As tutoring experts, we often get asked about what GCSEs are needed for certain career paths. So, we thought we’d take a run down of the ones we get asked about the most to help you or your child achieve that dream job.
What GCSEs do you need to be a nurse?
Nursing continues to be a very popular career- brought into focus due the role played by nurses during the pandemic. To become a nurse, you need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, Maths, and Science.
What GCSEs do you need to be a dentist?
Three’s a huge shortage of dentists in the UK, so it’s a great career choice. You will need at least seven GCSEs including Science, English Language and Maths.
It’s wise to take all three sciences including Biology and Chemistry. Degree courses are competitive, so aim for grade 6/B or higher in all subjects. A levels will be Maths and Science based so bear this in mind when choosing GCSE options.
What GCSEs do you need to be a midwife?
You usually need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) including English, Maths, and Science to become a midwife. You then need to achieve 2 or 3 A levels or a level 3 diploma.
What GCSEs do you need to be a doctor?
Medical degree courses require at least seven GCSEs including Science, English Language and Maths. It’s wise to take all three sciences including Biology and Chemistry. Courses are competitive, so you should be aiming for grade 6/B or higher in all subjects.
What GCSEs do you need to be a psychologist?
You’ll need to achieve five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including Maths, English Language and Science. Statistics is also a useful GCSE to have.
What GCSEs do you need to be a forensic scientist?
Forensic scientists typically need 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including English and Maths. You’ll need a science at A-level, so Biology or Chemistry GCSE is preferred, and triple science is desirable.
What GCSEs do you need to be a teacher?
You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, Maths, and Science. If you want to teach primary or early years you will definitely need a GCSE grade C/4 or equivalent in a science subject.
What GCSEs do you need to be a lawyer?
To study law, you'll need at least five GCSEs (or equivalent Level 2 qualifications) at grade 4/C or above, including Maths, English Language and Science. Courses are competitive, so you should aim for the highest grades possible.
Most Universities don’t have specific requirements for A-level subjects but check your preferred University anyway just in case.
Next steps
We suggest “working backwards” before you take your GCSE options. If you know the career you want, then research the universities that offer the courses and check the GCSEs and A- levels they are asking for.
It always pays to be well informed and plan early so that you don’t miss out on the career of your dreams!
