A Levels for Nursing

As you make your decisions on A Levels for Nursing, think about how these subjects align with the entry requirements of the nursing programs you’re interested in and how they will equip you for the challenges of a nursing career.

How can StudySmarter help you make this choice post-GCSE Results Day? Not only are we an all-in-one learning app that offers 100% free explanations, flashcards, and AI-powered mock exams for everyone to use, we also offer advice on A-Level selection, University life and careers!

 

What A Levels Are Needed for Nursing?

Choosing the right A-level subjects is crucial if you’re aiming to study Nursing at a UK university. While specific subject requirements can vary between universities, certain subjects are generally recommended to ensure that you are well-prepared for the academic and practical demands of a nursing degree.

Below is a table categorizing A-level subjects into required, recommended, and useful categories for a degree in Nursing.

Category	Subjects
Required Subjects	– None: Most UK universities do not require specific A-level subjects for Nursing. However, having science-based subjects is often beneficial.
Recommended Subjects	– Biology: Provides a strong foundation in human anatomy, physiology, and genetics, which are essential for understanding patient care and medical conditions.
	– Chemistry: Helps in understanding the biochemical processes and the pharmacology aspects of nursing, especially in medication management.
	– Psychology: Offers insight into mental health, behavior, and patient care, crucial for holistic nursing care.
	– Sociology: Aids in understanding societal factors affecting health, which is important for community and public health nursing.
Useful (Not Necessary)	– Mathematics: Supports the development of analytical skills, particularly in drug calculations and understanding data in healthcare.
	– Health and Social Care: Provides a direct introduction to healthcare settings and patient care, offering practical insights.
	– English Literature/Language: Enhances communication skills, which are essential for interacting with patients and healthcare teams.
	– Physical Education (PE): Useful for understanding physical health, fitness, and the body’s response to illness, relevant in certain nursing fields like sports or rehabilitation nursing.
	– Business Studies: Beneficial for those interested in healthcare management, administration, or leadership roles within nursing.

Detailed Explanation on A Levels for Nursing

Required Subjects

1. None:
   • Most UK universities do not have mandatory A-level subjects for nursing degrees. However, a strong background in science is highly recommended, as nursing is a science-based profession.

Recommended Subjects

1. Biology:
   • Understanding the Human Body: Biology is fundamental for understanding the human body, its systems, and functions. This knowledge is crucial for patient assessment, treatment, and care.
   • Preparation for Clinical Practice: A solid grounding in biology helps you understand diseases, treatments, and the physiological impact of illnesses on the body.
2. Chemistry:
   • Pharmacology and Biochemistry: Chemistry provides insights into how medications interact with the body, which is critical for safe and effective patient care. It also helps in understanding the chemical processes that underpin many bodily functions.
   • Understanding Patient Care: A good grasp of chemistry is important for understanding lab results, managing medications, and comprehending various treatment protocols.
3. Psychology:
   • Mental Health and Patient Care: Psychology offers an understanding of human behavior, mental health conditions, and therapeutic communication, which are vital in nursing for providing holistic care.
   • Empathy and Patient Interaction: This subject helps develop the skills needed to support patients emotionally and mentally, an important aspect of nursing.
4. Sociology:
   • Health Inequalities and Community Care: Sociology provides insights into the social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, and environment. This is particularly relevant in public health, community nursing, and understanding patient backgrounds.

Useful (Not Necessary) Subjects

1. Mathematics:
   • Data Interpretation and Drug Calculations: Mathematics is useful for interpreting health statistics, understanding research, and performing accurate drug calculations, which are critical in nursing practice.
2. Health and Social Care:
   • Introduction to Healthcare: This subject offers a practical introduction to working in healthcare environments, providing a contextual understanding of the nursing profession.
3. English Literature/Language:
   • Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential for writing reports, charting patient progress, and effectively interacting with patients and colleagues.
4. Physical Education (PE):
   • Understanding Physical Health: PE is useful for understanding the principles of fitness, physical health, and rehabilitation, which can be beneficial in certain nursing specializations.
5. Business Studies:
   • Leadership and Management: Business Studies can be useful if you are interested in the administrative side of healthcare, such as managing a clinic or leading a healthcare team.

 

What A Level Grades for Nursing at the Top 5 Universities in UK?

To study Nursing at a top UK university, achieving good A-level grades is important, although the specific requirements can vary between institutions. Generally, nursing programs are looking for students with a strong foundation in science and a commitment to healthcare. Below is a detailed explanation of the typical grade requirements and subject preferences for nursing degrees at the top 5 universities in the UK.

Top 5 Universities for Nursing in the UK

1. University of Edinburgh
2. King’s College London (KCL)
3. University of Manchester
4. University of Glasgow
5. University of Southampton

General Entry Requirements for Nursing

University	Typical A-Level Grades	Specific Subject Requirements	Additional Requirements
University of Edinburgh	AAB to ABB	Preferred: Biology or Chemistry.	Strong personal statement and reference; relevant work experience recommended.
King’s College London (KCL)	AAB	Required: At least one science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) or Psychology.	Strong personal statement emphasizing commitment to nursing; relevant work experience recommended.
University of Manchester	ABB	Preferred: Biology, Chemistry, or Psychology.	Strong personal statement and reference; evidence of understanding nursing through work experience recommended.
University of Glasgow	AAB	Preferred: Biology or Chemistry.	Strong personal statement; relevant work experience is beneficial.
University of Southampton	AAB to BBB	Preferred: Biology or Chemistry.	Strong personal statement highlighting relevant experience and commitment to nursing.

Detailed Breakdown on A Levels for Nursing

1. University of Edinburgh:
   • Grades: AAB to ABB are typically required.
   • Subjects: While specific subjects are not strictly required, Biology or Chemistry is preferred to demonstrate your ability to handle the science-based aspects of nursing.
   • Additional Requirements: A strong personal statement, along with relevant work experience, is highly valued. Showing commitment to nursing and understanding the profession is crucial.
2. King’s College London (KCL):
   • Grades: AAB is the typical offer.
   • Subjects: At least one science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) or Psychology is required. These subjects are essential for understanding the scientific basis of nursing practice.
   • Additional Requirements: A strong personal statement that highlights your commitment to nursing and relevant work experience is important for a successful application.
3. University of Manchester:
   • Grades: ABB is typically required.
   • Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, or Psychology is preferred, as these subjects provide a solid foundation for the nursing curriculum.
   • Additional Requirements: Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their understanding of nursing through work experience and a strong personal statement.
4. University of Glasgow:
   • Grades: AAB is the typical offer.
   • Subjects: Biology or Chemistry is preferred, reflecting the importance of a strong science background for nursing.
   • Additional Requirements: A well-written personal statement and relevant work experience are beneficial in showcasing your commitment to the nursing profession.
5. University of Southampton:
   • Grades: AAB to BBB depending on the course.
   • Subjects: Biology or Chemistry is preferred, ensuring that students have the necessary scientific knowledge.
   • Additional Requirements: A strong personal statement highlighting relevant experience and a commitment to nursing is crucial for admission.

Why These Subjects Matter

1. Biology: Provides essential knowledge about the human body, its systems, and how they function, which is directly applicable to patient care in nursing.
2. Chemistry: Helps in understanding the biochemical processes and pharmacology aspects, important for medication management and understanding diseases.
3. Psychology: Offers insight into mental health, behavior, and patient care, which are vital for providing holistic care in nursing.

Why are the Required Subjects Important for Nursing?

The A-level subjects typically recommended for a degree in Nursing—Biology, Chemistry, and sometimes Psychology—are important because they provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success in nursing studies and practice. Here’s why these subjects matter:

1. Biology

• Understanding Human Anatomy and Physiology: Biology is essential for understanding how the human body works. It covers key areas such as anatomy, physiology, and genetics, which are directly relevant to nursing. A solid understanding of these topics is crucial for assessing patients, understanding their conditions, and providing effective care.
• Knowledge of Disease and Health: Biology helps students understand the mechanisms of diseases, how they affect the body, and how the body’s systems respond. This knowledge is fundamental for diagnosing and managing patient health in a nursing context.

2. Chemistry

• Biochemical Processes: Chemistry is important for understanding the biochemical processes that occur in the body, such as metabolism and respiration. This knowledge is vital for nurses, who need to understand how these processes are altered by disease and how treatments work at a molecular level.
• Pharmacology: Chemistry provides the foundation for pharmacology, which is the study of how drugs interact with the body. Nurses are responsible for administering medications and monitoring their effects, so a solid understanding of pharmacology is essential for ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

3. Psychology

• Understanding Behavior and Mental Health: Psychology helps nurses understand the mental and emotional aspects of patient care. This includes knowledge of mental health conditions, patient behavior, and therapeutic communication. Understanding these aspects is crucial for providing holistic care that addresses both the physical and mental needs of patients.
• Patient Interaction and Empathy: Psychology also helps in developing skills for effective communication, empathy, and patient interaction. These are key components of nursing, where building trust and understanding with patients is essential for effective care.

Why These Subjects Matter

1. Biology provides the scientific foundation for understanding the human body and its functions. Without this knowledge, it would be difficult for nurses to accurately assess patients, understand their health issues, and implement appropriate care plans.
2. Chemistry is important because it underpins the biochemical and pharmacological knowledge necessary for nursing. Nurses need to understand how different substances interact with the body, how medications work, and how to safely administer treatments.
3. Psychology is valuable because it offers insights into patient behavior and mental health, which are critical for providing comprehensive care. Nursing is not just about treating physical symptoms; it also involves understanding and supporting patients’ mental and emotional well-being.

 

StudySmarter Revision Guide

StudySmarter is the all-in-one-app for you. Our team of verified experts have carefully curated explanations and flashcards in many A-Level subjects to ensure everyone benefits and succeeds in their learning and exam goals!

Here’s a table of A-level subjects that are important or beneficial for pursuing a degree in Nursing at UK universities.

A-Level Subject	Why It’s Important for Nursing	StudySmarter Link
Biology	Essential for understanding human anatomy, physiology, and genetics, crucial for patient care.	Biology
Chemistry	Helps in understanding biochemical processes and pharmacology, important for medication management.	Chemistry
Psychology	Offers insight into mental health, behavior, and patient care, key for holistic nursing.	Psychology
Sociology (Recommended)	Aids in understanding societal factors affecting health, important for community and public health nursing.	Sociology
Mathematics (Useful)	Supports the development of analytical skills, particularly in drug calculations and healthcare data interpretation.	Mathematics
Health and Social Care (Useful)	Provides practical insights into healthcare settings and patient care, offering a direct introduction to the nursing profession.	Health and Social Care
English Literature/Language (Useful)	Enhances communication skills, essential for interacting with patients and healthcare teams.	English Language
Physical Education (PE) (Useful)	Useful for understanding physical health, fitness, and rehabilitation, relevant in sports or rehabilitation nursing.	Physical Education
Business Studies (Useful)	Beneficial for those interested in healthcare management, administration, or leadership roles within nursing.	Business Studies

 

Top Tips for Choosing A Levels for Nursing

Choosing the right A-level subjects is a critical decision, especially if you’re considering a degree in Nursing. Here’s some advice to help you make informed choices:

Reasons to Choose A-Level Subjects That Fit the Entry Requirements for a Nursing Degree:

1. Meeting University Requirements:
   • Essential Subjects: Subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology are often recommended or required for nursing programs because they provide a solid foundation in understanding human biology, health, and behavior.
   • Strong Foundation: Biology, in particular, is crucial as it covers topics like anatomy, physiology, and genetics, which are directly applicable to nursing. Chemistry helps in understanding the biochemical processes in the body, which is important for medication administration and understanding disease processes.
2. Developing Core Skills:
   • Scientific Understanding: Nursing is a science-based profession, and having a background in Biology and Chemistry ensures that you have the necessary knowledge to understand the medical and clinical aspects of nursing.
   • Empathy and Communication: Subjects like Psychology and Sociology help develop an understanding of patient behavior, mental health, and the social factors that affect health, which are crucial for providing holistic care.
3. Flexibility in Nursing Specializations:
   • Broad Applicability: A-level subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology are applicable across various nursing specializations, from adult nursing to mental health nursing, pediatric nursing, and beyond.
   • Preparation for Further Study: These subjects prepare you well for potential further studies or specialization within nursing, such as becoming a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse researcher.

Reasons You Might Not Choose A-Level Subjects That Fit the Entry Requirements for a Nursing Degree:

1. Personal Interest and Strengths:
   • Lack of Interest in Science: If you are not interested in or struggle with science subjects like Biology and Chemistry, you might find the nursing degree challenging and less enjoyable. It’s important to choose subjects that align with your interests and strengths to ensure success in your studies.
   • Alternative Career Paths: If you’re not fully committed to a career in nursing and are considering other options, you might prefer to choose A-levels that keep your options open for non-healthcare careers, such as in the humanities, business, or social sciences.
2. Exploring Other Fields:
   • Interest in Non-Clinical Roles: If you’re interested in healthcare but not necessarily in direct patient care, you might choose subjects that align more with roles like health administration, public health, or healthcare management. Subjects like Business Studies, Economics, or Sociology could be more relevant in this case.
   • Uncertainty About Career Goals: If you’re unsure about pursuing a career in nursing, selecting a broader range of subjects that provide flexibility for other degree choices might be a safer option. This way, you’re not locking yourself into a specific career path too early.

Top 10 Jobs You Could Do with Selected A-Levels and a Degree in Nursing

Job Title	Description
Registered Nurse (RN)	Provides direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, or community settings, managing patient treatment and care plans.
Nurse Practitioner	Advanced practice nurse who can perform many of the duties of a doctor, including diagnosing and prescribing medication.
Pediatric Nurse	Specializes in caring for children and adolescents, working in pediatric wards or clinics.
Mental Health Nurse	Focuses on supporting individuals with mental health conditions, offering therapy and managing care plans.
Midwife	Specializes in childbirth, providing care and support to women during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
Nurse Educator	Teaches and trains future nurses, working in academic or clinical settings to provide education and mentorship.
Nurse Researcher	Conducts research to improve patient care, healthcare practices, and nursing education.
Public Health Nurse	Works in the community to promote public health, prevent disease, and educate the public on health issues.
School Nurse	Provides healthcare and health education to students within a school setting, addressing both physical and mental health needs.
Hospice/Palliative Care Nurse	Specializes in providing end-of-life care, focusing on comfort, pain management, and support for patients and their families.

 

Conclusion: Choose StudySmarter for Your A-Level Journey

When selecting your A-level subjects, align your choices with your interests, strengths, and career goals. If you’re committed to pursuing a degree in Nursing, choosing Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology will provide a strong foundation and meet the entry requirements of most nursing programs. These subjects equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills for the scientific and patient care aspects of nursing. However, if you have different interests or are considering other career paths, it might be beneficial to choose A-levels that offer broader flexibility, allowing you to explore other options. Ultimately, your A-level choices should reflect your long-term aspirations, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for your chosen career path while also keeping doors open for alternative opportunities.