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Mathematics A Level

Whether it be in the sciences, business, sport or medicine, by studying a mathematics course at Queen Mary’s College, you will enjoy studying a mathematics course for its own sake and come to appreciate its power and diversity. In order to solve problems in the real world, we often begin by translating the situation into mathematical equations to give us a clearer appreciation of the underlying aspects of the problem. We then solve the problem using mathematics and apply our findings to make predictions of what will happen in different circumstances. Where else can you solve an infinite number of problems in one go?

Queen Mary’s College offers various Mathematics courses that are as follows: Mathematics A Level, Double Mathematics A Level, Further Mathematics (AS Level) and Core Mathematics (AS Level).

Maths A Level At QMC

Which Maths Course is right for me?

Here is a list of some of the career pathways that studying Mathematics at QMC can lead to, along with a guide to courses that are also a good fit:

Architecture:
Mathematics, Further Maths, Art, Physics

Engineering:
Mathematics, Further Maths, Physics, Computing, Electronics, Chemistry, Biology

Mathematics/Computer Science:
Mathematics, Further Maths, Physics, Computer Science

Environmental Science:
Mathematics, Statistics, Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science

Economics:
Mathematics, Further Maths, Statistics, Economics, Politics, History, Geography, Sociology, Psychology, Core Maths

Medicine/Biomed/Pharmacy:
Biology, Mathematics, Statistics, Chemistry, Core Maths

Science:
Mathematics, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computing, Electronics, Statistics

Business:
Business, Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Geography, Psychology, PE, Media, IT

Finance/Accountancy:
Mathematics, Core Maths, Statistics, Business, Economics

Mathematics A Level

The two-year Mathematics A Level course emphasises analytical and problem-solving skills. Covering algebra, graphs, functions, trigonometry, calculus, and practical applications in statistics and mechanics, the course enhances logical thinking skills in analysing data. This course is essential for Physics A Level and desirable to study alongside other sciences. Exams will assess your problem-solving skills at the end of two years.

Double Mathematics A Level (incorporating A Level Maths and A Level Further Maths)

Double Mathematics includes two A Levels, that is, Mathematics and Further Mathematics. It is recommended that this course be taken as part of a four A Level programme. As with the single Mathematics A level, the course comprises pure and applied maths and is especially suitable for those who wish to go on to study a maths-related course at university, such as Economics, Finance, or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics). The course is fast-paced and highly rewarding for those who like a challenge.

Further Maths (AS Level only)

The Further Maths AS Level, designed for second-year students pursuing three A levels, offers an intensive exploration of advanced mathematical concepts. Covering topics like Complex Numbers, Matrices, and applied mathematics principles, it not only enhances your mathematical skills but also provides additional UCAS points for university applications. This course is particularly valuable for science-related subjects and serves as a foundation for degrees in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, and Computer Science.

Core Mathematics (AS Level only)

Core Maths is a practical problem-solving course that builds on GCSE skills, particularly beneficial for science students and those studying A levels involving data analysis. Many A levels now include a greater emphasis on mathematical skills and understanding statistical calculations.

Core Maths aims to develop a clearer understanding of statistical measures, exploring topics including data analysis, personal finance and mathematical modelling to interpret information from real-world contexts.

The course will sit alongside your A levels, boosting your credentials and giving you additional UCAS points. It is a highly valued qualification, recognised by universities and employers, equivalent to 40% of a full A level. Taking this course will demonstrate an ability to manage a fuller programme of study than most A level students and a mathematical proficiency beyond GCSE. Please note that this is only available to students not taking Mathematics A Level.

Where can this course take me?

Taking an A Level in any one of the Mathematics courses is highly-valued and can lead to many different careers and courses of study. All STEM and medical degree courses require Mathematics. A maths qualification will boost your earning power. Many of the top jobs require maths, from game design to architecture, from accountancy to intelligence services.

Will Chave

Studying a Mathematics course develops all of the skills that are in high demand among graduates and school-leavers. Here are some of the skills that you will acquire and develop:

Problem solving – you will learn to interpret a question and apply appropriate techniques to obtain an answer. That’s what makes maths one of the most rewarding subjects to study!
Communication – Mathematics is a language. You will learn to express yourself succinctly with precision, using correct terminology. There is no room for ambiguity in mathematics!
Teamwork – Working on your own will develop your powers of concentration; however, much of the learning is done collaboratively, discussing problems and pooling ideas to find a way through to an answer.
Analysis – A key skill in maths is to break problems down and to make sense of a complex situation by analysing it in a piecemeal fashion. You will learn to interpret technical information, presented in tables, charts, graphs and diagrams…not to mention algebra!
Resilience – Staying power is essential if you are going to solve a tricky problem. You’ll learn not to give up, but to keep trying different approaches to find a way through.
Logical reasoning – you will be able to argue a case logically and to confirm results using mathematical proof. You’ll see how to draw general conclusions from evidence and understand the implications of a general principle in particular circumstances.
Independence – You will learn to be self-reliant and work things out for yourself.
Organisation – You’ll have to be disciplined; you’ll learn to manage your workload, selecting the resources you need and meeting deadlines, practising skills and getting help when you need it.

Extra-curricular enrichment opportunities

As a maths student, you can take part in competitions, workshops, and events designed to challenge your thinking and showcase the real-world applications of mathematics. Students on the Mathematics A Level and Double Mathematics A Level courses regularly compete in prestigious events such as the UK Senior Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad, and the Rotary Club Technology Challenge.

You’ll also have the chance to attend inspiring trips and lectures, including Maths in Action and talks from visiting speakers who highlight exciting mathematical careers. For those aiming for university entrance exams such as STEP, MAT, or TMUA, the Maths Department provides dedicated support and preparation sessions to help you succeed.

To complement your studies, QMC also offers a wide range of fun and skill-building enrichment activities, including: