Choosing A-Levels for Medical School: Should You Take Psychology or Maths?

Preparing for medical school can be a daunting task, especially when deciding which A-level subjects to take. You're considering whether to take psychology or maths, and are curious about how these choices will impact your future medical studies. With the guidance of current and experienced medical students, as well as insights from academic entries, you can make an informed decision that best suits your academic strengths and aspirations.

Recommendations Based on Current Cohort Experiences

Dr. Jane Doe: As a current medical student, my advice is to prioritize taking A-level biology. Most of the students in my cohort have taken biology, and the curriculum is designed with a solid foundation in A-level biology. Without it, you may face more challenges in medical school and might need extra assistance. It's important to consider this when deciding between psychology and further maths.

Further Maths vs. Additional A-Level Subjects

Further maths, while not required, can be a challenging subject. Many medical schools do not require it, and taking it could potentially hinder your progress in medical school. If you're struggling in maths or it's not your favorite subject, it might be better to choose an additional A-level subject that you enjoy, such as psychology or further maths. Focus on subjects that align with your strengths and interests to set a strong foundation for your studies.

Consulting A-Level Entry Requirements

Medical School Entry Requirements: It's crucial to review the entry requirements of various medical schools. Almost all UK medical schools accept chemistry, biology, and one of either psychology or mathematics. Based on this, both psychology and mathematics are equally acceptable choices.

My Advice: Take the subject that you excel in. Your choice of A-level subjects will be a distant memory seven years from now, so your decision should be based on what you find easiest and most enjoyable. This is especially important as your primary focus will shift towards medical studies and research.

Reflections on Subject Choices

A-Levels and Future Studies: Many students find that psychology is useful for medical school because it helps enhance understanding of human behavior and the mind. However, psychology isn't crucial at your current stage but is essential in pre-med programs. Remember, some medical schools may require you to take psychology during your pre-med studies.

Studying A-Patterns Wisely

Planning Ahead: Consider taking biology, further maths, and psychology in the same term, and then take chemistry and physics in the next two terms. This staggered approach can help manage workload and ensure you cover all required maths courses leading up to and including calculus, such as algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus.

Best of Luck: Preparing for medical school is a significant commitment, but with proper planning and the right choices, you can set yourself up for success. If you need further assistance, feel free to reach out to experienced medical students or academic advisors. Best of luck on your medical school journey!