A Levels for Economics Degrees

[PrincessKateofWales]

Quick one and I'm sure it's been done - does anyone have any views on Maths A-level versus Statistics A-Level for an Economics degree? DC is now leaning on Economics for a degree choice but thinks he needs a Maths based A-level but would prefer Statistics. His other A-Level choices are Economics plus two traditional essay subjects.

I'm checking on the relevant university websites but any insights and experience from academics, admissions and parents would be much appreciated.

Maths would be better, and FM if he's good enough, and wants to aim for the top degree courses.

Most Russell group universities require an A at A level maths. Statistics could compliment an A level Maths choice?

Yes @Ellmau is right. Maths and Further Maths for most of the Russell Group and keeping most options open

Maths. Many (but not all) require maths, not having it will reduce choices. Even at unis that don’t require maths, not having it will reduce module choice. Statistics only helpful if as well as maths.

I didn't know an individual statistics A-level is a thing? I know it's there for GCSE and there's statistics in a level maths and further maths..

The best is Maths FM Economics + something sensible. Like history, physics or geography.

Don't have PE as a 4th

Thanks for the response.

Many require A level maths. If he does FM then take the stats option. Economics very useful. Essay subject very useful like politics or history.

Very few RG require further maths for economics. Cambridge does and probably also LSE.

He would be limiting himself without maths.

Maths, econ, plus history or geography would be good.

Don’t even think of it without a high grade a maths A level.
Voice of bitter experience.

Hi, OP -

Yes, Maths! And FM wouldn’t hurt if DS is up for it. Amongst the top 10 Economics programmes in the Complete University Guide, 7 require a minimum of Grade A in A level Maths.

The highest ranking exception is St Andrews, where Economics is offered by the Business School and where Y1 gives a good general education anyway. The other two are Nottingham, where Maths is recommended, and Leeds which is No 10. A number of other Economics units also require Maths. The top programmes quite like FM and everyone is impressed by it, if DS is highly mathematical. He could opt for as much Statistics as possible.

Economics itself is obviously a fine A level but FWIW no top programme requires it. Maths all the way

In a post last year someone mentioned an S level or half A for Statistics that is available. If this is possible would it be a good fit.