"Logic-based" A-levels (other than Maths)

[Katiestrives]

My daughter is looking at university requirements. One of the Oxbridge colleges she may apply to states that their preferred subjects include, ideally, an essay-based A-level and a logic-based one (they give the example of Maths). She is studying History, Politics and French. I think the answer then is no - she is not doing a logic-based A-level. Am I right? If so, I guess she will knock that College off her shortlist!

Philosophy? Comp Sci?

If she’s already doing those, then no, not particularly logic based

Not sure what would count as “logic based” (maths? Calculator type subjects?) but I’m pretty sure any of the colleges would have a range of people who’ve done a range of combinations. Is this a particular college for a particular subject, or just one college trying to make sure they appeal to all rounders as well as “maths physics chemistry” and “English history politics”

I tend to regard languages as logic based - because of the grammar and the rules that make a language work. Whether the college will is another matter. Why not just ask the college?

If they specifically ask for logic based I'd just apply to a different college.

If she's looking at something like PPE, the first year economics has a lot of maths and a logic type brain helps, according to ds.

Sorry to drip feed: it's for law at Magdalene, Cambridge.

This

Her A Levels are fine for law. You do need a logical mind, but you certainly don't need maths.

I'd also just ask them.

Yes, ask them. Agree languages could possibly count.

I am a former admissions tutor. @Jegersur @Frostynight and @Talipesmum have provided the only logical answer: ask them!

Email from your DD herself is much the best approach. The admissions team will route it to the correct person and we deeply appreciate not being interrupted st random times by phone. Any substantive replies must be backed up in writing anyway. And an approach from the applicant always leaves the best impression

French is logical enough for Law but History and Politics together might be viewed as on the soft side in terms of volume and breadth.

I would move sideways from Magdalene and look for a college which doesn't make any mention of specific A levels in the hope that they're less focussed on them than Magdalene clearly is.

Obviously you would have to ask Magdalene about the specific query. Interesting to note the Faculty advice is:
"While we don't ask for any specific subjects to apply to Law, we would recommend certain subjects for a strong application:

• English (language or literature)
• History
• Languages (ancient or modern) "

And they go on to say that "most" had studied at least one of the above and "the rest had usually" studied one of a whole long list of alternatives. I would agree with PP that avoiding any College where there is any element of doubt about the suitability of your A Levels would be wise. Clearly if they come back and say 'Languages 100% tick the logical box' then that's another matter.

Languages would fill both those criteria.

I’d argue that languages was logic based.

Update: contacted the college who advised that they do not consider French to be a logic-based A-level. Never mind, still plenty of colleges to apply to!

Did your DD get a 9 for Maths at GCSE?

@Karolinska yes she did

That’s helpful.