What Subjects?

The choice of courses at school, college and university has never been greater, or more confusing.

From GCSE or Standard Grade to postgraduate qualifications the choices young people are presented with can be overwhelming.

In England and Wales, science GCSE courses comprise a 'core' science course and then allow a student to opt to do a second GCSE in either 'additional science' or 'additional applied science'. A student who wants to continue to study A levels in chemistry, physics or biology should probably opt for the former; whereas a studnet who enjoys learning science through a 'hands on' approach, and who might do an Applied Science A level, would probably suit the 'additional applied' route. A single 'core' science GCSE is normally considered insufficient preparation for A levels in science.

From September 2008 students achieving Level 6 or higher at the end of Key Stage 3 can opt to study three separate science GCSEs - in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This is believed to prepare students better for GCE A levels in science subjects.

There is less choice in Scottish schools; at lease one science has to be studied at Standard Grade. However more than one science should be taken if a student plans to study any science subjects at Higher level. 

For those going on to higher education, the choice of first degree courses is made, usually, on the basis of how interesting the course appears to be rather than on where it might lead. Higher Education Institutions are funded on the numbers of students they attract, hence they are also interested in offering the courses which will appeal to students. This has lead to a plethora of undergraduate degrees in subjects that sound interesting, and in joint degrees where science subjects are linked with business and other subjects. Whilst these provide an interesting student experience, and can lead to interesting jobs, they are not always the best preparation for a student interested in using their degree in a research and development or manufacturing environment.

Undergraduate degrees tend to offer a substantial element of choice in the modules that can be taken. Students often select their modules without regard to a future career, this may result in them avoiding modules where essential skills are taught. Maths is an important component of many science degrees and students opting for 'harder' modules with mathematical components will often be more employable in science roles.