Higher/A-Level Subject choices

There is no disadvantage whatsoever in taking quirky combinations of subjects at Higher or A-level. For example, some applicants choose to study science alongside humanities subjects for as long as possible. We feel this demonstrates intellectual agility and we look upon it favourably.

Conversely, candidates who take too many closely related subjects may well be passed over in favour of those showing greater intellectual breadth. Remember that the Scottish degree system requires students to take three different subjects in their first two years before specialising, so we are looking for applicants who will both appreciate and benefit from this system.

'Closely related subjects' does not refer to those of similar type - e.g. two foreign languages - but to those which could be regarded as different facets of a single general area of study, e.g. English Literature, English Language; Drama; Theatre Studies; Film Studies; Media Studies.

Note that there is no problem with taking two such closely-related subjects alongside two additional distinct subjects. This restriction is less likely to affect candidates with Highers, though it should certainly be borne in mind if only four Highers are taken.