Possible degrees

1. Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    Combining Philosophy, Politics, and Economics gives you a thorough grounding in critical thinking, analytical skills, and global socio-economic dynamics, all of which are highly sought after in consulting and business strategy.

    • Philosophy sharpens your logical reasoning and problem-solving.

    • Politics provides insight into government systems, policy and global relations.

    • Economics (though not directly tied to your A-Level subjects) will complement your consulting career with a deep understanding of market forces, competition, and business cycles.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Philosophy and Theology, Government & Politics, Geography

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – PPE

    • Cambridge University – HSPS (Human, Social, and Political Sciences), with Politics as a specialism

    • London School of Economics (LSE) – PPE

    • UCL – Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

    • Warwick University – PPE

  • Course Structure:
    In your first year, you'll cover foundational modules in philosophical ethics, microeconomics, and political theory. Later years will delve into more specialized topics such as global political economy, business ethics, international politics, and economic theory. There's an emphasis on research and critical analysis.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Consulting (Strategy Consultant, Management Consultant)

    • Political Advisor

    • Policy Analyst

    • Business Analyst

    • Economic Researcher

    • Journalism (Political or Business Reporting)

    • Diplomatic Service


2. Politics and International Relations (IR)

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    This degree is perfect for anyone interested in global politics, diplomacy, and international policy. Your background in Government & Politics and Geography positions you well for understanding international political structures and global dynamics.

    • Politics provides deep knowledge of domestic governance and public policy.

    • International Relations explores diplomacy, international security, and global conflict.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Government & Politics, Geography, Classical Civilization

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – PPE or Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE)

    • Cambridge University – Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS)

    • LSE – Government

    • UCL – Politics and International Relations

    • King’s College London – Politics and International Relations

  • Course Structure:
    First-year modules might include Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations Theory. As you progress, you could focus on international law, foreign policy analysis, global political economy, or security studies.
    This degree is incredibly relevant for political consulting, policy analysis, or working in international NGOs.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Political Consultant

    • Diplomatic Service

    • Foreign Affairs

    • International Organizations (UN, NATO, World Bank)

    • Public Policy Think Tanks

    • Consulting Firms (Global Market Strategy, Political Risk Analysis)

    • Journalism (Political Correspondent)


3. Law

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    Law remains one of the most prestigious degrees, especially if you are interested in corporate law, public policy, or legal consulting. Your A-Level in Government & Politics is directly applicable here, as it provides foundational knowledge of legal systems and governance.

    • Philosophy helps refine your analytical skills and ethical reasoning, both essential in legal professions.

    • Psychology is beneficial for understanding human behavior, which is crucial in fields like criminal law or family law.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Philosophy and Theology, Psychology, Government & Politics

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Law

    • Cambridge University – Law

    • LSE – Law

    • UCL – Law

    • King’s College London – Law

  • Course Structure:
    A Law degree involves studying core subjects like contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, tort law, and EU law. The first year often covers foundational topics in legal theory and legal research, with a focus on applying theory to real-world situations. Specializations emerge in later years, such as corporate law, family law, or international law.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Corporate Lawyer

    • Public Sector (Policy Advisor, Government Legal Service)

    • Legal Consultant

    • In-House Legal Counsel

    • Judiciary (e.g., barrister, solicitor, judge)

    • Regulatory Bodies (e.g., financial regulation, compliance)


4. Geography (with Politics or Environment Focus)

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    Geography is an ideal choice for understanding the physical and human aspects of the world, particularly related to urban planning, sustainability, and global geopolitical issues. This subject combines elements of your Geography A-Level with insights from Government & Politics and Classical Civilization.

    • You could specialize in geopolitics, climate change, sustainability, or urban development, all of which are highly relevant in consulting and public policy.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Geography, Government & Politics

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Geography

    • Cambridge University – Geography

    • LSE – Geography and Environment

    • UCL – Geography

    • Durham University – Geography

  • Course Structure:
    The degree is divided into physical geography (e.g., climate systems, geology) and human geography (e.g., urbanization, policy development). In later years, you can choose electives based on your interests—such as environmental sustainability, global governance, or geopolitical strategy.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Environmental Consultant

    • Urban Planner

    • Sustainability Consultant

    • Policy Analyst (Environmental or Urban Policy)

    • Global Risk Consultant

    • Consulting (Geopolitical, Environmental)


5. Philosophy and Politics

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    A combination of Philosophy and Politics offers a deeply analytical and ethical understanding of governance and decision-making processes. It’s a fantastic preparation for roles in consulting (especially strategy consulting), policy analysis, or business strategy, where critical thinking and ethical decision-making are essential.

    • Your Philosophy A-Level prepares you for ethical reasoning and problem-solving in complex situations.

    • Politics complements this by giving you insights into political systems, government structures, and policy impacts.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Philosophy and Theology, Government & Politics

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Philosophy and Politics

    • Cambridge University – Philosophy and Politics

    • LSE – Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)

    • UCL – Philosophy and Politics

    • King’s College London – Philosophy and Politics

  • Course Structure:
    In this degree, your first year will introduce you to philosophical theories, political ideologies, and government systems. As you advance, you’ll explore areas like political philosophy, public policy analysis, and the history of political thought. You’ll also have the option to specialize in areas like business ethics or international relations.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Political Consultant

    • Public Policy Advisor

    • Business Strategy Consultant

    • Think Tanks

    • Journalism (Political or Business Reporting)

    • Social Policy Researcher


6. Psychology

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    Your interest in Psychology can be applied to a wide range of careers. In consulting, understanding human behavior is key for roles in organizational psychology, market research, or behavioral economics. It can also contribute to roles in political consulting or policy analysis, where psychological insights can shape better governance strategies.

    • Psychology helps with consumer behavior, decision-making, and understanding societal issues.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Psychology, Philosophy and Theology

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics

    • Cambridge University – Psychological and Behavioural Sciences

    • LSE – Psychology and Behavioural Science

    • UCL – Psychology

    • King’s College London – Psychology

  • Course Structure:
    First-year modules might include cognitive psychology, research methods, social psychology, and biological psychology. Later modules often focus on more specialized areas such as clinical psychology, organizational psychology, or neuropsychology. Research projects are integral to developing practical skills.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Consulting (Behavioral Science Consultant, Organizational Development)

    • Market Research Analyst

    • Human Resources (Employee Engagement, Organizational Development)

    • Social Policy Research

    • Therapy (with further qualifications)

    • Advertising/Marketing


7. History and Politics

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    Studying History and Politics is ideal if you're interested in historical context and its impact on modern political systems. Your background in Classical Civilization gives you a unique perspective on how ancient systems have shaped modern governance and global relations.

    • History helps contextualize the political systems and power structures we see today.

    • Politics provides the practical understanding of government systems and policy-making.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    History, Government & Politics, Classical Civilization

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – History and Politics

    • Cambridge University – History and Politics

    • LSE – History and International Relations

    • UCL – History and Politics

    • Durham University – History and Politics

  • Course Structure:
    First-year topics will include global political history, modern political theory, and historical analysis. Later years might focus on specific historical periods or political movements (e.g., Cold War, European Union history, modern political ideologies). It’s a highly research-driven degree.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Political Consultant

    • Public Policy Analyst

    • Diplomatic Service

    • Think Tanks

    • Political Journalism

    • Public Sector/NGO Policy Roles


8. Classical Civilizations and Politics

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    Classical Civilizations provides insight into ancient governance, sociopolitical structures, and historical narratives, while Politics brings a contemporary understanding of how modern governance works. If you want to study political philosophy, statecraft, and sociopolitical dynamics, this is an ideal path for you.

    • Classical Civilization provides historical foundations for understanding modern governance.

    • Politics connects theory with practical, current-day applications.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Classical Civilization, Government & Politics

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Classics and Philosophy

    • Cambridge University – Classics with Politics

    • UCL – Classics and Politics

    • King’s College London – Classics and Politics

  • Course Structure:
    The first year will provide an introduction to Classical history and political theory. Later years will include studying topics like Greek political thought, Roman governance, and modern political systems. Interdisciplinary learning is a key aspect, blending historical and political analysis.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Consulting (Political Strategy, Policy Consulting)

    • Diplomatic Service

    • Public Policy

    • Academia/Teaching

    • Think Tanks


9. Business Management and Strategy

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    This degree is perfect for a career in consulting. Your Philosophy and Psychology A-Levels will give you a great base for understanding business strategy, market research, and organizational development, all vital skills in consulting. It’s a practical route for understanding the mechanics of business, from leadership to decision-making.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Psychology, Philosophy and Theology, Government & Politics

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Management

    • Cambridge University – Management Studies

    • LSE – Management

    • Imperial College London – Management

    • Warwick University – Business Management

  • Course Structure:
    First-year modules cover management theory, business ethics, marketing, and organizational behavior. In the later years, you’ll dive into strategic management, global business environments, and financial analysis.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Management Consulting

    • Business Analyst

    • Entrepreneurship

    • Marketing Consultant

    • Product Manager


10. Anthropology and Politics

  • Why it’s a Good Fit:
    If you are interested in human behavior at a societal level, Anthropology paired with Politics is an excellent choice. This combination will help you explore the roots of human political behavior, social structures, and cultural influences on governance.

    • Anthropology provides insights into human societies and cultural dynamics, which are essential for understanding political behavior.

    • Politics offers the framework for how these behaviors influence governance.

  • Relevant A-Levels:
    Government & Politics, Psychology

  • Top Universities:

    • Oxford University – Anthropology and Politics

    • Cambridge University – Social and Political Sciences

    • UCL – Anthropology and Politics

    • LSE – Anthropology and Politics

    • Durham University – Anthropology and Politics

  • Course Structure:
    In your first year, you will study foundational theories of human behavior, political systems, and societal structures. Later years will involve more specialized topics such as political anthropology, global politics, and ethnographic studies.

  • Career Pathways:

    • Consulting (Human-Centered Strategy)

    • Policy Analyst

    • Social Researcher

    • Humanitarian Aid (NGOs)

    • Diplomatic Service