A Level Combinations for Physics and Engineering Degrees: Choosing the Right Subjects

If you are considering a degree in Physics or Engineering, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing your A Level subjects.

The right combination can strengthen university applications, keep future options open and provide the skills needed to succeed on demanding degree courses.

However, with so many possible subject combinations available, it can be difficult to know which choices will best support your long-term goals.

In this guide, we'll explore the most common A Level combinations for Physics and Engineering degrees, what universities typically look for and how to choose the subjects that are right for you.

What Do Universities Look For?

Most universities are primarily interested in whether students have the mathematical and scientific foundations required for their chosen course.

For Physics and Engineering degrees, the most important subject is almost always:

Mathematics

In fact, many universities will not consider applications for Physics or Engineering without A Level Mathematics.

For the most competitive universities, such as Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial College London and many Russell Group institutions, Further Mathematics is also highly valued.

Physics is another highly recommended subject because it demonstrates scientific understanding and provides essential preparation for many degree-level topics.

The Strongest A Level Combination

Physics, Mathematics and Further Mathematics

This is often considered the strongest combination for both Physics and Engineering applicants.

Benefits include:

• Excellent preparation for university-level mathematics

• Strong support for A Level Physics concepts

• Highly regarded by top universities

• Demonstrates strong analytical ability

  
  

This combination is particularly useful for students considering:

• Physics

• Engineering

• Mathematics

• Computer Science

• Data Science

• 
  

Students applying to the most competitive courses will often find Further Mathematics advantageous.

Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry

This is another extremely popular combination.

Chemistry develops:

• Problem-solving skills

• Mathematical reasoning

• Scientific investigation

• Analytical thinking

  
  

It is particularly useful for students interested in:

• Chemical Engineering

• Materials Engineering

• Biomedical Engineering

• Physics

• Natural Sciences

  
  

Many universities view this as an excellent all-round STEM combination.

Physics, Mathematics and Computer Science

As technology continues to develop, Computer Science is becoming an increasingly popular choice alongside Physics and Mathematics.

This combination helps students develop:

• Logical thinking

• Programming skills

• Computational problem solving

• Data analysis abilities

• 
  

It can be particularly useful for:

• Software Engineering

• Computer Engineering

• Robotics

• Artificial Intelligence

• Computational Physics

  
  

Students interested in modern engineering disciplines often find Computer Science highly relevant.

Physics, Mathematics and Design & Technology

For students who enjoy practical design and problem solving, Design & Technology can be a valuable option.

Benefits include:

• Product design experience

• Engineering design principles

• Manufacturing knowledge

• Project-based learning

  
  

This combination may appeal to students considering:

• Mechanical Engineering

• Civil Engineering

• Product Design Engineering

• Manufacturing Engineering

  
  

Do You Need Further Mathematics?

Many students ask whether Further Mathematics is essential.

The answer depends on where you hope to apply.

For many universities:

• Mathematics + Physics is sufficient.

  
  

However, for highly competitive courses at universities such as Cambridge, Oxford and Imperial:

• Further Mathematics is often strongly recommended.

• Some applicants may be disadvantaged without it if their school offers the subject.

  
  

If Further Mathematics is available at your school and you enjoy Mathematics, it is worth serious consideration.

Should You Take Four A Levels?

Some students choose:

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Further Mathematics

• Chemistry or Computer Science

While this can be beneficial, universities generally place greater importance on strong grades than on taking additional subjects.

Three excellent grades are usually more valuable than four average grades.

Students should only choose four A Levels if they feel confident they can manage the workload effectively.

Common Mistakes When Choosing A Levels

Students sometimes make choices based solely on what friends are studying or what they believe universities want to see.

Instead, try to avoid:

• Choosing subjects you strongly dislike

• Taking four A Levels unnecessarily

• Ignoring university entry requirements

• Focusing only on prestige rather than suitability

  
  

The best subject combination is usually one that balances:

• University requirements

• Personal strengths

• Long-term interests

• Academic enjoyment

  
  

Final Thoughts

For most students considering Physics or Engineering, the safest and strongest foundation is:

Mathematics + Physics

Beyond that, subjects such as Further Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science and Design & Technology can all add value depending on your interests and future goals.

Most importantly, choose subjects that you enjoy and are likely to perform well in. Strong grades, curiosity and genuine enthusiasm for your chosen field will always strengthen a university application.

Need Advice About A Level Physics?

At Physics Mastery Academy, we support students studying GCSE and A Level Physics, helping them build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills and prepare for competitive university applications.

Whether you're choosing A Levels, preparing for university entrance exams or aiming for top grades in Physics, we're here to help.

Get in touch to find out more about our A Level Physics tuition and university admissions support.