wanted to study law and then pulled a 180 and found I should've taken maths
Other than that, it's the same old story. A level specifics are not relevant beyond a handful of degree-requiring subjects so you should opt for what you enjoy and will score highest in. Even in the case of, say, politics, a massive % of degree-level students will not have studied law at A level and it is of no particular advantage
Other than that, it's the same old story. A level specifics are not relevant beyond a handful of degree-requiring subjects so you should opt for what you enjoy and will score highest in. Even in the case of, say, politics, a massive % of degree-level students will not have studied law at A level and it is of no particular advantage
(edited 3 weeks ago)
Reply 2
Gab098
OP
3
Original post by HoldThisL
If you definitely won't be needing a science, the only A level I'd more firmly recommend is maths. Maths can be a requirement for a wide variety of degrees. Not law of course, but I also wanted to study law and then pulled a 180 and found I should've taken maths
Other than that, it's the same old story. A level specifics are not relevant beyond a handful of degree-requiring subjects so you should opt for what you enjoy and will score highest in. Even in the case of, say, politics, a massive % of degree-level students will not have studied law at A level and it is of no particular advantage
Other than that, it's the same old story. A level specifics are not relevant beyond a handful of degree-requiring subjects so you should opt for what you enjoy and will score highest in. Even in the case of, say, politics, a massive % of degree-level students will not have studied law at A level and it is of no particular advantage
Thanks so much, these options were what I thought I would be best at and enjoy.
Reply 3
Original post by Gab098
A level options are in two days and I'm not really sure what i want to do as a career but it's definitely not anything that requires specific combinations like bio chem maths for medicine. I'm leaning towards the law sector maybe as a solicitor where I've learnt that i can take any degree and convert to a lawyer out of my own pocket.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
Taking these 4 subjects in combination would be very challenging as youve included a creative subject. If your school will allow you to, drop one subject either from your choices or during year 12. If youre considering law youll have to make your application very competitive so taking 4 is especially not recommended, seen youll need to prep for the lnat, do essay competitions and read a lot as you won’t have studied law before so you need to prove you have the interest and skills to take it. Is epq an option for you instead of a fourth? I have studied politics before (not a level though) and its very related to law so for that i would recommend you to take it! I can’t comment on English literature as i have no experience of how it differs at a level to gcse. If i were you, i would either swap art out for English lit and then drop whichever of English or politics you dont get on with at the start of the year after youve tried both. Or drop one of maths/chem/art and stick with either politics or English literature (again if you’re doing 3 you can take both then drop one during year 12).
Hello there!
It’s great that you are thinking carefully about your A-level options, even if you are not fully sure what career you want yet. Since you have already ruled out highly specialised paths like medicine, that gives you more flexibility to choose subjects that play to your strengths and keep your options open.
Universities and law firms value skills like critical thinking, essay writing, and analysis over specific subject combinations. Looking at your choices so far, you have got a nice balance of analytical, creative, and academic strengths.
But taking four A-levels can be very demanding, and most universities only require three, so it’s worth thinking about which subject might be best to drop if needed.
Your main thoughts between English Literature and Politics is completely understandable. English Lit is highly respected, develops strong analytical and essay-writing skills, and gives you more choice in texts at A-level, which often makes it more enjoyable. However, if you disliked the literature side of English before, you may still find it draining, even with more freedom.
Politics, on the other hand, is very relevant to law, helps you understand government, rights, and current affairs, and is often described as interesting and engaging, especially if you enjoy debates and real-world topics. It still requires strong writing skills, but in a more factual, structured way.
The good news is that both subjects are great for law and will help you build transferable skills, so there’s no wrong choice.
Try to use your upcoming taster sessions and counselling to see which subject feels more natural and engaging in the classroom. That will give you a clearer sense of what you will enjoy over two years.
Whatever you choose, you can shape it into a strong path forward.
Trust yourself!
You don’t need all the answers now, just a direction that feels right for you.
I hope this helps!
Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador
It’s great that you are thinking carefully about your A-level options, even if you are not fully sure what career you want yet. Since you have already ruled out highly specialised paths like medicine, that gives you more flexibility to choose subjects that play to your strengths and keep your options open.
Universities and law firms value skills like critical thinking, essay writing, and analysis over specific subject combinations. Looking at your choices so far, you have got a nice balance of analytical, creative, and academic strengths.
But taking four A-levels can be very demanding, and most universities only require three, so it’s worth thinking about which subject might be best to drop if needed.
Your main thoughts between English Literature and Politics is completely understandable. English Lit is highly respected, develops strong analytical and essay-writing skills, and gives you more choice in texts at A-level, which often makes it more enjoyable. However, if you disliked the literature side of English before, you may still find it draining, even with more freedom.
Politics, on the other hand, is very relevant to law, helps you understand government, rights, and current affairs, and is often described as interesting and engaging, especially if you enjoy debates and real-world topics. It still requires strong writing skills, but in a more factual, structured way.
The good news is that both subjects are great for law and will help you build transferable skills, so there’s no wrong choice.
Try to use your upcoming taster sessions and counselling to see which subject feels more natural and engaging in the classroom. That will give you a clearer sense of what you will enjoy over two years.
Whatever you choose, you can shape it into a strong path forward.
Trust yourself!
You don’t need all the answers now, just a direction that feels right for you.
I hope this helps!
Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador
Reply 5
Gab098
OP
3
Original post by DerDracologe
Taking these 4 subjects in combination would be very challenging as youve included a creative subject. If your school will allow you to, drop one subject either from your choices or during year 12. If youre considering law youll have to make your application very competitive so taking 4 is especially not recommended, seen youll need to prep for the lnat, do essay competitions and read a lot as you won’t have studied law before so you need to prove you have the interest and skills to take it. Is epq an option for you instead of a fourth? I have studied politics before (not a level though) and its very related to law so for that i would recommend you to take it! I can’t comment on English literature as i have no experience of how it differs at a level to gcse. If i were you, i would either swap art out for English lit and then drop whichever of English or politics you dont get on with at the start of the year after youve tried both. Or drop one of maths/chem/art and stick with either politics or English literature (again if you’re doing 3 you can take both then drop one during year 12).
I'm hearing all the things I didn't want to hear, I really wanted to keep my combo as it was a mix of everything I enjoyed or interested in ,but was always worried about the strength and combination. But its for the best so thank you for the advice, but what if I wasn't to take law and did politics or humanity at uni and take a conversion course as I hear that a law degree is quite boring and not really necessary for a job in the sector.
Reply 6
Original post by Gab098
I'm hearing all the things I didn't want to hear, I really wanted to keep my combo as it was a mix of everything I enjoyed or interested in ,but was always worried about the strength and combination. But its for the best so thank you for the advice, but what if I wasn't to take law and did politics or humanity at uni and take a conversion course as I hear that a law degree is quite boring and not really necessary for a job in the sector.
That would also be a viable option!
Either way, keeping an essay subject is a good idea as this seems to be your main interest.
Universities only look at 3 grades so taking 4 subjects for a levels is unnecessary stress. It’ll mean you have a lot fewer frees for studying too and a third more homework (plus loads of coursework for art).
My advice would be to take 1 essay subject of politics or English and then 2 of chem, maths and art. You could start with 4 (either both politics and English or all 3 of your other options) and then drop one after the first few weeks of year 12 / before Christmas break / at the end of year 12 etc.
You seem very unsure what subjects you actually are aspiring toward. Maybe researching some areas of interest within each subject would help? You could watch some documentaries or do an online course or two or read some books over the summer to explore your interests.
Reply 7
Gab098
OP
3
Original post by Coventry University Student Ambassadors
Hello there!
It’s great that you are thinking carefully about your A-level options, even if you are not fully sure what career you want yet. Since you have already ruled out highly specialised paths like medicine, that gives you more flexibility to choose subjects that play to your strengths and keep your options open.
Universities and law firms value skills like critical thinking, essay writing, and analysis over specific subject combinations. Looking at your choices so far, you have got a nice balance of analytical, creative, and academic strengths.
But taking four A-levels can be very demanding, and most universities only require three, so it’s worth thinking about which subject might be best to drop if needed.
Your main thoughts between English Literature and Politics is completely understandable. English Lit is highly respected, develops strong analytical and essay-writing skills, and gives you more choice in texts at A-level, which often makes it more enjoyable. However, if you disliked the literature side of English before, you may still find it draining, even with more freedom.
Politics, on the other hand, is very relevant to law, helps you understand government, rights, and current affairs, and is often described as interesting and engaging, especially if you enjoy debates and real-world topics. It still requires strong writing skills, but in a more factual, structured way.
The good news is that both subjects are great for law and will help you build transferable skills, so there’s no wrong choice.
Try to use your upcoming taster sessions and counselling to see which subject feels more natural and engaging in the classroom. That will give you a clearer sense of what you will enjoy over two years.
Whatever you choose, you can shape it into a strong path forward.
Trust yourself!
You don’t need all the answers now, just a direction that feels right for you.
I hope this helps!
Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador
It’s great that you are thinking carefully about your A-level options, even if you are not fully sure what career you want yet. Since you have already ruled out highly specialised paths like medicine, that gives you more flexibility to choose subjects that play to your strengths and keep your options open.
Universities and law firms value skills like critical thinking, essay writing, and analysis over specific subject combinations. Looking at your choices so far, you have got a nice balance of analytical, creative, and academic strengths.
But taking four A-levels can be very demanding, and most universities only require three, so it’s worth thinking about which subject might be best to drop if needed.
Your main thoughts between English Literature and Politics is completely understandable. English Lit is highly respected, develops strong analytical and essay-writing skills, and gives you more choice in texts at A-level, which often makes it more enjoyable. However, if you disliked the literature side of English before, you may still find it draining, even with more freedom.
Politics, on the other hand, is very relevant to law, helps you understand government, rights, and current affairs, and is often described as interesting and engaging, especially if you enjoy debates and real-world topics. It still requires strong writing skills, but in a more factual, structured way.
The good news is that both subjects are great for law and will help you build transferable skills, so there’s no wrong choice.
Try to use your upcoming taster sessions and counselling to see which subject feels more natural and engaging in the classroom. That will give you a clearer sense of what you will enjoy over two years.
Whatever you choose, you can shape it into a strong path forward.
Trust yourself!
You don’t need all the answers now, just a direction that feels right for you.
I hope this helps!
Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador
I've just had my first day of tasters, and I've found that I know very little about basic politics, and that my teacher doesn't recommend it if I'm unsure about the subject, but I'm up for the challenge to read and be caught up with current affairs, and I do quite like writing essays in general and are quite good at them. But I feel like I'm gaslighting myself somehow. English literature on the other hand so far was interesting and has always been something I found easy to do well in, but honestly I would dread the idea of seeing English literature on my timetable after GCSEs, hated the old literature we studied. I also wanted to ask about philosophy, because I won't have any tasters because I didn't put it as a reserve and I'm thinking about philosophy as another option to politics as It could be something I enjoy more, but I'm again unsure. I know about the long examinations and how it could be hard to understand, but it seems better than politics in terms of what I'm actually learning. I'm just so unsure of what to even study.
Reply 8
Original post by Gab098
A level options are in two days and I'm not really sure what i want to do as a career but it's definitely not anything that requires specific combinations like bio chem maths for medicine. I'm leaning towards the law sector maybe as a solicitor where I've learnt that i can take any degree and convert to a lawyer out of my own pocket.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
Hi there,
you are correct that law does not require an A-level combination exactly. My friend did A-Level history, textiles and business.
I did English literature at A-level, and while you do get to pick your own literature, it is for the coursework which is only worth 20% (at least when I did mine from 2018-2020!). Please ask your subject leads for the syllabus so you can have a look at the texts you will be studying.
I'd also suggest talking to your careers advisor. The important thing is to make an informed decision, which is what you are doing.
Kind regards, Jenifer (Kingston rep)
Reply 9
Original post by Gab098
A level options are in two days and I'm not really sure what i want to do as a career but it's definitely not anything that requires specific combinations like bio chem maths for medicine. I'm leaning towards the law sector maybe as a solicitor where I've learnt that i can take any degree and convert to a lawyer out of my own pocket.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
I'm currently a law student, so while I didn’t take any of the A Levels you're deciding between myself, I’ll do my best to offer some general advice based on what I’ve picked up along the way. Just to say — I’m not an expert or anything, but hopefully this helps a bit.
First of all, it's great that you're thinking this through so carefully. A lot of people don’t even consider how their subject choices might connect to future paths, so you're already off to a really solid start. And you're absolutely right, if you're thinking about going into law, especially as a solicitor, you don’t need specific A Levels. Law is really open in that sense, and you can definitely convert into it later no matter what degree you end up doing.
In terms of English Lit vs Politics, I think either would serve you well for law. Both subjects develop skills that are super useful, like critical thinking, essay writing, and forming arguments. English Lit is great for analysis and writing in detail, and if you’re good at it already, you might find A Level more enjoyable, especially since you get more say in the texts you study. That can make a big difference.
That said, I do think Politics might feel more relevant day-to-day, especially if you're interested in how systems work or enjoy debating. A lot of students I know found it engaging and quite current. And from a law student’s perspective, I can say that a surprising number of Politics topics actually pop up again during your degree, things like constitutional law, the structure of government, and even political theory often overlap with what we study in Public Law or EU Law. So having that background might give you a bit of a head start or at least help some things click faster.
You’ve already got quite a range with Maths, Chemistry and Art, so this last choice is really about balancing your strengths and making sure you’ll enjoy what you’re studying. Since you’ve got taster sessions and counselling coming up, I’d definitely use that time to get a feel for the content and how the subjects are taught. Sometimes just sitting in on a lesson can make things much clearer.
Whatever you pick, you’re in a really good position and you honestly can’t go wrong between the two. Best of luck deciding, it sounds like you’re already making really thoughtful choices!
Reply 10
Original post by Kingston Jenifer
Hi there,
you are correct that law does not require an A-level combination exactly. My friend did A-Level history, textiles and business.
Jenifer (Kingston rep)
you are correct that law does not require an A-level combination exactly. My friend did A-Level history, textiles and business.
Jenifer (Kingston rep)
Sorry, are you honestly saying that two out of the three A levels accepted for law at your institution are textiles and business studies?
Seriously?
Reply 11
Original post by Reality Check
Sorry, are you honestly saying that two out of the three A levels accepted for law at your institution are textiles and business studies?
Seriously?
Seriously?
Good morning!
I was referring to a friend at another university 🙂 simply to show the variety of A-levels that can be accepeted.
I would say that subjects that are more essay based may serve you well in law - English literature is good for analysis and essay writing - my coursework for English lit taught me a lot about referencing for example, which is essential for your coursework at university.
It is completely up to you what you take! While you do not need a specific combination, I would pick ones that help you develop skills such as essay writing and critical thinking skills.
Kind regards, Jenifer (Kingston rep)
Reply 12
Original post by Gab098
I've just had my first day of tasters, and I've found that I know very little about basic politics, and that my teacher doesn't recommend it if I'm unsure about the subject, but I'm up for the challenge to read and be caught up with current affairs, and I do quite like writing essays in general and are quite good at them. But I feel like I'm gaslighting myself somehow. English literature on the other hand so far was interesting and has always been something I found easy to do well in, but honestly I would dread the idea of seeing English literature on my timetable after GCSEs, hated the old literature we studied. I also wanted to ask about philosophy, because I won't have any tasters because I didn't put it as a reserve and I'm thinking about philosophy as another option to politics as It could be something I enjoy more, but I'm again unsure. I know about the long examinations and how it could be hard to understand, but it seems better than politics in terms of what I'm actually learning. I'm just so unsure of what to even study.
I'd say look at the specification specific to the exam boards your school choses. Look at the topics and the past papers to see what sort of questions you'll be doing and whether that suits you. Lots of law degrees are also combined eith Politics and you'll still get an LLB. so it could be an option if you take the A-level. Also politics is obviously very relevant to society in general and I highly recommend for the essay skills which present arguments clearly and will be more useful to you for law than chemistry a-level.
I think it's best you take subjects your passionate in and English Literature is a very respected A-level, if your aiming for law, I would stick to more essay subjects but maths is a good choice if your good at it and also means you keep your options open if you change your mind.
I did 4 A-levels and whilst there's more content, if you keep organised, it's fine and there's no point going to a subject to drop it later on; either do 3 for the start or stick to 4 if you ask me. It gives you more options, if you are passionate about the subjects, and keep organised, it's honestly not as difficult as everyone's making out. Also you don't need A*A*A*A* - people make out that if you get an A or B in a 4th subject because universities focus on 3 it's a waste. The knowledge is never a waste neither are the skills and sometimes it can keep your options open or change your mind on something. It can also mean you do get leeway with offers and you never know when it can be useful.
Reply 13
Original post by Gab098
I've just had my first day of tasters, and I've found that I know very little about basic politics, and that my teacher doesn't recommend it if I'm unsure about the subject, but I'm up for the challenge to read and be caught up with current affairs, and I do quite like writing essays in general and are quite good at them. But I feel like I'm gaslighting myself somehow. English literature on the other hand so far was interesting and has always been something I found easy to do well in, but honestly I would dread the idea of seeing English literature on my timetable after GCSEs, hated the old literature we studied. I also wanted to ask about philosophy, because I won't have any tasters because I didn't put it as a reserve and I'm thinking about philosophy as another option to politics as It could be something I enjoy more, but I'm again unsure. I know about the long examinations and how it could be hard to understand, but it seems better than politics in terms of what I'm actually learning. I'm just so unsure of what to even study.
I'd say look at the specification specific to the exam boards your school choses. Look at the topics and the past papers to see what sort of questions you'll be doing and whether that suits you. Lots of law degrees are also combined eith Politics and you'll still get an LLB. so it could be an option if you take the A-level. Also politics is obviously very relevant to society in general and I highly recommend for the essay skills which present arguments clearly and will be more useful to you for law than chemistry a-level.
I think it's best you take subjects your passionate in and English Literature is a very respected A-level, if your aiming for law, I would stick to more essay subjects but maths is a good choice if your good at it and also means you keep your options open if you change your mind.
I did 4 A-levels and whilst there's more content, if you keep organised, it's fine and there's no point going to a subject to drop it later on; either do 3 for the start or stick to 4 if you ask me. It gives you more options, if you are passionate about the subjects, and keep organised, it's honestly not as difficult as everyone's making out. Also you don't need A*A*A*A* - people make out that if you get an A or B in a 4th subject because universities focus on 3 it's a waste. The knowledge is never a waste neither are the skills and sometimes it can keep your options open or change your mind on something. It can also mean you do get leeway with offers and you never know when it can be useful.
Reply 14
Original post by Gab098
A level options are in two days and I'm not really sure what i want to do as a career but it's definitely not anything that requires specific combinations like bio chem maths for medicine. I'm leaning towards the law sector maybe as a solicitor where I've learnt that i can take any degree and convert to a lawyer out of my own pocket.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
I've picked so far:
Maths
Chemistry
Politics
Art
I'm unsure whether to take English literature or politics, but I don't really want to take both, as while I'm good at English literature and enjoyed most of it, i hated what we studied, but at a level we get to pick out our own literature. And as for politics ive been recommended as interesting and personally would've thought it would have been more useful and relevant. Any advice? I have tasters and counselling thes next few days as well.
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