Deciding which university degree to study based on the sixth-form programme you’ve completed is a major consideration during the pre-university stage. Upon completing the second year of the Bachillerato, it is time to look to the future: passing the EvAU and choosing the right degree course. This decision marks the start of a new phase as a university student, which is the prelude to our future professional life.
Although this decision may seem complicated, with the right guidance and by analysing our interests and talents, we can clear up any doubts and make the best choice.
What types of Bachillerato are there?
The Bachillerato marks the start of academic specialisation, which means it directly influences the choice of future university degree. In Spain, there are currently five streams of the Bachillerato. These are the Science and Technology Baccalaureate, the Humanities and Social Sciences Baccalaureate, the Arts Baccalaureate, the General Baccalaureate and the International Baccalaureate. Each of these pathways offers different compulsory and optional subjects that allow students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.
Science and Technology Baccalaureate
The Science and Technology Baccalaureate is ideal for students with a strong interest in science, mathematics and technology. This stream not only opens the door to university studies in scientific and technical fields, but also fosters analytical and problem-solving skills that are valuable in any professional field.
Core subjects
The Science and Technology A-Level Programme includes a number of core subjects that all students must take. These core subjects include:
- Spanish Language and Literature
- Foreign Language (English)
- Philosophy
- History of Spain
Subject-specific modules
The specific subjects in this curriculum are designed to provide a solid foundation in science and technology. Some of the most notable subjects include:
- Mathematics
- Physics and Chemistry
- Biology
- Technical Drawing
Elective subjects
Some common options are:
- Industrial Technology
- Geology
- Economics
A-Levels in Humanities and Social Sciences
The Humanities and Social Sciences A-Level programme is aimed at students interested in gaining a better understanding of human behaviour, culture and society. This programme offers a well-rounded education covering subjects ranging from history and literature to economics and geography, providing a solid foundation for a wide variety of university degree courses.
Core subjects
As with other streams, the Humanities and Social Sciences A-Level programme includes core subjects:
- Spanish Language and Literature
- Foreign Language (English)
- Philosophy
- History of Spain
Specialist subjects
Some of the most notable subjects include:
- Contemporary World History
- World Literature
- Latin and Greek
- Economics
- Geography
Elective subjects
In addition to the core and specialised subjects, students can choose optional subjects that allow them to explore areas of particular interest in greater depth. Some common options include:
- Psychology
- Art History
- Mathematics Applied to the Social Sciences
Arts A-Levels
The Arts A-Level programme is an educational option that opens up a world of creativity and knowledge across a range of disciplines. This programme not only provides a solid foundation in core subjects, but also offers the opportunity to explore specific areas and optional modules in line with your personal interests and future aspirations.
Core subjects
The core subjects in this stream are essential for all students:
- Language and Literature
- History
- Mathematics
- Foreign Language
Subject-specific modules
Specific subjects vary depending on the educational institution and the curriculum. However, they usually include subjects such as:
- Art History
- Technical Drawing
- Music
- Philosophy
- Audiovisual Culture
Elective Subjects
One of the most appealing features of the Arts A-Level programme is the range of optional subjects. These allow students to tailor their learning to their particular interests and abilities. Some options may include subjects such as:
- Graphic Design
- Drama
- Photography
- Comparative Literature
General A-Levels
This programme combines core, specialised and optional subjects, offering a well-rounded education that prepares young people to tackle a range of challenges and explore their personal interests.
Core Subjects
The main aim of these subjects is to provide a solid foundation in the basic knowledge essential for understanding the world around us and developing general academic skills:
- Language and Literature
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- History
- Geography
- Physical Education
Specific subjects
Specific subjects vary depending on the educational institution and the curriculum. However, they usually include subjects such as:
- Art History
- Technical Drawing
- Music
- Philosophy
- Audiovisual Culture
Elective Subjects
One of the most appealing features of the Arts A-Level programme is the range of optional subjects. Some options may include subjects such as:
- Graphic Design
- Drama
- Photography
- Comparative Literature
International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognised educational programme that offers students a comprehensive and rigorous educational experience. This programme focuses on academic development from an international perspective.
Common Subjects
The IB offers a set of core subjects designed to provide students with a solid foundation in various areas of knowledge:
- Language and Literature
- Additional Language
- Science
- Mathematics
- History
- Geography
- Economics
- Psychology
Specific subjects
Specific subjects vary depending on the educational institution and the curriculum. However, they usually include subjects such as:
- Art History
- Technical Drawing
- Music
- Philosophy
- Audiovisual Culture
Elective subjects
These subjects may include:
- Visual Arts
- Music
- Drama
- Computer Science
What career opportunities are available for each type of sixth-form programme?
Nowadays, we are fortunate to have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing which university degree to study. The range is extensive and covers both traditional fields of study and new ones that are emerging in response to societal demand. These new options prepare students for careers that were unthinkable a few years ago and are now in high demand by employers.
However, within this vast array of options, it is crucial to be focused when making a decision. We must find the degree programme that best suits us, one that nurtures our talents and guides us towards professional fulfilment.
The Science and Technology A-Level programme offers numerous career paths. Students who choose this pathway are well prepared for careers in:
- Engineering (Architecture , Civil , Computer Science , Industrial , Aerospace , Mechanical , etc.)
- Health Sciences (Medicine , Nursing , Dentistry , Biotechnology , Pharmacy , Psychology , Veterinary Medicine , etc.)
- Pure Sciences (Mathematics , Physics , etc.)
- Business and Technology (Business Administration and Management , Marketing , Artificial Intelligence , Business Analytics , etc.)
As for the type of sixth-form programme focused on the Humanities and Social Sciences, students can choose degree programmes such as:
- Law
- International Relations
- Education
- Philology
- etc
As for the Arts A-Level programme, it not only opens the door to a degree in Fine Arts, but also to other equally interesting fields such as Music , Graphic Design, Interior Design or Fashion Design, and the Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage, amongst others.
It is important to note that, even if you choose a Science A-Level programme, you can later opt for a degree in the humanities without any problems. There is always time to redirect our academic path towards the option that is right for us! This is one of the advantages offered by private universities.
Which vocational training or higher-level qualification should you study, depending on your type of A-levels?
One of the most interesting options after sixth form is to opt for a higher-level vocational training course. But do you know which one is most suitable depending on the type of sixth form you’ve completed? We’ll explain it all in this section!
If you’ve completed the Science and Technology A-Levels, you have plenty of options in the field of vocational training.
- Higher-Level Technician in Web Application Development
- Higher-Level Technician in Multi-Platform Application Development
- Higher-Level Technician in Networked IT Systems Administration
- Higher-Level Technician in Laboratory Analysis and Quality Control
- Higher Technician in Clinical and Biomedical Laboratory
- Higher Technician in Industrial Automation and Robotics
The A-Levels in Humanities and Social Sciences are ideal for further study in fields such as business administration, tourism or communications.
- Higher Technician in Administration and Finance
- Higher Technician in Marketing and Advertising
- Higher Technician in Social Integration
- Higher Technician in Early Years Education
The Arts Baccalaureate prepares students for higher education in artistic and creative fields, such as 3D Animation, Graphic Design and Production Management, and Fine Arts and Interior Design.
The General Baccalaureate offers a versatile education that enables students to progress to higher degrees in areas such as Social Integration , Healthcare Documentation and Administration, and Forestry and Environmental Management.
The International A-Level Programme, recognised worldwide, opens the door to higher education in International Trade, Construction Projects, and Sales and Retail Space Management.
Frequently asked questions about types of A-levels
Can you study Business Administration and Management (ADE) with a Science Baccalaureate?
Of course you can! There’s no problem studying Business Administration and Management (BAM) if you’ve completed a Science Baccalaureate. In fact, many science students choose this degree programme. A science A-level provides you with a solid foundation in mathematics, which is very useful for the subjects of accounting, finance and economics that you’ll study in Business Administration and Management. What’s more, the analytical skills and critical thinking you develop in the science stream are highly valued in the business world. So, if you’re passionate about the world of business and management, go for it!
Which A-level programme should you choose if you want to study medicine?
If you’re thinking of studying medicine , it’s best to opt for the Science and Technology A-Level programme. This programme will prepare you with key subjects such as biology, chemistry and maths, which are essential for medical studies. It will also help you develop a deep understanding of scientific concepts and equip you with the skills needed to tackle a university degree in medicine. But remember, the most important thing is your interest and dedication. If medicine is your calling, choose the path that best prepares you to achieve your dream!
The Baccalaureate represents a crucial milestone in every student’s academic and professional life, paving the way for future university careers and employment opportunities. From the streams of Science and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, to Arts and the International Baccalaureate, each pathway offers a unique range of subjects and specialisation options. This diversity not only allows students to explore their interests and talents, but also prepares them to face the challenges of the modern job market. The most important thing is to make an informed decision, guided by your own interests, to build a fulfilling and successful professional future. Make your A-Levels the springboard to your dreams and goals!
