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Three more modules are studied. Core 3 and Core 4 build upon the ideas already studied in Core 1 and Core 2. However there are several new topics which do not rely on the previous modules. These include Numerical Methods, Parametric Equations and Vectors.

The third module is Mechanics 1, another applied mathematics module. Mechanics deals with the action of forces on objects. It is therefore concerned with many everyday situations, e.g. the motion of cars, the flight of a cricket ball through the air, the stresses in bridges, the motion of the earth around the sun. Such problems have to be simplified or modelled to make them capable of solution using relatively simple mathematics. The study of one or more of the Mechanics units will enable you to use the mathematical techniques which you learn in the Core units to help you to produce solutions to these problems. Many of the ideas you will meet in the course form an almost essential introduction to such important modern fields of study such as cybernetics, robotics, bio-mechanics and sports science, as well as the more traditional areas of engineering and physics.

Those who wish to study A level mathematics in Year 13 should have passed (or be in the process of passing) the three modules of AS level mathematics.

As for AS level mathematics each of the three modules is assessed by a one and a half hour written examination. Students may re-sit an examination to try to improve their mark. There is no coursework element.

This course offers insight into new mathematic's topics and the opportunity to build on the knowledge you have from AS level Mathematics.

Advanced GCE mathematics is a much sought-after qualification for entry to a wide variety of full-time courses in higher education. There are also many areas of employment that see a Mathematics Advanced GCE as an important qualification and it is often a requirement for the vocational qualifications related to these areas.

Higher Education courses or careers that either require Advanced GCE mathematics or are strongly related include:

economics
medicine
architecture
engineering
accountancy
teaching
psychology
physics
computing
information and communication technology.

If you wanted to continue your study of mathematics after Advanced GCE you could follow a course in mathematics at degree level or even continue further as a postgraduate and get involved in mathematical research.

People entering today’s most lucrative industries such as IT, banking and the stock market need to be confident using mathematics on a daily basis. To be sure of this, many employers still look for a traditional mathematics A-level qualification. Researchers at the London School of Economics have recently found that people who have studied mathematics can expect to earn up to 11% more than their colleagues, even in the same job!

Even in areas where pure mathematics isn’t required, other mathematics skills learned at AS and A level, such as logical thinking, problem solving and statistical analysis, are often very desirable in the workplace. Mathematics is the new lingua franca of commerce, business and even journalism.