Using and understanding data is becoming increasingly important in many areas of study and employment. Understanding of statistics is a crucial skill, and this A Level aims to give students the tools needed to help them prepare for higher education and the workplace. Statistics might appeal to students wishing to pursue the study of a numerate post-16 subject but not wishing to study pure mathematics. It sits well with subjects such as A level Biology, Psychology, Geography, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Business Studies and Economics. It is also an ideal third A level for aspiring medical students. The emphasis is on using and applying statistics in real world situations. It will also appeal to students who enjoyed the statistics and probability components of GCSE Maths but found the algebra demanding.
Statistics
| Exam Board | Level | Qualification | Assessment Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edexcel | 3 | A level | Examination |
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Course Outline
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Paper 1: Data and Probability (2 hours)
Topics include:-
- Numerical measures
- Graphs and diagrams
- Population and samples
- Binomial distribution
- Normal distribution
- Correlation and linear regression
- Bayes’ theorem,
- Experimental design
- Exponential and Poisson distributions
Paper 2: Statistical Inference (2 hours)
Topics include:-
- Correlation and linear regression
- Introduction to hypothesis testing
- Contingency tables
- One and two sample non-parametric tests
- Experimental design
- Sampling
- Estimates and resampling
- Significance testing
- Confidence intervals
- Paired tests
- Goodness of fit
- Analysis of variance
Paper 3: Statistics in Practice
Questions may be set on any of the topics within the specification, including the Statistical Enquiry Cycle (SEC).
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Career opportunities and further study
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Students can progress from this qualification to:
- a range of different, relevant academic or vocational higher education qualifications
- employment in a relevant sector.
In particular, this qualification provides a foundation in statistics for students seeking to undertake higher education in social sciences, biological sciences or medicine and related health studies.
Students may be surprised at just how many interesting jobs there are for statisticians. There is a long list which includes jobs in forensics, environmental science, the medical industry, market research, the sports industry and the pharmaceutical industry.
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Trips and Visits
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- UKMT Senior Maths Challenge
- Maths Inspiration Lecture
- Maths Fest
- Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Lecture
- Making Maths at Manchester
- Problem Solving Course
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Entry Requirements 2023
You can download provisional entry requirements for courses that start in 2023 below. Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.