Progression Routes

Aim

SCORE commissioned the Centre for Education and Industry at Warwick University to collect evidence and accurate information about subject combinations and qualifications that enable students to progress into Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) degrees. The study was designed to confirm or disprove commonly held perceptions and identify any underlying policy issues for SCORE to address.

The evidence and information provides an up-to-date picture of the current situation and will assist the development of clear and accurate guidance for students, teachers and parents. In particular this research will inform the information made available to young people through the Science Council's ‘Future Morph' careers information website.

Description

Key findings highlighted by the research were:

  • Entry requirement information Multiple sources of information often needed to be consulted before a full picture of entry requirements could be obtained.
  • Grouping of STEM subjects Lack of connection between the relatively small number of subject options available pre-university education and the very large number of options available at university.
  • Mathematics When universities are considering applicants for science, technology and engineering degree courses, mathematics is highly valued as a subject.
  • Subject combination and grades Students wishing to gain entry to STEM degree courses would be best advised to attain at least two science-related subjects.

Next steps for SCORE

The study has highlighted the sheer volume and complexity of information available to young people considering applying to enter higher education. There is a need to improve current communication systems and processes between the stakeholders involved. As a consequence of this work:

  1. SCORE will work with stakeholders to develop key questions for prospective students to consider when applying for higher education courses. These will be disseminated through routes such as the Future Morph careers website.
  2. SCORE will discuss the findings of this report with UCAS, Universities UK and other stakeholders, particularly with reference to the transparency of the admissions process and the ease of access to information.
  3. SCORE partners will support the Royal Society in compiling its ‘state of the nation’ report on transition to STEM higher education in the UK.