Level 3 – Core Maths
Core Maths
- Recommended Entry Requirements 5 GCSEs at level 5 or above including 5 in Maths GCSE
- Type of Qualification Level 3 (AS equivalent)
- Exam Board AQA
What you'll study
This is a relatively new course, which helps to develop students' mathematical skills and thinking. It covers the Maths that supports courses such as A-level Psychology, Sciences and Geography as well as technical and vocational qualifications. It is half an A-level, studied over two years with two exam papers at the end of year 13. Mathematical studies carries 20 UCAS points and is graded A to E.
Core Maths enables students to develop further mathematical understanding and skills in the application of mathematics to authentic problems, whilst providing a sound basis for the general mathematical demands that students will face at university and within employment across a broad range of academic, professional, and technical fields.
Paper One – Mathematical Studies
Paper Two – Statistical Techniques
What you'll love
The course is valuable for all students progressing to university but particularly those progressing to higher education courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element such as sciences, psychology, geography, business and management.
Core Maths is looked upon favourably by many universities when they are considering applications for degree study. They recognise the transferable skills and knowledge that students gain through studying Core Maths. It offers valuable preparation for the quantitative skills students will need for subjects for which AS/A Mathematics is not required such as psychology, geography, business-related courses, sports and social sciences, and the life sciences.
Why take it?
Some universities have shown their recognition for Core Maths by making alternative offers for students who have taken Core Maths, alongside other qualifications, reducing the grades required for entry to some of their degree courses.
A number of university courses, such as medicine and teaching, require applicants to take an additional admissions test with some mathematical content. Studying Core Maths will help students maintain their mathematical skills and help them with these tests.
Click on the documents below to see the full specification and examples of both papers (At St Peter’s we study option 2A).
