A Levels
About A Levels
If you’re hoping to go to university and usually perform well in exams, A Levels could be the right choice for you. They offer the opportunity to study a range of subjects and gain the academic knowledge and skills that are highly regarded by universities and employers.
We offer a range of A Level subjects to suit most interests and career paths. Most students choose to take three A Levels over two years, although it may be possible for some students to study four.
Our A Level courses are taught at College Green Centre.
On this page you’ll find information about our A Level pathways, advice on choosing your A Level subjects, how our A Level courses are assessed, entry requirements and details of how the college can support you with your progression to university.
A Level Pathways
You can choose any three A Levels from any pathway, as long as the proposed combination works with your timetable.
You will apply for one pathway, then choose your subjects at your course selection meeting. Our five pathways are designed to help you choose a combination of subjects that complement each other and will help you towards your career goals, but these are just a guide.
In the first few weeks at college, we’ll check in to make sure you’re still happy with your subject choices, and if not, help you to transfer to a different course.
A Level Pathways
You do not have to choose three subjects from the same pathway; you can choose any three A Levels. Our pathways are just a guide to demonstrate subjects that complement each other.
Business and Law Pathway
Business, Law, Politics, Psychology, Computer science, Maths Business and Law Courses – Creative Pathway You do not have to choose three subjects from the same pathway; you can choose any […]
Science Pathway
Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Maths, Biology, Computer science, Further maths Science Courses – Creative Pathway You do not have to choose three subjects from the same pathway; you can choose any […]
Social Science Pathway
Sociology, Psychology, History, Politics Courses – Social Science Pathway You do not have to choose three subjects from the same pathway; you can choose any three A Levels. Our pathways […]
Humanities Pathway
Sociology, History, Geography, English language, English literature, Media studies, Politics, Film
Creative Pathway
Art, Photography, Maths, Computer science, Media studies, Sociology, English language, English literature, Film
How to Choose Your Subjects
We will offer you advice and discuss your options at your course application meeting, but when choosing your subjects, it’s helpful to think about:
- What subjects do you currently enjoy at school?
- What subjects are you good at?
- Is there a subject you’d be interested in learning about that you didn’t study at GCSE?
- Are there any subjects you need to study to progress to your desired university course or career?
How Will You Learn?
A Levels are studied over two years. Most students study three A Levels. You will be taught at College by specialist lecturers, and where possible your learning will be enhanced with trips, visits, external speakers and work experience or real work projects. Subjects that include practical work will have access to specialist facilities and resources.
Most A Levels are assessed using a mix of examinations and coursework, but for accurate assessment information, have a look at the course pages for your chosen subjects.
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs grade 9-4 (A*-C) or equivalent, including 4 (C) or higher in English Language and Maths
Some subjects have additional entry requirements. We can help you explore your options if these requirements prevent you from studying a subject that is central to your progression route
Home-educated students with no formal qualifications will be assessed individually
Progressing to University
One of the great things about studying your A Levels at City of Bristol College is that you can choose to stay with us for your university-level studies. The College’s Careers and Advice team offer advice and guidance on future careers and university options.
These include:
- One-to-one careers guidance and tutorials
- Offer information, advice and guidance
- Career Fairs where you have an opportunity to speak to employers, universities and training providers
- UCAS tutorials on how to apply for university and visits to annual UCAS fairs
- Support with university funding
V Levels: Coming in 2027
Alongside our A Level pathways, City of Bristol College will introduce new V Levels from September 2027.
V Levels are a new qualification that combine the breadth of A Levels with applied, real-world experience. They are Level 3 qualifications that can be studied alongside A Levels and T Levels, supporting progression to university, higher-level apprenticeships and skilled careers.
