What Can My A-Levels Get Me?

A Levels are among the most significant qualifications that somebody may get. Employers and educators in the UK and overseas regard them as an established and recognized degree. They will provide you with access to undergraduate university degrees as well as boost your work prospects and earning potential.  

If you knew where you intended your education or job to take you from a young age, you’re A- Level choices likely reflected that. However, it's also possible that you have yet to uncover your passion or area of interest. Or perhaps you've discovered a job path you'd like to pursue but aren't sure how. This may leave you wondering what you can do with your A-Levels.

While going from A Levels to university is widespread, it is not the sole path to a prosperous career.  

A Level study gives you the knowledge and skills you need to thrive both academically and professionally. Obtaining these credentials can open doors to a variety of exciting occupations that do not usually necessitate undergraduate studies. So, if you recently or several years ago received your A Level results and are unsure what to do next, here are some possibilities to explore.

Go onto Higher Education

The obvious choice but it is so for a reason. There are many careers that can only be accessed by studying at the undergraduate level. Jobs in Medicine, Nursing and Dentistry, for instance, require you to study a related degree as it provides you with the essential knowledge needed to carry those roles out correctly and safely. Other roles and senior positions are dependent on postgraduate qualifications such as a masters or PhD.

While there are focused paths through higher education that lead to specific careers, there are others that offer more flexibility. A degree in Business, English and Computer Science, for example, provides in-depth knowledge that can be applied to many professions and industries. Allowing you more options to explore once you graduate.

If you decide that university is the best next step for you, it’s important you choose a subject you enjoy and will help you reach your goal. If you aren’t sure what that is, consider accessing career advice services.

If you like a particular subject, you can either browse UCAS’ course directory or contact specific universities directly and request a prospectus. Exploring job sites and graduate career options can also give you an idea of what you may want to do.

Whichever subject you decide on, you will need to research it to see if you meet the entry requirements. Entry requirements can also vary between universities, so take that into consideration when applying.

Seek Employment

Many people use their A Level qualifications to go straight into the workforce.

There are a great number of careers you can explore that don’t require degrees. Some may ask for related A Level subjects. Though, since A Level studies equip you with essential skills such as analyzing information, critical thinking, constructing and presenting evidenced points of view and effective communication, many will take non-related subjects into account.

Again, it is wise to research this so as to avoid disappointment. Explore the job profiles, industries, and employers offering the roles that interest you. A few examples of potential roles you could explore are:

Marketing Assistant - Apprentice roles are offered which typically require A Levels in Business Studies or similar. However, some companies are willing to train people with no experience.  

Recruitment – Again Business A Levels or equivalent qualifications are preferred, though entry and progression in recruitment is often down to the individual’s tenacity and drive to meet targets.

IT – GCSEs, A Levels and a good working knowledge of Microsoft and related software can help you start work within IT. Many companies provide continued training to stay up to date with the latest developments so there are opportunities to develop and progress.

Accounting - Good GCSEs and A Levels can help you start a career in accounting, especially those in Maths, Statistics or Business. There are many opportunities to progress from an Accounts Trainee. QBE Accountants are those Qualified by Experience, meaning they have gained their level of expertise on the job without taking any formal qualifications. You can also study AAT exams without having a degree, which can significantly accelerate your progression.  

Higher Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are still an option for those with A Levels. As they come in different levels, those with A Levels or Level 3 vocational qualifications such as an NVQ can qualify for Higher Apprenticeships.

They are an excellent option for those who are reluctant to choose between a job or a degree. In doing a Higher Apprenticeship, you receive training that results in an industry-recognized qualification while earning a wage and gaining work experience. Some apprenticeships provide you with a full degree-level qualification.

So, if you have A Levels and don’t like the idea of full-time study at university, you can take a more hands-on approach to your next qualification with a Higher Apprenticeship. There are also no degree fees to pay, so you can continue to learn without acquiring student debt.

Retrain in Something Else

You may have taken an A Level in a subject you felt was right at the time only to find your interests or career ambitions have changed.

Or you may have already begun a career but now want to change path. Don’t look at this as a failure or negative, because it isn’t. You have still gained valuable skills, experience and knowledge that you can now apply in a different area.

Through your studies or subsequent role, you may have discovered an interest in a new – potentially unrelated – subject area. For instance, you may study science and through your essays realize a love for writing which leads you to pursue a career in journalism.

If you realize your desired career requires different knowledge and skills, you can simply go back into education to realign your qualifications with your goals. Studying and working within one avenue before deciding to retrain in another you thoroughly enjoy, can give you a new appreciation for learning. It is also a chance to indulge your interests and re-boot your career.

Finally, it can put you in a unique position which can enable you to carve a niche in your career. Someone with qualifications in both Science and Journalism for instance could specialize in science writing or healthcare advertising.

Should you be looking to retrain in a particular avenue, you could explore our range of Access to Higher Education Diplomas. These provide education in a specific area, allowing you to gain detailed knowledge and understanding of that profession. So, you can qualify and enter the job market or go onto higher education quicker than you would by taking A Levels that relate to your new subject area.

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