Help with University Choices UK/EU

Hi all,

I know that the university debate has been done to death but I would like to ask a few questions regarding courses across the topic of target & semi-target universities for IB, to better structure my options for the upcoming UCAS cycle (& further develop any enquiries to the respective universities).

For some added context, I have really come to enjoy Econ & want to pursue this, in some form, at university. Unfortunately I have not taken A-Level Maths, which does hinder my chances as I look to ideally apply to courses with quantitative elements within them (more than likely through optional modules).

My questions are as follows:

• Given my lack of A-Level Maths, I've considered 'Politics & International Relations'  (Click for modules list) at UCL which does not hold this requirement. (1) I was wondering if this course is going to be viewed in a negative light when recruiting for IB despite being at a target, given the competition in recruiting. Whilst it is intertwined largely with Economics & Development (which are fields of interest), I find Politics standalone modules a load of BS, hence the lack of consideration towards other Politics-focused degrees at UCL. And I fear other people judging my CV probably will, too.

• Further, (2) I know people say course doesn't matter but compared to perhaps a more quantitative degree at a semi-target like 'Financial Economics' at St. Andrews (who will consider me without A-Level Maths) would UCL's 'Politics & International Relations' still be better to select, just for the UCL brand name?

• In terms of semi-targets to fit the final 2 options, (3) I would love to hear some thoughts of what semi-target universities have been sending interns into IB / S&T / PE / CO. I understand Nottingham is gaining a lot of momentum & has been regarded as great in getting their students into springs.

However, Bath is pretty much synonymous with placements from what I hear, and there are good opportunities to even begin a career in PE out of undergrad which is quite crazy. Not sure on how well they do on Springs/Summers however.

(N.B.: For Nottingham I'd apply for Economics & Intl Economics, and Bath would be a course dependent on placement opps - likely Business)

As usual, all thoughts much appreciated.

Thanks!