Mathematics A level

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, and Maths at grade 7 or above.

Mathematics is the science of pattern and structure. Like language, religion and music, it is a universal part of human culture. Mathematics has a pervasive influence on our everyday lives, from analysing statistics in medical research, to designing safe structures and vehicles, to encrypting personal data to be transmitted securely across the internet. Mathematics is stimulating, enjoyable and challenging in its own right, but also provides excellent support for science subjects. Mathematics is ideal for those who enjoy using algebra to solve problems.

Two thirds of the course extends the work from GCSE on geometry, quadratic functions, trigonometry and sequences, as well as introducing new topics of calculus and logarithms. The remaining third of the course covers applications in mechanics and statistics.

The department also offers Further Maths and Statistics at A Level - please see separate course pages. Please note that Further Maths AS Level is available as an additional course in year 2 for those students who wish to make competitive entries to Maths degree courses and need to extend their mathematical subject knowledge.

The course is assessed by three external exams at the end of the two years.

A Levels in Maths will develop key employability skills such as problem solving, logical reasoning, communication and resilience, and as such, having a mathematics qualification is highly regarded, even in careers which do not use mathematics directly. Mathematical techniques are used and applied in a wide range of university courses including: Physics, Engineering, Computing, Psychology, Biology, Chemistry, Architecture, Medicine, Business, Economics and Finance.

The majority of students progress to university studying a range of courses from Aerospace Engineering to Biomedical Science or Gaming Technology. Students who study the double option of Maths and Further Maths typically progress into Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or Medicine.

Each year students have the opportunity to participate in the Senior Maths Challenge and visits are organised to lectures by leading mathematicians working in academia and industry.

You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button and then add an additional 2 or 3 subjects to make up your academic programme. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study on the application page. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 260401 or email: admissions@scg.ac.uk