Level 3 Mathematics

Qualifications

AS Level (Level 3)

A Level (Level 3)

Duration

One year for AS Level, two years for A Level. The AS and A Level are separate qualifications but are taught alongside each other for the first year. This gives AS students the opportunity to switch to the full A Level if they are ready.

Entry requirements 

GCSE Mathematics at grade 6 or above is normally required, together with four other GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4 or above; these should include English Language. There will also be an internal assessment to ensure that you are working at the appropriate level.

What does the course involve?

AS and A Level Mathematics are traditional mathematics courses which builds on your understanding of higher tier GCSE concepts.

You will study both Pure and Applied Mathematics including Mechanics and Statistics. Pure Mathematics covers topics such as Algebra and Geometry; Applied Mathematics explores how mathematics can be used to solve real-world problems. More information about the OCR Mathematics B (MEI) qualifications can be found here.

How you’ll learn

Students are taught in small groups, but are expected to work independently where appropriate. There is a mixture of practical, problem-solving and mathematical modelling tasks. A real strength of this course is the way it teaches you skills in working with tactile diagrams and charts.

How you’ll be assessed

AS is 100% examination (one Pure and Mechanics, one Pure and Statistics); A Level is 100% examination (one Pure and Mechanics, one Pure and Statistics and one Pure and comprehension).

Where will it take me?

After studying A Level Mathematics, most students go on to Higher Education. Mathematics is often considered as the ‘Queen of the Sciences’ and is highly favoured by universities, particularly in relation to any science-based subject; many top universities also require it for degrees in Computing and IT.

There are many openings for mathematicians in industry and services. Potential career paths include: Actuarial Science, Business Analyst, Software Engineer, Technology Analyst, Information Engineer, Speech Technology Researcher and Data Scientist.