Take your academic learning to the next level.
Take your academic learning to the next level.
A Level qualifications are all about taking your knowledge and understanding from your GCSEs to the next level. You have the option to study three different A Level courses over the course of two years. Our A Level courses offer a variety of options to suit your interests and career goals. As a nationally and internationally recognised qualification, A Levels will help you achieve your career aspirations both in the UK and abroad.
There is no right or wrong way to learn! If you perform well in exams, are keen to develop your academic skills and want the option to study three different subjects, then A Levels are the right option for you. If you’re not sure and want some information on the different types of study you can view our guide to A Levels, T Levels, Vocational Courses and Apprenticeships.
With nearly 40 different A Level courses at HSDC, you might find it hard to pick! One of the good things about A Levels is that you don’t have to take subjects you don’t enjoy. You get to pick three A Level courses that you’re good at, interested in, and will help you progress onto the career or university course you want.
If you know what you’re interested in studying at university, it helps to be prepared. Certain university courses will ask for specific A Level subjects, so look up the entry requirements and check whether your choices match up.
If you haven’t studied something before or just want to find out more about the subject, our website, prospectus and open evening events are a great way to find out more about what you’ll learn on the course. We also have a range of masterclasses and taster days available through most local schools, so speak to your teacher if you’re interested in finding out more about a specific subject.
As well as our comprehensive range of A Levels at the Havant Campus, we also offer subsidiary diplomas. A subsidiary diploma can be studied in place of one of your A Levels and are a great way to learn work-based industry skills whilst gaining UCAS points. They are equivalent to one A Level and great for those wishing to progress to employment or higher education.
Subsidiary diplomas available include:
For example, you could study Criminology Level 3 Diploma, alongside Law A Level and English Language A Level.
As an Alton College student, did you know you can study both A Level courses and Vocational courses at the same time?
You can choose a mixed programme of exam and coursework-based subjects to suit your particular learning style. We know that some of you thrive with timed formal exams, in which case A Levels are perfect for you. Others find success with coursework or assignment-based assessment in which case Vocational courses are ideal.
Many students, however, benefit from a mixture – some A Levels with end of course exams, some more practical and/or coursework based Vocational subjects – the choice is yours at Alton College.
For example, some Alton College students choose to study two A Levels with 100% assessment in exams at the end of the second year, such as Mathematics or the sciences, as part of a mixed programme. For their third subject, they select a course with continual assessment throughout and minimal exams such as Performing Arts or Criminology. This means their workload is more evenly distributed throughout the two years and there is less pressure in the build-up towards final exams in the second year.
You don’t have to study two A Levels and one Vocational course – you could even study two Vocational courses and an A Level or three Vocational subjects. Speak to our student recruitment team to see what could work for you.
Here is the list of Vocational courses you could study alongside A Levels as part of the Mixed Programme at Alton College:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How many A Levels can I take at HSDC? | At HSDC, most students take three A Levels. This is the recommended number because it provides a manageable workload while still meeting university entry requirements. It is possible to take four A Levels, but students should be aware that the workload is significantly higher. Taking four subjects can be challenging and is usually only recommended for students who are confident they can manage the additional academic demands. |
| Can I complete my A Levels online or remotely? | A Levels at HSDC are delivered in person at our college campuses. At present, A Level courses are not available to study online or remotely, as they involve classroom teaching, practical learning, and support from specialist subject tutors. |
| What is the difference between an A Level course and a vocational course (T Level, BTEC, Level 2 & 3 Courses)? | A Levels are academic qualifications that build on the knowledge and understanding you gained at GCSE level. They help develop analytical, research, and independent study skills and are traditionally designed to prepare students for university. Vocational Courses focus more on practical learning and coursework-based assessment. At HSDC, some students choose to study a mixture of A Levels and vocational subjects to create a programme that suits their learning style. |
| Can I combine A Levels with vocational courses? | Yes. At Alton College, students can study a mixed programme that includes both A Levels and vocational courses. For example, some students choose to study two A Levels alongside one vocational subject, while others may combine different coursework-based and exam-based courses. This approach allows students to create a programme that suits their strengths and learning preferences. These courses are known as ALMPs (or A Level Mixed Programme Courses). For more information, please see the Mixed Programme at Alton College page. |
| How do I choose the right A Levels for my future career? | When choosing your A Levels, it’s important to think about the subjects you enjoy, what you are good at, and your future plans. If you are planning to go to university, it is helpful to check the entry requirements for the course you are interested in, as some degrees require specific A Level subjects. You can also explore course information through the college website, prospectus, and open evening events, which provide more details about what you will study and the skills you will develop. |