Maths is a fundamental skill that underpins a variety of specialist skills. Taking an A-level in Maths is often the first step into a rewarding career within fields such as computing, business & finance, and even within the healthcare field.
A-level Maths should not be confused with Further Maths, which is an added layer to what is covered in the core A-level. Some Further Maths topics are considered to be more challenging than in A-level Maths, so it's worth exploring both depending on the career path you want to take.
Here, we will take a look some of the careers that you can pursue with a qualification in A-level Maths.
Finance and Accounting
A career within finance ranges from bookkeeping through to being an independent financial or pensions adviser. Depending on whether you aspire to be own boss someday or work for a large organisation, A-level Maths is where these career paths begin.
Combining A-level Maths with a subject such as business studies or a specific sector enables you to bring the analytical side of maths with transferable skills to master both sides. Similarly, you may find that you need to work with clients or financial service providers in order to negotiate appropriate deals, so it may be worth exploring other courses to enhance your written and communication skills.
Engineering and Energy
Many of the skills taught within the maths arena, such as problem-solving and understanding complex equations, translate neatly into careers within the engineering sector. Like finance, engineering is vast, with numerous specialisms to explore depending on your interests and skills.
With the world transitioning towards alternative energy sources, engineering careers are in high demand and are likely to continue to be for many years. Honing your knowledge of the complex equations likely to be encountered within the energy sector begins at A-Level, where you can also begin to gain an understanding of advanced probability - a key skill when explaining the consequences of increased demand from multiple energy sources.
If engineering is a career path that interests you, consider looking at A-levels within design or a science to tailor your skills to a particular specialism. Other similar careers include aerospace engineering and working as an air traffic controller.
Acoustics
A career in acoustics ranges from working within recording studios and performing arts venues through to supporting building architects and designers to assess ways of reducing noise and sound vibrations within workplaces or flat blocks. Regardless of which area you want to explore, most employers and providers of related specialist courses require two or three A-levels, of which Maths is usually one.
Acoustics career paths vary, with training available from organisations such as the Institute of Acoustics. Some of the other pathways you could take include helping to design medical equipment and advising in legal cases. Underpinning most, if not all of these paths, is an analytical skillset developed through studying A-level Maths.
Data Scientist
As a Data Scientist, both computer science and mathematics is of equal importance. You would need to gather data from credible sources to create models and test ideas. A lot of the data you would collect would be heavily number-based, so a qualification in A-level Maths would provide the perfect head start.
A career in Data Science can be extremely rewarding, particularly if you are the one to make a significant breakthrough. With the continued growth of AI technology, it is important to have a good understanding of it and be aware of when and where to implement it.
Market Researcher
Similarly to a Data Scientist, a Market Researcher is required to collect a lot of data to help clients make informed decisions. This can range form political to social. As a Market Researcher, you would need a strong understanding of mathematics to analyse stats and figures to present quantitative and qualitive research.
It is vital that the figures you provide are indeed accurate - you play an extremely important role in potentially life-changing decisions for your clients. A-level Maths can help you develop evaluation methods which will stand you in good stead for this particular field of work.
Study A-level Maths online
A-level Maths and Further Maths are both taught at most colleges. However, studying online with a distance learning course is an option if you are returning to education or want to learn at your own pace. Speak to one of our learning advisers on 0121 630 3000 for information about studying Maths online, or enrol on our A-level Maths courses today.
FAQs
Q. What are the entry requirements for studying A-level Maths?
A. There are no specific entry requirements to study A-level Maths at Oxbridge. However, we recommend either studying or having a qualification in GCSE Maths.
Q. How difficult is the A-level Maths course?
A. A-level Maths is generally considered challenging due to its advanced topics and rigorous problem-solving requirements. It can help you develop a strong understanding of algebra, statistics, and improve your analytical & logical thinking skills.
Q. Is it too late for me to study A-level Maths?
A. Absolutely not. Our courses are generally designed for people 16 and older. We encourage those re-entering education to study A-level Maths.
Q. What is the difference between A-level Maths and A-level Further Maths?
A. A-level Maths covers core mathematical concepts, while A-level Further Maths is an additional qualification that goes deeper into both pure and applied mathematics.