Mathematics Course Information
To study mathematics you generally need to be
good with numbers, be able to think clearly and
logically, to analyse situations, and to be
organised. If you enjoy Maths and feel confident
with the work you have met so far at GCSE, then
you should consider Maths AS or A level. It is
usual for you to have taken the higher level at
GCSE and gained an A or A* grade, this will make
sure that you have the necessary level of
understanding for A level study. Mathematics is a
demanding and challenging subject but it can be
an extremely rewarding one if you are prepared to
put in time and effort.
AQA
Currently the A Level course consists of 6 modules, 3 studied at AS level, and 3 more at A2. Everyone studies the four core pure mathematics modules, which cover algebra, calculus and geometry in the main. The other two modules are chosen from Statistics, Mechanics, or Decision Maths. The choice of your applied modules is generally based on what other subjects you have chosen – if you are looking for a career in business then Statistics is your best choice, whereas if you are interested in engineering based courses, then Mechanics would be more useful. There is also the option to study Further Mathematics in the second year, but this is only suitable if you are really good mathematically, and aiming for a university course that is mathematics based. Mathematics combines well with many subjects at A level, particularly the science subjects, Physics, Chemistry and Biology, as well as Economics, Business Studies, Geography and Psychology.
Maths has wide applications in industry, business, finance, science, technology and many other areas. Maths qualifications can help you towards a future career in these areas, and it is also a useful support for many University courses which increasingly can involve statistics or mechanics modules.
A degree in mathematics does not train you for a specific job. Rather it gives you a range of skills which will enable you to enter any of a wide range of careers. It is therefore a versatile qualification. By taking a mathematics degree, you are able to make your career choice when you are 21 rather than when you are 18.
EXAMINATION BOARD
AQA
MODULES
Currently the A Level course consists of 6 modules, 3 studied at AS level, and 3 more at A2. Everyone studies the four core pure mathematics modules, which cover algebra, calculus and geometry in the main. The other two modules are chosen from Statistics, Mechanics, or Decision Maths. The choice of your applied modules is generally based on what other subjects you have chosen – if you are looking for a career in business then Statistics is your best choice, whereas if you are interested in engineering based courses, then Mechanics would be more useful. There is also the option to study Further Mathematics in the second year, but this is only suitable if you are really good mathematically, and aiming for a university course that is mathematics based. Mathematics combines well with many subjects at A level, particularly the science subjects, Physics, Chemistry and Biology, as well as Economics, Business Studies, Geography and Psychology.
WHERE DOES IT LEAD?
Maths has wide applications in industry, business, finance, science, technology and many other areas. Maths qualifications can help you towards a future career in these areas, and it is also a useful support for many University courses which increasingly can involve statistics or mechanics modules.
A degree in mathematics does not train you for a specific job. Rather it gives you a range of skills which will enable you to enter any of a wide range of careers. It is therefore a versatile qualification. By taking a mathematics degree, you are able to make your career choice when you are 21 rather than when you are 18.
