Geography sociology biology a level

Is this a good combo considering I have virtually no idea of what I want to do after a level? Hoping its a decent variety and keeps enough doors open

Reply 1

uniofleicSTEM

Official Rep

Original post

by selliea

Is this a good combo considering I have virtually no idea of what I want to do after a level? Hoping its a decent variety and keeps enough doors open

Hello! Don't worry about not knowing what you want to do after your A-levels - I was in the same boat and I'm sure a lot of people are! It's important that you choose subjects that interest you and that you'll enjoy studying. It sounds like you've chosen a nice mix of subjects that will teach you a range of skills.

If you're considering going to university, it might be a good idea to do a bit of research into any subjects you think you might be interested in studying, and check whether they ask for specific A-levels. This can vary across universities, so just because some ask for subject specific A-levels, others might not.

If you did decide to go to university in the future, there is also the option of Foundation Year programmes if you haven't taken the subjects they ask for.

Hope this helps!

Daisy,
University of Leicester

Reply 2

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post

by selliea

Is this a good combo considering I have virtually no idea of what I want to do after a level? Hoping its a decent variety and keeps enough doors open

Hey,

You're a-level choices sound brilliant!!

I am currently a second year BSc Geography student at Lancaster University. I studied Geography, Sociology and Criminology for my A-levels. Unfortunately I have not studied biology, however one of my friends have so will try answer you're inquiry the best I can for you. ☺️

Biology will keep science as a subject such as plants, and human anatomy open for future potential job opportunities. If you then decided to study this later at degree level, and wanted to go into a biological science this will be a potential path for you. You're then able to go onto further study to either specialise or decide you want to become more specifically. Just biology won't close the door for science as a subject whole. It just may take slightly longer to get to a certain end goal, once you've decided a specific path, such as medicine and veterinary. The only opportunity which may close would be potentially physics.

Geography and sociology match greatly as a subject.
They both provide you with well rounded knowledge of global dynamics, essay frameworks, and societal structures. Giving you baseline knowledge for a social science degree later on.

Specifically at Lancaster University geography has 4 different geography specific routes you can take depending on your options and is flexible for you to swap between a couple of these depending on your degree: physical geography, human geography, BSc geography and BA geography. This allows you to explore more in depth about geography, and specifically about what you prefer to study. There are also other options of study such as ecology, natural sciences, environmental science and more which come under the umbrella term of LEC. Even if a biology degree is chosen, environmental based modules are still available.

Sociology generates an understanding for social dynamics, and essay writing skills, linking nicely to human geography modules and essay structure. If a social science route becomes something you would prefer to take, this would open doors for other social science degrees such as psychology and criminology, while linking nicely to your other A-level options.

Additionally, some universities allow social science to be considered as a science, in place of chemistry or physics if biology was the route for you.

Your options allow you to learn a wide range of knowledge which can be applied to multiple study areas and link together well, as well as career opportunities if University is something which does not take your interest.

During A-levels you will find something you're really passionate about, and what you want to look into more which will help you pursue your future goals whether this is University or a job. There is not one set path and you will end up going into a career which you love if you study what you enjoy.

Goodluck with your decision and GCSEs.
Work hard and remember to rest!! ❤️💯

Rebekah (Lancaster University Student Ambassador).

Reply 3

DerDracologe

Study Forum Helper

Original post

by selliea

Is this a good combo considering I have virtually no idea of what I want to do after a level? Hoping its a decent variety and keeps enough doors open

Great combination if you enjoy all these subjects! This will keep your options open for some life science degrees as well as humanities.

Reply 4

Emma:-)

Entertainment Forum Helper, Careers Forum Helper

Original post

by selliea

Is this a good combo considering I have virtually no idea of what I want to do after a level? Hoping its a decent variety and keeps enough doors open

Your a-level subjects sound fine.
I did geography and sociology myself and loved them both.

Reply 5

derangeddear

Honestly, if you have no clear idea yet, that’s completely normal. A combo that gives you a mix of essay-based and analytical subjects is usually a safe bet because it keeps a wide range of degrees open.
The key question isn’t just “does this keep doors open?” but also “can I realistically do well in these subjects for two years?” Strong grades matter more than having the “perfect” combination. As long as you’re not accidentally closing off something very specific (like medicine without Biology), a balanced mix is a solid approach. You don’t need your whole future figured out right now.
@Drift Hunters