Mathematics

Qualification 

Award in Number and Measure (Level 2)
GCSE (Level 2)  
AS Level (Level 3)
A Level (Level 3)      

What does the course involve?

GCSE Mathematics covers data handling, number and algebra, shape and space.

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.  

Requirements 

For GCSE, a grade 3 in GCSE Mathematics is preferable, together with an internal assessment that shows you are working at the appropriate level.

For AS and A Level, GCSE Mathematics at grade 7 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. If you have a grade 6 at GCSE and want to study AS/A Level Mathematics you will be advised on an individual basis. 

Teaching methods
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.  

Assessment methods
Level 2 qualifications are 100% exam; GCSE is 100% exam (one non calculator and two calculator papers); AS is 100% exam (one pure and mechanics, one pure and statistics); A Level is 100% exam (one pure and mechanics, one pure and statistics and one pure and comprehension).       

Duration
One year for GCSE or other Level 2 courses and 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.       

Where will it take me?

A GCSE qualification is a gateway to employment and to further academic study. Most universities will insist on a grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics.

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.