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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to study Statistics as a separate subject or as part of my Mathematics qualifications?

Most of our students have studied some probability or statistics as part of their mathematics A-level, but this is not a requirement. Our first year undergraduate statistics courses do not assume any prior knowledge of probability or statistics.

Are Mathematics and Further Mathematics considered to be two different A-Level subjects?

Yes.

Do I need to take A-level Economics in order to study Economics and Statistics, SEF or SEL?

No prior knowledge of economics is required for any of these degree programmes. Of course, previous study in economics will be helpful in your first year of study.

I would like to take SEL (Statistics, Economics and a Language). Does my chosen language have to be one that I have previously studied, or one that I have not previously studied?

It does not matter whether your chosen language is one you have studied before or not. The starting level of the language is flexible and will be tailored to your prior knowledge. Click here for more information about the different levels available.

When I start my degree I will have an A-level in one of the languages available. Is it worth me continuing with this as part of my SEL (Statistics, Economics and a Language) degree?

Yes. We offer advanced language courses covering Business, Current Affairs and Culture at a high, in-depth linguistic level. These courses require a high A-level grade in the language concerned, or equivalent. At an even more advanced level, we offer courses focusing on the use of the language for Professional or Academic Purposes, or on Translation Skills.
You may also be able to take optional courses organised by the linguistic department concerned (subject to timetabling constraints and departmental approval). It may also be possible to study two languages.

Is A-level General Studies accepted?

General Studies A-level is not acceptable as one of the three A-levels required of candidates. We will however accept a pass in General Studies at A-level as an alternative to the pass in a fourth AS-level subject that we are seeking from candidates. 
Note: General Studies at AS-level is not acceptable as the fourth AS-level subject.

Is A-level Critical Thinking accepted?

Critical Thinking A-level is not acceptable as one of the three A-levels required of candidates. We will however accept a pass in Critical Thinking at A-level as an alternative to the pass in a fourth AS-level subject that we are seeking from candidates. 
Note: Critical Thinking at AS-level is not acceptable as the fourth AS-level subject.

Are alternatives to a fourth AS-level acceptable?

Yes. In asking for a fourth AS-level, UCL was signalling its support for a broadening of the post-16 curriculum. UCL will be flexible in considering other qualifications. Alternatives that have been indicated to date as acceptable include a GCSE in a foreign language such as Japanese (studied from scratch concurrent with A-levels); an IB subject at Standard Level; a Scottish Higher. A GCSE in a subject that is an established part of the curriculum (e.g. Economics) will not normally be acceptable, even if this is taken at the same time as A-levels. If no fourth AS-level or alternative is offered, applicants should explain why this is the case; we may in such circumstances make an offer requiring higher A-level grades.

Where can I obtain additional information?

To receive a copy of the UCL Undergraduate Prospectus, please contact the Study Information Centre or see the UCL prospectus pages.

For enquiries concerning your application to the Department of Statistical Science, please email ugadmissions@stats.ucl.ac.uk

Page last modified on 16 nov 10 15:14