FURTHER MATHEMATICS
This course will broaden and deepen your mathematical knowledge and skills. It is particularly useful if you’re intending to take a degree course or apprenticeship involving higher level maths, such as a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
If you enjoy mathematics, this course will provide a challenge and a chance to explore new and/or more sophisticated mathematical concepts.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Five GCSEs Grade 4-9 (including Maths, English Language and English Literature). Extra requirements: Grade 8 in GCSE Maths. Further Mathematics can only be chosen alongside A Level Mathematics.
ASSESSMENT:
3 x exams (2 x pure maths topics; 1 x applied topics)
SPECIFICATION:
Edexcel
LENGTH:
2 Years
HOW YOU’LL STUDY
All Further Mathematics courses have the same pure maths content, which makes up 50% of the A Level. Topic areas include: complex numbers, which allow the solution of a range of equations, by introducing ‘imaginary’ numbers; matrices, which consist of grids of numbers that can be used to represent transformations and are used to solve simultaneous equations; polar coordinates; differential equations; and hyperbolic functions.
Each of these build on earlier topics and develop your understanding of the ways in which mathematical topics are interconnected. You will also study further applications of mathematics in mechanics, statistics and decision mathematics.
CAREERS AND DESTINATIONS
A Level Further Mathematics is particularly beneficial for students considering taking a mathematically demanding degree or apprenticeship programme. Many leading universities ask for it in their entry requirements for mathematics degrees. Students who have studied it often find the transition to university easier. Around a third of Mathematics BSc degree courses mention it in their entry requirements, including it in their A Level offers or encouraging students to take it if possible. This proportion is much higher for Russell Group universities.