Non preferred subjects

[IWarr]

Is there a list of subjects unis don't hold in high regard?

Also in regarding to A level subject combos do you suggest 2 or 3 A level subjects that are linked to the ultimate degree choice?

Depends on the university! General studies (does it still exist?) or critical thinking are often ignored.

Whether combinations should include subject specific ones again depends on target degree. Physics degree will require maths and physics. Media studies degree - any combination would usually be fine.

Like for a physics degree would the university expect maths, physics and for the 3rd subject to be STEM related? Would they in theory be put off by like PE?

Probably not an issue if the third is unrelated although there maybe one or two exceptions. But check uni websites.

@IWarr There are a number that do not accept 2+ from a 'non-preferred' list. It will be on the course page or the dept page.
A lot don't accept Gen Studies and Critical Thinking.

E.g. Leeds Law only accepts one from DT, PE, Music, Art and about 15 others.
My son is doing Maths, History and Drama, so still would meet that criteria.

I would go to the dept websites of each university for specific answers on this question, partly because it depends on the institution and partly because it is a moveable feast.

When my Dh went to Oxford, he had A levels in English lit, Physics and Math. He could have chosen any of those subjects (at that time) as his focus, or other subjects, like Religion etc. as well.

It used to be that Geography and Psychology at degree level were considered softer options, but this has changed a lot and for Psychology at least, it is now one of the most competitive courses to get a place on.

It really does depend on the specific course. The most selective physics courses might be very unlikely to give an offer unless the applicant had FM as well as maths and physics. Some other courses might want 2 sciences plus maths. But other physics courses would be ok with any third subject.
In general the STEM subjects are likely to have tighter requirements because the students need to have the specific A level knowledge to build on whereas some other degrees need skills (eg essay writing) but not specific content.

It’s often the case that the third can be something not related to the degree choice….but it still being a strongly regarded course, helps for competitive unis.

It all depends where you’re thinking of applying.
Some subjects will need Maths. Too places for subjects with significant maths content will expect FM.
Top unis like Oxbridge wouldn’t be turned off by a 3rd subject being Music or Art for example, even if not relevant to agree choice, if other 2 are solid and relevant subjects.

Many less competitive unis will accept everything equally - so lots of ‘studies’ A Levels and BTecs will be fine.

If going for higher ranking and competitive courses, although ‘facilitating’ subjects have officially gone, a good starting point for those wanting to do standard academic subject degrees, is to include 2 standard academic subjects to show academic rigour. Less fretting about the 3rd is needed.

But if particular careers are in focus such as Med or numerical based things, be sure to include the subject so they will require such as Chem or Maths. It isn’t just about doing what you like and all subjects being equal. You don’t want to close doors.

As @titchy says - it depends on the university.

Your best place to research your question is the UCAS site - have a look at which universities accept which A Levels for which degrees.

But a leading university for a Physics degree is unlikely to be interested in PE as a 3rd A Level. The applicant is unlikely to be competitive in the pool of applicants.

However, you really need to look at each university's requirements and advice. University websites are set up to advise potential applicants, and most are pretty clear about preferred A Levels.

The UCAS website will be your friend here.

From a horse's mouth...

Which A-level subjects should I choose?
Published 29/07/2011 10.26 AM | Updated 14/03/2023 08.38 PM
Depending on your chosen course, there may be certain subject requirements. Some subjects are essential, some are recommended, and others are considered helpful to students in providing background knowledge for their degree course.

You can see an overview for all courses on our admissions requirements table, or check on the 'admissions requirements' tab of your chosen course page. As long as any subject requirements have been met, any other subjects at A-level are acceptable, subject to the following exceptions:
General Studies (for all courses)
Critical Thinking and Thinking Skills (for Biomedical Sciences and Medicine)
Global Perspectives and Research (for any course)
Cambridge Assessment International Education A-levels in either Global Perspectives or Research and Thinking Skills

Oxford’s methods of teaching and learning are strongly academic. As well as tutorials and lectures, students are required to do a great deal of personal studying, reading and preparing essays. We therefore recommend that you also consider which A-levels would best prepare you for this style of learning, and best demonstrate your academic ability.

Some courses don’t have any subject requirements and, in this situation, we generally recommend that students take those subjects which they enjoy the most and are most likely to achieve top grades.