Russell Group universities are offering this new advice
As more institutions talk about progressing onto Russell Group universities and the range of opportunities they open for students, we need to also ask ourselves whether the traditional list of facilitating subjects has changed and whether you now have a broader range of A-Level and vocational options to select from.
What are the Russell Group universities?
This is a group of 24 universities that hold a world-class reputation as leaders of intensive research and education. As well as maintaining the very best research and learning experience, these universities contribute to a dynamic economy and have a social and cultural impact in the UK and the rest of the world.
Which universities are in the Russell Group?
There are 24 universities in this group, within the UK, all standing by the ethos that people and ideas are the key to meeting global challenges:
- University of Birmingham
2. University of Bristol
3. University of Cambridge
4. Cardiff University
5. Durham University
6. University of Edinburgh
7. University of Exeter
8. University of Glasgow
9. Imperial College London
10. King’s College London
11. University of Leeds
12. University of Liverpool
13. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
14. University of Manchester
15. Newcastle University
16. University of Nottingham
17. University of Oxford
18. Queen Mary University of London
19. Queen’s University Belfast
20. University of Sheffield
21. University of Southampton
22. University College London
23. University of Warwick
24. University of York
What are facilitating subjects and have they changed?
This is a list of traditional academic subjects that was created by the Russell Group universities, aimed at students who were unsure of the degree they wish to pursue. The list was recommended to give students a broader range of degrees to choose from since the subjects were considered essential preparation for many degrees and part of offering advice to those who would otherwise not receive it.
Since recently, however, this has changed due to the fact that many creative subjects and other A-Levels were seeing fewer students enrolling onto them and the misconception that the facilitating subjects were the only A Levels accepted by the Russell Group.
In fact, this group of universities value a rounded education, for example, an aspiring scientist who has taken A-Level Biology and Chemistry and met the entry requirements can also take a language or art subject to complement their studies and give them a broader education. As a result, they have now changed the way they offer advice to students.
What are Russell Group universities advising students now?
In light of the misconception about the initial purpose of the facilitating subjects list, there is now a more sophisticated digital tool called ‘Informed Choices’ to help you explore your options.
This tool will not only allow you to see ‘essential’ subjects that are required for specific degrees and those that will be helpful if taken, but also degrees that will be available to you should you choose subjects without a degree in mind.
Do Russell Groups accept BTEC qualifications?
Ninety-five percent of universities, in general, accept BTEC qualifications. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diplomas are equivalent to 3 A Levels, hence many universities are open to offer places for related degrees including competitive universities within the Russell Group.
For certain degrees, a BTEC is valued due to the practical knowledge and experience gained on the course. The best way to research whether your BTEC would be accepted is to look at the individual degree entry requirements at the university you wish to study at.
Both A Levels and BTECs are valued qualifications and recognised by universities and employers.
